1934 Rolls-Royce 20 / 25 HP Sport Saloon

This Rolls-Royce 20/25 Sport Saloon has been restored and includes a rare factory-conducted chassis renumbering, unique Freestone and Webb coachwork, and an early 1980s refurbishment. It rides on a long wheelbase chassis and is the second example of the D2 series of 20/25 cars. It was sold on March 1st of 1934 to Grimchaw Leather & Company on behalf of G.S. Houseman of Alnmouth, England. On June 14th, the car was delivered to coachbuilder Freestone & Webb of London. It was given a close-coupled sport saloon body with sweeping fenders. It was delivered to its owner briefly before returning to the factory for upgrades. It was 'modernized' by fitting governor controls, shock absorbers, and a new type carburetor. It was re-designated as chassis number GYD 42. By 1954, the car had come into the care of J.W. Cummin of Chathill. At some point thereafter, it was exported to the United States.

The current owner acquired the car in the late 1970s in disrepair. It was treated to an extensive restoration that was completed in August of 1981 and cost over $159,000. Since the work was completed, the car has never been exhibited.

Power comes from a 3,680cc overhead valve six-cylinder engine breathing through a single 2-Jet carburetor. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel servo-assisted drum brakes.

In 2013, the vehicle was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's Scottsdale, Arizona auction. It was estimated to sell for $80,000 - $100,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, it had been sold for $82,500, including the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2013