Vehicle Description
The 20/25 succeeded the 20 HP in 1929 as the Rolls Royce's
small-displacement model positioned below the flagship Phantom.
Engineers made many improvements over the 20HP, and while it was an
"entry model" for Rolls-Royce, it was still an exclusive, high-end
automobile for a discerning clientele. The 20/25 featured an
overhead-valve inline six-cylinder engine of 3,6690-cc and featured
an aluminum crankcase, cast iron cylinder block, pressurized
lubrication, and redundant ignition systems. The four-speed shifter
was positioned to the right of the chassis in response to customer
complaints that the 20HPs central-mounted 3-speed shifter appeared
cheap and thus not to the standard expected of a Rolls-Royce. The
chassis of the 20/25 was a traditionally robust affair, with a
solid front axle, live rear axle, semi-elliptic springs, and
four-wheel brakes assisted by a mechanical servo. All of the
improvements afforded the new Rolls-Royce 20/25 HP with upwards of
75 mph performance, depending upon the coachwork selected by the
owner or selling dealer. Coachbuilders produced a wide variety of
20/25 styles, ranging from formal, closed limousines to more
sporting open roadsters. The series proved to be quite popular, and
nearly 4,000 were built between 1929 and 1936, making the 20/25 one
of the most successful Rolls-Royce models of the pre-war era.
Offered here is a 1933 20/25 chassis number GSY70, equipped with
its original Standard Enclosed Limousine coachwork by Thrupp &
Maberly, Ltd. According to the chassis cards and ownership history
supplied by the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club, it was sold through
the legendary dealer Jack Barclay Ltd. to a Mrs. Jardine-White,
later The Baroness de Kerchove. Subsequent owners included S. Webb
& Sons Funeral Directors, and T.A. Bowker, Esq. who owned it in the
mid-1950s. More recently, the handsome Rolls-Royce has received a
comprehensive restoration and is finished in silver with blue
fenders and feature lines. A burgundy chassis and red wire wheels
fitted with polished aluminum discs offer a pleasing accent to the
livery. Accessories include authentic Lucas headlamps, fender
lamps, and a central-mounted driving lamp. Later-style Lucas
taillights are incorporated into the rear wings to improve the
visibility of the brake lights. The cabin has been fully
reupholstered and updated as part of the restoration. The
chauffeur's compartment is authentically trimmed in leather, which
was harder wearing for the day-to-day duties of driving. The dark
blue hides provide a pleasing accent to the silver body.
Instrumentation and switchgear all present well in the refinished
wood fascia. Wood trim also carries onto the door caps front and
rear. In the passenger compartment, gray fabric broadcloth is used
on the seat, door cards, and headlining and is presents in lovely
order. There's a central divider with a glass partition and a
custom-built wooden drinks cabinet fitted during the restoration.
Wood door caps and window surrounds are refinished to match and all
in good condition with a consistent quality finish. According to
the build sheets, this car retains its original six-cylinder
engine. Under the bonnet, the 'six is tidy and authentically
detailed, with evidence of use appearing on the block and other
painted surfaces. It feeds a four-speed manual gearbox with the
traditional right-hand gear lever. The 20/25 has long been a
favorite among marque enthusiasts thanks to its available
performance, prestige, and user-friendly character. This handsome
limousine is a great family-friendly classic with many
opportunities for touring enjoyment with groups like the Classic
Car Club of America or Rolls-Royce Owner's Club. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7015-1933-rolls-royce-20-25-limousine/
