1960 - Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II

The most aristocratic and emblematic of Rolls-Royces French road registration Chassis n°LSTB144 - Original drawing of the Silver Cloud, 6.2L V8 and power steering - One of only 2417 Silver Cloud IIs produced - Attractive configuration and condition - Optional power windows and picnic shelves - Left-hand drive and only 54,200 kms on the clock - Braking system overhauled and rebuilt in 2024 The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud is the most luxurious vehicle produced by the famous British brand between 1955 and 1966. Aesthetically considered by some to be the finest factory-built Rolls-Royce, it exudes aristocratic elegance and finesse, despite its generous dimensions of almost 5.40 m and 2 m in width. Structurally, the Silver Cloud is still based on a separate chassis (with box sections), enabling special bodywork to be produced by leading coachbuilders such as Mulliner, James Young, Hooper and Park Ward. However, given the very successful princely allure of the factory car, these creations were less common on the Silver Cloud than on previous-generation Rolls-Royces, and most of the time less successful. Mechanically, it is powered primarily by the in-house 4.9L in-line six-cylinder with opposed valves. The Silver Cloud features a new light-alloy cylinder head and twin SU carburetors. Then, from 1959 onwards, an all-new 6.2-liter V8 aluminum block took its place under the hood, again combined with two SU HD8 carburetors for "sufficient" power. In both cases, the transmission is entrusted to a GM Hydramatic 4-speed automatic gearbox built by Rolls-Royce. Suspension is independent at the front and rigid axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs at the rear. Braking is assisted by four hydraulic drums. This mechanical assembly gives the Silver Cloud great smoothness and flexibility, while offering more than respectable performance for a limousine of its standing at the time. In all, three generations of Silver Clouds followed, each with its own technical and aesthetic evolutions, the most notable of which was Rolls-Royce's switch to the V8 in 1959 with the Silver Cloud II, slightly heavier but more powerful and equipped with power steering as standard. Confirming Rolls-Royce's switch to the V8, while retaining the Silver Cloud's original beautiful design and voluptuous handling, the second-generation Silver Cloud embodies the Rolls-Royce par excellence, and enjoys a special place in the hearts of collectors. The Silver Cloud in our sale is a second-series model, later called "II" to differentiate it from the other generations. This is an early production example of the Silver Cloud II, as it was put into circulation in June 1960, most likely in France or Monaco. This Silver Cloud II sports a two-tone black and grey livery with matching piping, combined with burgundy upholstery and carpets, giving it a classy look that enhances its lines. It is equipped with the interesting option of electric windows, and also features "picnic" style rear shelves in precious wood, adding to its glamour. The car has been in the hands of its current owner since 2019, having been parked for a long time in the Monaco region according to the previous owner, who had owned it since 2016. Previously restored, it has a patina that is typical of a car of this type, which could be kept as is, as the structure is sound, or improved by a complete paint job, at the future owner's discretion. Mechanically, a slightly more thorough overhaul than that carried out when the braking system was overhauled in the spring of 2024, at a cost of just over €3,700, could be carried out, although this Silver Cloud runs satisfactorily. This is to be taken as a precaution before contemplating long journeys. The odometer reading of just over 54,000 kms seems to correspond to the original mileage, which would be both very reasonable and consistent for this kind of prestigious sedan. The car comes with its original owner's manual, jack and tools. This Silver Cloud, in its undoubtedly most interesting version with its V8 and power steering