1962 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II

An increase in competition from faster rivals and the end of the company's six-cylinder lifespan spurred the replacement of the original Silver Cloud model with the Silver Cloud II. Beneath the bonnet was a 380 cubic-inch V8 engine built to a sophisticated design and employing numerous lightweight components. It was paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and came with power-assisted steering, power brakes, whitewall tires, a radio, and updated climate-control systems.

Introduced in the autumn of 1959, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II and Bentley S2 appeared externally unchanged from their 'Cloud and S-Type' predecessors. Both were ultimately very successful both at home and abroad, remaining in production until the autumn of 1962.

Before the onset of World War II, Rolls-Royce added an 'entry-level' model known as the Twenty to its lineup. The Twenty was intended as an 'owner-driver' vehicle while its larger Silver Ghost sibling was often built with the intent of being chauffeur driven. The Twenty was succeeded by the 20/25, the 25/30, and the Wraith during the 1930s, and following World War II, the company unveiled the Silver Wraith.

The Silver Wraith was soon joined by a top-of-the-line model called the Phantom IV, built for Heads of State, and the Silver Dawn, a full-size luxury car with factory coachwork. The Silver Wraith had a wheelbase that was seven inches longer than the Silver Dawn and was one of the final Rolls-Royce vehicles built as a 'chassis only' intended for bespoke coachwork. Most of the Silver Wraiths wore 'formal' limousine designs.

The Silver Cloud was introduced in the mid-1950s and served as an eventual replacement for both the Silver Dawn and Silver Wraith. It was designed to carry 'standard' body designs yet remained suitable for bespoke coachwork. Its chassis was a steel box-section platform that was welded together, with body-on-frame construction and an overall length of 212 inches and width of 75-inches. The turning circle was 41 feet and 8 inches. The suspension was independent at the front with coil springs while the rear used a semi-elliptical spring arrangement. The hydraulic brakes had Rolls-Royce mechanical servos with 11-inch drums, and twin brake master cylinders were added from April of 1956 forward. That same year, air conditioning and power steering were added to the list of options. Most of the bodies were built to a J.P. Blatchley design by the Pressed Steel Company. The body shell was formed from steel while the doors, bonnet, and boot lid were built from lightweight aluminum-based alloy.

The engine was a 4.9-liter six-cylinder unit with inlet over exhaust valves and offering approximately 155 horsepower at 4,000 RPM. The engine was paired with a four-speed General Motors-designed Hydramatic transmission. Twin SU carburetors were added in September of 1957, along with a long-wheelbase version which added four-additional inches to the length, resulting in improved leg space for the rear-seat passengers.

The Silver Cloud was introduced in 1955 and remained in production through 1958 with 2,238 examples built.

The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II

The Silver Cloud II was produced from 1959 through 1962 with 2,417 units built. The distinguishable feature of the Silver Cloud II, compared to its predecessor, was its 6.2-liter V8 engine, offering improvements in both horsepower and torque. Power steering was now standard and electrically operated windows were now optional. Both short- and long-wheelbase versions remained, measuring 123- and 127-inches respectively.

The new wet-lined eight-cylinder 6.2-liter (6,230cc) aluminum-alloy engine with two 1.75-inch SU carburetors and developing approximately 185 horsepower. The engine was both wider and shorter than the 'six' it replaced, and to accommodate the engine's dimensions, the steering box was relocated from inside to outside of the chassis frame being the most obvious alteration to the previous arrangements. It was paired with Rolls-Royce's own four-speed automatic transmission.

As well as the factory-bodied cars, bespoke creations from coachbuilders James Young and the now merged firm of H. J. Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd (now Rolls-Royce-owned) continued to be available on the 'Cloud II chassis. Since the factory did not offer a convertible or drophead coupe, a coach-built car remained the only option for Rolls-Royce clientele who preferred fresh air motoring. Available in both Rolls-Royce and Bentley forms, H. J. Mulliner's two-door drophead coupé (Design No. 7504) was the most popular, a total of 107 being built on the Cloud II/S2 standard-wheelbase chassis. H. J. Mulliner's convertible was priced some 30% above the standard Silver Cloud II four-door saloon, which was already one of the world's most expensive cars.

Minor improvements were made during the Silver Cloud II production lifespan, including updates to the ventilation system. Blue instrument lighting was added to the interior in 1961, along with a handbrake warning light and a combined indicator/headlamp flasher switch. In May of 1962, a redesigned rear light assembly was introduced, and in August of that year, single sealed-beam headlamps were added.

The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

The third and final iteration of the Silver Cloud line was introduced in October of 1962 at the Paris Salon. Perhaps the most visual change was a four-headlamp (two on each side) layout replacing the previous single headlamp on each side. The engine received 2-inch SU carburetors, a compression increase to 9:1, and a nitride hardened crankshaft. Rolls-Royce announced that engine power output had increased by 'perhaps 7%.' The improvements to the engine and an overall weight reduction by a little over 100 kg (220 lbs) gave the Silver Cloud III a boost in performance over the previous model. The engine was paired with a GM-sourced Hydramatic used under license.

The Silver Cloud III wore both 'standard' and bespoke coachwork. Production lasted through 1966 with a total of 2,044 examples built. The total Silver Cloud production, from 1955 through 1966, was 7,372 units.

by Dan Vaughan

Drophead Coupe by Mulliner
Chassis number: LSVB27

There were just 2,717 examples of the Silver Cloud II chassis produced, of which most rested on the short 123-inch wheelbase. Of this, just 107 examples were clothed in H.J. Mulliner coachwork in drophead Coupe configuration.

This Silver Cloud II Drophead Coupe wears coachwork by H.J. Mulliner. Its early history is not fully known; it was acquired by Richard Gorman's Vintage Motorworks of Miami, Florida on November 13th of 1984 in original condition with 57,000 miles from new. At the time, it was finished in Shell Grey, with a black convertible top, matching interior and an original air conditioner.

The car was sold on February 4th of 1985 to Mr. Edward Hand. At the time, the car had just 57,168 miles. It was used sparingly over the next decade. It was sold in February of 1995 by Vantage Motorworks to Mr. Paul Risolia of Bay Harbor Island, Florida. While in the care of this owner, the car was expertly altered in appearance to suit their personal preferences. The front fenders, inner fender aprons, grille and hood were sourced from a donor Bentley sedan, along with Bentley hubcaps and exterior badges. Additionally, the top surfaces of the body were painted in a Dark Blue finish.

In March of 1998, the Silver Cloud was sold to its most recent owner, the late Mr. Fred Jones of Columbus, Mississippi.

In 2010, the car was offered for sale at the 'Automobiles of Amelia Island' event presented by RM Auctions at Amelia Island, Florida. The car was estimated to sell for $250,000 - $300,000. The car would leave the auction unsold, as the $185,000 high bid was not enough to satisfy the reserve.

by Dan Vaughan

LWB Limousine

Known as the 'Proper Motorcar', most Rolls-Royce Silver Clouds were five-passenger sedans, while this particular automobile is a highly unusual long-wheelbase limousine. This automobile is currently in its third ownership. It was originally built for an Italian Countess from Milan, Italy and the second owner of this fine automobile was from Monte Carlo, the Principality of Monaco.

The quality of these fine automobiles is attested to by the Rolls-Royce advertising slogan: 'At sixty miles an hour, the loudest noise in the new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock.'

New for 1959, Rolls-Royce offered an 8-cylinder 90-degree V-configuration, aluminum-silicon alloy cylinder block with cast-iron wet cylinder liners, bore x stroke 104.14 x 91.44 mm (4.1x3.6 inch) capacity 6,230 cc engine.

Convertible

One of the last of only 75 left drives built 1960-1962, this never damaged or corroded Beverly Hills - delivered example has traveled only 52,577 miles since new. Equipped as originally supplied with optional air conditioning, split bench seating and power windows and finished as ordered in Sand lacquer with Beige top and hides, it is accompanied by its original unplundered tool kit and complete owner's handbooks as well as copies of the factory records.

It was first delivered to a Hollywood film executive, Mr. John Edgar of Beverly Hills, California on November 11, 1962-such a late date that the factory records instruct it to be registered as a 1963 (which is a Silver Cloud III)! It later passed to the husband of the late Lucille Ball, who never titled it in his or her name as he did like to trade in cars, but the car was widely known as the 'Lucille Ball' car in the 1970s. It was acquired by Vantage Motorworks from the third owner in 1983 with 43,961 total miles traveled and resold to a noted physician from Ft. Meyers, Florida, in early 1984 who enjoyed it sparingly until 1996 when it was again sold by Vantage Motorworks to a Miami Beach attorney with approximately 6,000 miles more showing. That gentleman suffered a lifestyle change and Vantage Motorworks reacquired the automobile in 2004 and resold it to its present sixth owner, Guillermo Salazar.

Because of the obvious car taken with this vehicle, it has never required a major restoration.

SCT100 Touring Limousine Young by James Young
Chassis number: LCC76

This 1962 Rolls-Royce SCT100 Touring Limousine was offered for sale at the 2007 Blackhawk Collection Exhibit held at the Pebble Beach Concours. It carried a price tag of $225,000. It is the extremely rare SCT 100 Touring Limousine on a Silver Cloud II Chassis. This is a Non-Division model which allows for more comfort in the front area. Coachwork is alloy and 1 of a handful crafted by 'James Young Coachbuilders'. The vehicle has recently gone through a complete reconditioning; including tires, brakes, battery, wiper, turn signals, window motors, and more.

by Blackhawk Collection

by Rolls-Royce

Drophead Coupe by Mulliner
Chassis number: LSZD161

LSZD161 is a 1962 Rolls-Royce H.J. Mulliner Cloud II drophead. The original owner was Arthur Wheeler of Palm Beach, Florida. This is one of 75 LHD Cloud II dropheads produced.

The car has been owned by a number of collectors, such as Thomas Barrett, Noel Thompson and Richard Haeberle.

In 2007-2008, the mechanical restoration was completed by the current owner. The paint, upholstery and top were done by Automotive Restorations. Since the restoration, this car has received several awards at the national level.

LWB Limousine
Chassis number: LCD15
Engine number: LC15D

Rolls-Royce replaced its original Silver Cloud model with the Silver Cloud II. It brought with it a 380 cubic-inch V8 engine, which was built to a sophisticated design utilizing numerous lightweight components. The engine was mated to a smooth-shifting automatic transmission and came with power brakes, power-assisted steering, a radio, whitewall tires, and updated climate-control systems.

Production of the SCII (as it would become known to enthusiasts) would last four years. The long-wheelbase versions had a wheelbase that measured 127 inches between the axles. They were given factory 'steel saloon' bodywork and featured additional legroom to the rear compartment, a large walnut bulkhead behind the front seat, and, more often than not, a division window. These vehicles were essentially a limousine and earned the nickname, the 'Baby Phantom.'

Of the 2,717 Silver Cloud II chassis produced, only 299 were the long-wheelbase version.

This Limousine was originally delivered through London dealer Jack Barclay to F. Musson, Esq., of London and Greenwich, who specified that the Rolls be equipped with electric windows, Lucas fender-mounted mirrors, Avon whitewall tires, and combined parking/driving lights above each door pillar, as well as a power-operated division window. The car left the factory delivered in Shell Grey over Black Pearl, with blue leather upholstery, as it still wears today.

The car has been owned by its current caretaker for nearly a decade, during which time it was driven only 5,000 miles. In total, the car has 98,000 actual miles.

by Dan Vaughan

LWB Limousine
Chassis number: LLCA49

The long-wheel base version of the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud rested on a 127-inch wheelbase. Of the 2,717 Silver Cloud II chassis models produced, only 299 were the long-wheelbase version. This particular example is a rare factory left-hand-drive model that had been built to U.S. specification with Frigette air conditioning to the rear compartment, power-operated windows, an AM radio, and lamb's wool rugs, and it is believed to have been built for dealer inventory. The current owner acquired the car from the original owner well over 20 years ago. In his ownership, the car was refinished in Sand and Sable and the interior was upholstered in proper Biscuit Tan leather with a walnut dashboard and proper Smiths metric gauges and folding tables. The build sheet states it was originally specified with a division window, a decision that was later changed. Currently, the odometer shows just 98,191 kilometers.

by Dan Vaughan

LWB Limousine
Chassis number: LSAE593

This Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II is finished in burgundy and black paint with a beige interior. It has a rebuilt engine and rebuilt transmission.

by Dan Vaughan

Saloon
Chassis number: LSZD97

John Polwhele Blatchley spent his early career with J. Gurney Nutting & Company Limited before moving over to Rolls-Royce. While chief stylist at Rolls-Royce, he finished several design masterpieces, including the Silver Dawn, Silver Shadow and Corniche. The Silver Cloud II was built from 1959 through 1962 with 2,417 examples built. The design was largely unchanged from the predecessor Silver Cloud I series, however, it mechanical components were revised dramatically. A 6.2-liter V8 engine replaced the outgoing 4.9-liter inline 6-cylinder unit. It improved the vehicle's bottom-end torque and shaved 2.6 seconds off its zero-to-sixty mph time.

This particular example has Wilton wool carpeting, Mohair headliner, and a black leather interior with red piping on the seats and door panel. There is burled walnut on the dashboard, upper door sills and rear tray tables. It was factory equipped with air conditioning, an automatic transmission, power steering and power windows. The exterior is finished in black.

by Dan Vaughan

Drophead Coupe by Mulliner
Chassis number: LSZD 135
Engine number: 342DS

H.J. Mulliner & Co., Ltd. produced a design for the Silver Cloud (including the Silver Cloud II) that was known as Style 7504, a Drophead Coupe Adaptation. They were known as 'Adaptations' because they began as standard steel saloons, and were nearly completely reworked, removing the steel roof and two of the doors. More than half of the 107 Drophead Coupe Adaptations produced were exported to the United States.

This particular example was delivered new to Elisabeth Barney of Palm Beach, Florida. It was specified with power windows and split-bench front seat. It left the factory wearing a Steel Blue exterior over blue leather hides but currently wears Sand beige Metallic paint over a light tan leather interior.

This Rolls-Royce has a power top and factory air conditioning.

The car was purchased in 2015 by its current caretaker and in January of 2020 was given over $51,000 worth of mechanical work by Vantage Motor Works of Miami Florida. Engine and fuel leaks were resolved, and the cooling system and gearbox were serviced. Later in the year, the car received an additional $18,000 worth of service to fix the aging paint, plus $4,600 worth of work on the heater core.

by Dan Vaughan

Drophead Coupe by Mulliner
Chassis number: SAE79

Design number 7504 by H.J. Mulliner is commonly known as an 'Adaptation' as the standard steel saloon was adapted into a convertible by removing the steel top, then fitting two doors in place of four. It is believed that thirty-three examples were so equipped.

This Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II was a special-order example by the first owner, John Halperin of New York, who accepted delivery on April 8th of 1962 through J.S. Inskip. It had been flown from England via Silver City Aircraft to New York. It left the factory fitted with power brakes, power-assisted steering, windows, an antenna, and a convertible top.

By the close of the 1990s, the Rolls-Royce had made its way to California while it was owned by a resident of Rancho Santa Fe, California, before being acquired by the Fleischman Collection in 2005.

This Rolls-Royce is finished in 'Sand' paintwork and the cabinetry, picnic and map trays, and instrument panel are finished in the finest burled walnut veneers. It has Wilton wool carpets in 'Cumberland Stone', 'Fawn' West of England wool head-cloth, 'Beige' Connolly hides, a fresh mohair top, and correct white wall tires.

In 2016 the transmission was overhauled and in 2019 Charles Agapiou, Ltd. performed a service and the alternator was replaced.

by Dan Vaughan

Saloon
Chassis number: LSAE589
Engine number: P5240

This 1962 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud II Saloon is powered by a 6,223cc aluminum-alloy, overhead valve V8 engine breathing through twin SU carburetors and delivering 185 horsepower. There is a four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Currently, there are 62,342 miles on the odometer. It was purchased new in England by British actress/model/socialite Lady Sylvia Ashley. When she moved from London to Los Angeles, California, she brought the car with her. When she passed away in 1977, she left the car to her niece who kept it in wonderful cosmetic and mechanical condition.

The car wears a Sand exterior color over a tan leather interior.

by Dan Vaughan

Saloon
Chassis number: LLCC83

The Silver Cloud II was introduced in the autumn of 1959 and came equipped with a new 6,230cc aluminum-alloy V8 engine. With twin S.U. carburetors, the OHV engine delivered approximately 185 horsepower.

This particular 1962 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II is one of 127 left-drive Long Wheelbase saloons, and it features a factory divider window. It left the factory with USA specifications and delivered to Canada where it was put into service by the British High Commission in Ottawa, Ontario. At some point in the car's history, it's original Burgundy was replaced by white, , which is over a light tan leather interior.

After its use by the High Commission, the Silver Cloud was sold into private hands. From around 1978 through 1989, the Rolls-Royce resided with RROC member Mel Seck of Chatsworth, California. It later joined an extensive collection of Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars, where it was on static display for an extended time. The car currently resides in the United States and requires recommissioning and minor mechanical attention before use.

by Dan Vaughan