The Rolls Royce Silver Wraith II is an ultra-luxurious limousine with a remarkably smooth ride and a self-leveling system. It marked the pinnacle of refinement for the Silver Shadow long wheelbase saloons. With a 6.75-liter V8 engine and GM-sourced automatic transmission, it delivers adequate horsepower of 220hp. The car features a high-pressure hydraulic system for steering, brakes, and suspension, offering a magic carpet ride similar to Citroëns. Standard features include an Everflex vinyl roof, a formal rear window, and a distinctive R-R grille.
The Silver Wraith II, introduced in 1977, is a longer version of the Silver Shadow, providing more passenger room. In the U.S., it was available from May 1969. Outside North America, it had an electric glass divider, but U.S. regulations prohibited this due to the trunk's fuel tank. In 1976, the longer models were named Silver Wraith II. The Silver Shadow II, in production until 1980, retained the same body, 6.75L V8 engine, and GM400 automatic gearbox but featured larger bumpers, revised suspension, and enhanced steering. The Silver Wraith II, similar to the Shadow II but with a longer wheelbase, offered extra legroom for rear seat occupants and continued production until 1980. Rolls-Royce's history dates back to 1904, with iconic models like the Silver Ghost in 1906. During World War I, Rolls Royce produced engines for military use. Post-war, luxury car production resumed with models like the Phantom and Wraith. The company evolved through ownership changes and nationalization, producing classics like the Silver Cloud and Phantom V. In the 1960s, Rolls Royce was acquired by Vickers, then nationalized, privatized, and eventually sold to BMW in 2003. The current Rolls Royce models are developed by BMW while preserving the brand's distinct identity and heritage.
The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow crafted between 1965 and 1980, is renowned for its opulent performance. While retaining certain stylistic cues from the Silver Cloud, the Silver Shadow embraced a more contemporary design, being 3½ inches narrower and seven inches shorter. Nevertheless, it impressively maximized passenger and luggage space through efficient packaging made possible by unitary construction. Noteworthy performance enhancements included the introduction of disc brakes, replacing drums, and the implementation of independent rear suspension. Initially lacking a distinct name, the long-wheelbase model earned the title Silver Wraith II in 1976 with the introduction of the Silver Shadow II. Identifiable by shared alterations from the Silver Shadow II, the Wraith II boasted additional features like an Everflex-covered roof, a smaller rear opera-style window, and unique wheel covers. Some Silver Wraith IIs even featured electric divisions, contributing to the model's outstanding performance characteristics. The Silver Wraith II, a spacious saloon with a front engine and rear-wheel drive, was built by a 6.75-liter aluminum alloy V8. Despite delivering the performance characteristic of a sportier saloon, the Silver Wraith II maintained its dignified composure. In 1978, it solidified its status as the ultimate flagship saloon, representing the pinnacle of the model hierarchy. This iconic body design exemplified the brand and is destined to be a sought-after collector's item, with only 2,145 units produced during its limited run from 1977 to 1980.
The bodyshell in the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II received extra inches, discreetly integrated into the rear doors, to maintain the standard saloon's proper visual look. Geared for its matchless elegance, the Silver Wraith II exemplified masterful hand-built artistry. Produced between 1977 and 1980, only 2,154 of these vehicles were crafted. The cabins, featuring Connolly Brothers' supple natural grain leather, were individually unique, complemented by luxurious Wilton hand-tufted wool carpet and lamb's wool rugs underfoot. Additional comfort came from front and rear seat head restraints. The Silver Wraith II boasted Rolls Royce Motors' patented dual automatic temperature control, providing separate upper and lower systems for preset heating and cooling. The sophisticated air conditioning system automatically demisted the rear window and extracted stale air via the luggage boot. Standard amenities included power windows, centralized power door locking with boot lock and release, a theft deterrent system, automatic speed control, courtesy lighting, and an AM/FM stereo radio with Quadraphonic tape playing equipment, solidifying its status as a well-equipped limousine.
The creation of the Silver Wraith II was a painstaking process that spanned four months, involving precise shaping, fitting, tuning, testing, painting, and refining. The glass-like shine was achieved through 2-3 weeks of work and at least 12 layers of finish, and the iconic radiator grille was meticulously hand-sculpted in an additional 10 days. The Silver Wraith II featured a distinctive limousine-style rear window treatment covered in Everflex with French seams, and RR badging on the "C" pillars, serving as signature exterior elements. Special stainless-steel wheel discs and a "Silver Wraith II" trunk badge further set it apart from the Silver Shadow II saloons. The Silver Wraith II, with a wheelbase of 124.1 inches, offered an exceptionally spacious passenger compartment compared to the Silver Shadow II's 120-inch wheelbase. Its luxurious length of 211.5 inches and width of 71.8 inches showcased Rolls Royce's unparalleled blend of technology, beauty, and comfort. The Silver Wraith II was powered by a 6.75-liter 412 CID 16-valve OHV aluminum alloy V8 engine with hydraulic tappets, a hardened steel crankshaft, and aluminum alloy cylinder heads. It featured a sophisticated electronic ignition system and a twin exhaust system with stainless-steel silencers and catalytic converters.
The fuel delivery system of the Silver Wraith II comprised Two SU HIF7 carburetors and a Pierburg fuel pump. This system was synchronized with GM's Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 Series 3-speed fully automatic transmission, featuring a torque converter and electronic gear selection. The car also featured a single-piece propeller shaft and hypoid bevel final drive. Constructed as a monocoque, the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II fused the body and chassis into a single, robust entity. Its front suspension included an independent lower wishbone with a stabilized upper lever, independent coil springs, telescopic dampers, and an anti-roll bar for stability. The rear suspension featured independent trailing arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers, an anti-roll bar, and automatic ride height control. To enhance overall handling characteristics, the Silver Wraith II was equipped with power-assisted rack & pinion steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Ventilated discs were installed on the front axle, while solid discs were fitted to the rear.
The Rolls-Royce brand has long set the standard for automobiles that many aspire to own. The Silver Wraith II, an extended wheelbase version of the popular Silver Shadow II, pays homage to the first postwar Rolls-Royce. Some features include black polyurethane-faced bumpers, a 15-percent increase in the radiator shell's front-to-back measurement for a bolder appearance resembling the Corniche, and distinctive Cornich/Camargue-pattern wheel trims. Highly sought after by collectors, only 2,125 Silver Wraiths were produced until October 1980. In today's market, one can expect to pay around $20,000 for a model in average condition.
Some things in this world have a timeless quality and the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II is one of them. From its classic design to its silent engine, this exceptional motorcar feels at home anywhere in the world. A Rolls Royce is a work of art that seems to freeze time. Enhancements from the Silver Shadow, like rack-and-pinion steering and improved front suspension, elevated the handling and overall performance of this upscale model, aligning it with modern standards in its class. Exotic Car Trader provides a safe platform that simplifies the process of buying and selling cars privately. Each listed vehicle undergoes a thorough verification process for private sellers to ensure authenticity for our buyers. Our transparent car buying procedure clearly outlines all associated fees and packages, offering a convenient and comprehensive experience. We handle the escrow of funds at no additional charge and present trade-in and financing options for buyers. Enjoy these benefits when dealing with transactions on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us today to make a purchase. The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II, recognized for its operational excellence and exemplary design, stands as a lasting emblem in the automotive realm, keeping the interest of the buyers and sellers in the market.
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