1938 Rolls-Royce 25/30HP Custom Boattail Speedster

This Rolls-Royce Boattail Speedster began life as a four-door sedan. During World War II and the bombing of London in 1939, this Rolls-Royce was given to the war effort and converted to an ambulance/hearse. By the mid-1980s, the Rolls-Royce was in Los Angeles and, at the time, in very poor condition. Its body was then removed, restored, and displayed as it had been originally delivered by the factory. About twenty-five years later, the car was given all new coachwork as a 'special speedster.' The work commenced in January 2011 and required moving the engine, transmission, and firewall rearward 18 inches, improving the car's balance and handling. The emergency brake was moved to the outside of the body, and new factory rods and inserts were installed. To improve strength and reduce weight by over 2,500 lbs, the Rolls-Royce was given unibody construction. Twin hinges replaced the previous single hood arrangement, matching the shape of the Rolls-Royce radiator.

Since the restoration was completed, the Speedster has been shown in competition 15 times, winning top awards in all outings, including Pasadena Art School of Design People's Choice, Caruso Concours d'Elegance People's Choice and Grand National Roadster Show.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2024