1949 Rolls Royce Silver Wraith, body by Park Ward

Year:	1949
Make:	Rolls Royce
Model:	Silver Wraith
Price:	$21,500

Description:
 

The Silver Wraith’s were the last of the coach-built Rolls Royces and this particular car (WFC 78) was bodied by Park Ward after the chassis and running gear were built at the Crewe factory in 1949.  These coach-built cars are highly desired by collectors with only 101 being built during the post-war Silver Wraith production period.  WFC 78 was treated to a frame-off restoration in the early 1980’s and has been in continual service since then.  

The paint on this Silver Wraith is generally in good condition, and is tastefully done in cream over champagne, with a slight touch-up on the left front fender.  Since this is an all-aluminum bodied car, rust is not an issue.  The interior has been nicely redone in beige vinyl that appears to mirror the original upholstery pattern.  The wood is good condition, having held up well since its restoration 25 years ago.   

WFC 78 features the large P-100 headlights which are a hall-mark of the earlier Rolls Royces.  The car also has a large, manual sunroof, although the current owner sealed it shut to prevent leaks.  This is, of course, a right hand drive car and features four suicide doors that add to the uniqueness of these vehicles.  It also has rear spats (fender skirts) that have a design unique to coach-built Park Ward bodied cars. 

The car has a rebuilt Rolls 6 cylinder engine that starts right up and runs well.  The transmission is a 4-speed manual which was rebuilt/replaced by Hyperion Parts and shifts properly and smoothly through the gears.  The hydromechanical brakes (hydraulic front/mechanical rear) have been rebuilt.  They appear to be in proper condition and stop the car well. 

This Silver Wraith has been chauffer-driven in recent years, serving as a wedding and special events car.  Accordingly it has been regularly maintained to assure its dependability and safety.  In addition, a complete and modern (R134) air conditioning system has been installed and works well, although the heater fan does not.  The fuel gauge and trafficators (turn signals) will also require attention.  While by no means a concours show car, this Rolls would make an excellent driver while the owner attends to cosmetic issues at his/her leisure.    

WFC 78 is a rare example of the last of Rolls Royce’s coach-built cars, with all of the unusual features (P100 lights, suicide doors, sunroof) that made these cars the choice of the royalty.  This is a car that will stand out among the other classic cars that one regularly sees.  You can be sure that not only will none of your neighbors have one but they probably will never have seen one.  This car is dependable, attractive and reasonably priced—making it the perfect classic and collectible car.  And, above all, it is a Rolls Royce.