Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
27th Nov, 2024 13:00
1927 Rolls-Royce 20HP Fixed Head Coupe
Family ownership since 1959
Registration No: OP 4348
Chassis No: GMJ1
MOT: Exempt
Subject to a sympathetic 10 year restoration
Fitted with Ranalah coachwork by The Southern Motor Co in 1937
In single-family ownership since August 1959
Fitted with "Clearview" pillarless windscreen
Unveiled in 1922, the 20hp was a second string to the Rolls-Royce bow – a shorter, more economical sibling to the Silver Ghost which broadened the marque’s reach to span both the very rich and seriously wealthy. Instantly distinguished by its horizontal radiator shutters, the newcomer was constructed around a ladder-frame chassis of 129 inch wheelbase. Power came from a 3, 127cc straight-six, OHV monobloc engine mated to a three-speed manual gearbox. Suspension was by semi-elliptic leaf springs all-round. Braking was initially on the rear wheels alone, while steering was by worm and nut. Progressively updated to feature a four-speed gearbox and servo-assisted all-wheel braking, the ‘baby’ Rolls remained in production until 1929, by which time some 2, 885 examples had vacated the company’s Derby factory. Lighter and more responsive than the Silver Ghost, the 20hp was capable of exceeding 60mph.
