The Silver Ghost – "The Best Car in the World"

The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was first introduced in 1906, earning a reputation for being the most reliable and well-engineered automobile of its time. The 40/50 HP model, known as the Silver Ghost, quickly became synonymous with quality, refinement, and durability.

By 1914, Rolls-Royce had expanded its market to colonial territories, leading to the production of the Colonial Specification Silver Ghosts. These models were designed for rugged terrains, with stronger chassis, upgraded suspension, and larger radiators to cope with the demanding climates of countries such as India, Australia, and Africa.

High-performance "Colonial London to Edinburgh" chassis
Rare 22" radiator, high compression engine and 4-speed gearbox
Restored in the 1980s, with excellent patina and usability
Long and distinguished ownership history across UK and USA

Features & Engineering Excellence

7.4-liter inline-six engine, delivering smooth and silent performance
Upgraded Colonial chassis with reinforced frame and suspension
Larger cooling system, ideal for tropical and desert conditions
Hand-built craftsmanship, setting the benchmark for luxury motoring
Elegant period-correct bodywork, maintaining original design features

Silver Ghosts of this era were built to order, with luxurious coachwork commissioned from renowned coachbuilders. The Colonial Specification models were among the most robust and exclusive Silver Ghosts ever made.

Historical Significance & Provenance

This 1914 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost is a rare Colonial Specification example, making it one of the most sought-after pre-war Rolls-Royces. The Silver Ghost’s legendary status was solidified when one example completed a 15,000-mile endurance test in 1907, demonstrating its unrivaled reliability.

With over a century of history, this Silver Ghost remains an important piece of Rolls-Royce heritage, perfectly suited for vintage rallies, concours events, or private collections.

Model History
The legendary Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was introduced in 1907, setting new benchmarks for quality, silence, and mechanical reliability. The 40/50 HP series quickly earned fame by triumphing in endurance and performance trials—most notably winning the 1911 London to Edinburgh and return rally with a specially tuned high-compression engine. That success led to the release of a factory-upgraded chassis nicknamed the "London to Edinburgh" model.

Chassis no. 25PB, built in 1914, is a fine example of this evolution. It incorporates the best of pre-war Silver Ghost engineering: a high compression inline six-cylinder engine, a rare 22-inch radiator with louvered bonnet, and a robust four-speed gearbox. Originally fitted with a colonial specification for overseas use, this Ghost remains a benchmark of early 20th-century grand touring.

A Collectible Masterpiece

This 1914 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Colonial represents the pinnacle of early 20th-century automotive engineering. A highly desirable pre-war Rolls-Royce, it embodies the craftsmanship, durability, and timeless elegance that continue to define the Rolls-Royce brand today.

Ownership & Provenance
Chassis 25PB's story is long and well documented. In its early years, it served in France, with records suggesting it was sent there during WWI, possibly as a staff car. Post-war, it was returned to the UK where it changed hands several times. In 1980, it underwent a careful restoration and was maintained in excellent driving condition with a charming patina.

Among the many notable owners was Alex Tanner, who worked on restoring the car while documenting its condition and features, including twin rear wheels and period-correct fittings. Its ownership includes respected figures such as Lt. Col. Raymond Griffin of Houston, Texas, and the well-known collector Dr. Keith Bowley. It was regularly driven and participated in numerous RREC events and Silver Ghost rallies, earning admiration for its performance and originality.

Condition
Today, the car stands in ideal touring condition. The older restoration has mellowed beautifully and now carries a characterful patina. It retains its distinctive open sports tourer body, believed to be original, and is equipped for reliable driving with the potential for further rally use. It offers a unique opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic and technically advanced Edwardian Rolls-Royces ever built.

A Grand Veteran of Motoring History
With clear ties to the celebrated "London to Edinburgh" series and a pedigree of known custodianship, this 1914 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost represents the pinnacle of pre-war engineering. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, 25PB is not just a car—it is an experience of driving excellence from the dawn of motoring.

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