Highlights

Very rare Hooper coachbuilt bodywork
Unmodified example retaining its original inline-six engine
Extensive file of invoices
New tyres and battery recently fitted
Front windscreen professionally restored with correct chrome metalwork

The Appeal

Looking at a '40s Roller betrays just how 'right' the Crewe marque got their machines from the off. Their first post-war model is still every bit as recognisable as a newer car, with a distinguished upright grille, sweeping curves and an altogether palatial eye for luxury. The Silver Wraith, however, was a strictly bespoke, coachbuilt machine - this particular one appearing to carry the highly desirable Hooper bodywork, only 3 of which were bodied in '47 and 48.

This was an era when chauffeur driving was popular, so the plush driver's array is separated from a beautiful passenger cabin with a drinks cabinet, footrests, picnic tables and - for the time - rather futuristic push-button adjustable seats. It was a car aimed at the elite, with built-in exclusivity that screams 'old money'.

This 1947 example has been in its current ownership since mid-2021 and remains original, with all of its early features still present and correct. The vendor tells us that the car is running correctly, and the car is reportedly capable of reaching 60 mph. Recent investment includes new tyres all round, including the spare, a new battery, and a professionally restored front windscreen using correct chrome metalwork. The leather seats were renewed in the 1990s, and the car still carries its original valve radio, though it is no longer functional.

Loaded with character, antique charisma and still remarkably classy - we think this car ticks all of the boxes.

Key Information

Mileage: 67,607 miles (indicated)
Country of registration: UK (reimported from the USA in 1990)
Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
Technical specs: 4,250cc inline-six petrol, four-speed manual
Paperwork: Plenty of invoices, original US title, photocopied history cards, correspondence, etc

The Detail

One of only 3 1947-1948 Wraiths to carry Hooper bodywork, per the Rolls-Royce enthusiasts' club
Originally registered in Norwich, UK
Later exported to the USA
Based in Missouri for much of its life
Imported to the UK in 1990
Original engine, reported to run correctly
New tyres fitted all round, including the spare
New battery fitted
A few minor marks on the paintwork
Driver's side rear door needs hinge adjustment to prevent scraping the paintwork; interior screws may need tightening
Brightwork contrasting nicely, with gentle patina
Front windscreen restored with correct chrome metalwork and refitted, for which paperwork is available
Leather seats renewed in the 1990s and now carrying a gentle patina
Original controls, right down to the adjustable seat buttons
Oil pressure gauge needle is stuck at 40 psi regardless of whether the engine is running
Original valve radio from new is still fitted but not working
All switches reported to be in working order
Modesty panel reportedly in good working order
Fan belt on the water pump squeaks and may need replacing
Clutch slips under hard acceleration but is reported to be fine during normal driving

BEFORE YOU BUY

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✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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