1911 Rolls-Royce 40/50 HP Silver Ghost Roi-des-Belge Tourer

The Rolls-Royce model first introduced in 1906 was not initially referred to as a Silver Ghost, but rather the '40/50', referring to its 40 taxable HP and 50 true HP. Silver Ghosts became known not only for their incredible reliability but also for their virtually silent operation, smoothness and absence of vibration. It has 40/50 hp, 7428cc L-head six-cylinder engine with a three-speed manual transmission, solid front ale, live rear axle, two-wheel mechanical brakes and a 142.5-inch wheelbase. In 1958 it was bought and imported to the United States. Finished in garnet red, with black trim and gold pin striping, the car is trimmed in rich tan leather with tan top, tonneau and side curtains, it is simply one of the most striking Silver Ghosts extant. The coachwork is accented with flawlessly restored brass bright work.

Quite simply, a Silver Ghost didn't wear out and as Rolls-Royce said, 'The quality will remain when the price is forgotten.' Simply stated in a 1911 catalogue, 'The Rolls-Royce Car is bought by people who will have the best and nothing but the best.' The company unabashedly claimed The Best Car in the World as its mantra.

This Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost has a period Roi-des-Belges Tourer body with coachwork that is believed to be by Alford & Alder. It is an RROC national Meet Best in Show, AACA Senior National Award Winner. It has been given a professional restoration since new and remains in excellent condition in modern times.

The car is powered by a 7428cc inline, L-Head, six-cylinder engine (number 74) with a single updraft carburetor, developing 48 horsepower at 1000 RPM. The engine is coupled to a three-speed manual gearbox and braking is comprised of two-wheel drum brakes. The suspension on this right-hand-drive vehicle consists of semi-elliptic leaf springs on the front and three-quarter elliptic on the rear.

The car has all bright-work in brass, a Boa bulb horn and Smith's speedometer and trip odometer. Additional features consist of a tilting windscreen, a full set of spring gaiters and a complete set of engine and transmission pans.

In 2009, this Rolls-Royce was offered for sale at Gooding & Company's Auction in Pebble Beach. The lot was estimated to sell for $600,000 - $700,000. As bidding came to a close, the lot had been sold for the sum of $682,000, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2010