1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II Saloon

The auction car is from the penultimate year of Series II Silver Cloud production, and thus retains a twin headlight nose treatment first seen on the original 1955 Series I model–the SC III, produced from 1963-1966, looked much the same but adopted a new, quad-lamp setup.

One of 2,417 SC II’s built, the car is a standard wheelbase, standard steel body example.

Though still suitably conservative, the car’s relatively bright two-tone silver over burgundy color scheme helps distinguish it from many of its less adventurously specced sisters.

Long-wheelbase models stretched 127 inches from hub to hub, and standard length cars, such as the auction example, measured 123 inches in the same dimension.

Rich burgundy hides complement the exterior quite nicely, and rear seat accommodations are luxuriously roomy even in standard wheelbase form. Air-conditioning is present, and cool air is routed towards back passengers with neat semi-transparent fiberglass tubes emerging from the rear parcel shelf.

Note the integral, C-pillar mounted vanity mirrors and traditional seatback wooden picnic tables.

Though introduced years earlier in 1959, a V8-powered Rolls-Royce was still a novel concept when the auction car was built, and this is underscored by the engine’s tight fit–the space beneath its piano-hinged lid was clearly designed with a straight-six in mind.

The need to remove a wheel to access spark plugs is a small concession for substantial improvements in power and torque over Series I cars, however, and soon even RR purists were won over by the V8. It was last seen in twin-turbo form powering the magnificent 2020 Bentley Mulsanne.

The auction car is sold with limited documentation.

With something approaching 220 hp, a world-class automatic transmission, and a legendarily smooth, quiet cabin, later production Silver Clouds were powerful, refined cars, as well as some of the last standard production Rolls-Royces ever built atop a separate chassis.

Estimated $30,000 - $50,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.