1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Vignale Sedan

The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith was the company's first post-war model. It made its debut in late 1946 and given a chassis similar to that of the Silver Dawn and Mark VI Bentley, though with a 7-inch longer wheelbase. The Wraith was designed to accept the traditional coachbuilt bodies rather than the Mark VI's 'standard steel' bodywork. Only the bore and stroke dimensions were shared with the pre-war overhead-valve Wraith engine, the major advantage of this 'F-head' layout being its large valves and generous water jacketing around the valve seats. Production of the short-wheelbase Wraith continued until 1952, with a total of 1,144 examples built. The long-wheelbase version continued until the introduction of the Phantom V in 1959, by which time 639 chassis had been completed.

This particular example was ordered by Joseph J. Maschuch, Esq. of Maplewood, New Jersey (incorrectly noted as New York on the build sheets). The long-wheelbase Wraith was given a one-off body by Vignale. In the front, the grille is flanked by a pair of sealed beam P100s while a smaller set of hooded foglights capped the front fenders. The rear window and C-pillar were swept back and the rear window was retractable. The cabin necessitated a long rear overhang to accommodate the full sized trunk.

Under the hood, the block, head, dynamo, starter, air cleaner, carburetor, and inlet manifold were all painted green. As per the original owner's request, all visible pipes under the hood were to be chrome plated. Inside, the car was fitted with an air conditioning system. There is fine cabinetry in the rear compartment which concealed a full bar and a center mounted television. It was given a Becker Mexico radio and all of the windows were power operated, as was the front seat. The chauffeur's compartment was trimmed in black leather, while the rear compartment was given grey broadcloth. Under the right rear passenger seat is a toilet with a gold painted toilet seat, although it is understood this was only used as a champagne cooler.

The current caretaker has cared for the car for over a decade. It retains the original interior but has been cosmetically refreshed over the years.

Vignale was famous for clothing numerous Ferraris and other Italian sports cars, but this Rolls-Royce is the only one for which the Italian carrozzeria would ever pen the coachwork.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2014