1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Piccadilly Roadster
The 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost stands as a great example of the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation, embodying the luxury and engineering prowess that Rolls-Royce is renowned for.
This model, produced both in England and at the Rolls-Royce American Works in Springfield, Massachusetts, upheld the company’s reputation for producing “The Best Car in the World.”
At the heart of the 1925 Silver Ghost was a 452 cubic inch (7.4 liters) L-head inline six-cylinder engine. This heavy duty powerplant featured a single Rolls-Royce carburetor and produced 85 horsepower at 2,300 rpm.
The engine’s design focused on smoothness and reliability, characteristics that were crucial for maintaining the marque’s high standards. The power was transmitted through a 3-speed manual transmission.
The chassis of the Silver Ghost was a marvel of engineering, featuring front and rear leaf spring suspension that contributed to its renowned smooth ride. The car was equipped with four-wheel drum brakes, a significant advancement for the time.
The Piccadilly Roadster’s design was particularly notable for its sleek lines and open-top configuration, which provided an exhilarating driving experience while showcasing the car’s elegant styling.
The craftsmanship extended to the interior, where fine leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and meticulously crafted instrumentation created an environment of unparalleled luxury.
Driving a 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Piccadilly Roadster was an experience unlike any other. The smooth, powerful engine delivered a refined yet potent performance, while the advanced suspension system absorbed road imperfections with ease, providing a ride quality that was unmatched at the time.
The car’s handling was precise, thanks to its well-engineered chassis and balanced weight distribution, allowing drivers to navigate with confidence and grace.
Rolls-Royce’s decision to establish a manufacturing operation in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1920 was a strategic move to cater to the American market while maintaining the same quality standards as their British counterparts.
Claude Johnson, the Chairman of the American operation, made sure that the traditions of excellence established in England were rigorously upheld in the United States. The Springfield-built Silver Ghosts were known for their meticulous craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials, mirroring the standards set by the original British models.
One of the unique aspects of the Springfield Silver Ghosts was the adoption of the right-hand drive pattern, a feature that was maintained until 1925 when left-hand drive became available to better suit the American market. This transition marked an important adaptation to local preferences while maintaining the vehicle’s core attributes.
Today, the 1925 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Piccadilly Roadster is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its exceptional craftsmanship and performance, makes it a prized possession in any classic car collection.
Credit: Bonhams|Cars
