Description
Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1998, the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph marks a key milestone in the marque’s history, at a time when the company was undergoing a major industrial and financial transition. It replaced the aging 'SZ' range (Silver Spirit, Mulsanne), which had become obsolete after more than twenty years on the road. Unable to develop a new model on its own, Rolls-Royce entered into a technical partnership with BMW, which supplied, among other things, the engine and several mechanical components. The Silver Seraph is fitted with a 5. 4-litre BMW M73 V12 developing 326 hp, already used in the BMW 750i/ iL, making it the first Rolls-Royce V12 since the Phantom III. Coupled with a ZF automatic transmission, this engine prioritises quiet and silk-smoothness over any sportiness. The notably comfortable suspension confirms its status as a luxury limousine, geared towards passenger well-being. The cabin continues Rolls-Royce tradition with wood veneer, Connolly leather, thick carpets and exceptional insulation, despite some BMW-origin controls deemed less elegant. On board, the experience remains unique, dominated by calm, refinement and an incomparable hushed atmosphere. The exterior styling, penned by Steve Harper, adopts an elegant and discreet retro-design, paying homage to the marque’s historic models (Shadow, Cloud). With its imposing dimensions, the Seraph makes a majestic presence. A victim of the split between Volkswagen (Bentley, Crewe works) and BMW (the Rolls-Royce name), the Silver Seraph saw its career brutally cut short. Produced up until 2002, it was assembled in only 1, 570 units, including 127 long-wheelbase Park Ward versions. Rare and often underappreciated, it remains today a unique testament to Rolls-Royce.
