Rolls-Royce – Silver Cloud II LWB (1961)

The Silver Cloud II was introduced in 1959. In line with tradition at Rolls-Royce, clients could still order a rolling chassis. The frame was designed with a welded rectangular tube construction and this allowed the chassis to be gilded with bespoke coachwork. However, the majority of cars were delivered with a factory body produced by the Pressed Steel Company. Rolls-Royce only introduced self-supporting structures in 1965 with the arrival of the Silver Shadow. Mr Louis Marx of Louis Marx & Co. in Fifth Avenue, New York, USA, was one of the leading toy manufacturers at the time and he ordered this exceptional one-off Rolls-Royce. Apparently, he very much liked the Mulliner 7410 drophead coupé design but wanted a four-door version, as he intended the car to be primarily driven by his chauffeur. Hence, he asked H.J. Mulliner to build this very unusual 4-door Cabriolet D with design number 7484. The Rolls-Royce was ordered on the long wheelbase chassis so as to incorporate the four doors and a retractable roof and not make the design look cramped. The LWB chassis was extended by 101 mm to provide more legroom for the rear passengers. The result turned out to be a luxury automobile of exceptional elegance. This impressive conveyance was delivered in June 1961 liveried in the colour combination of Smoke Green with a green hood and light-green hide upholstery, and fitted with green carpets still retained by the car to this day. This Silver Cloud was specified with many special options including power-operated hood, electric aerial for the radio, and air conditioning. The front electrically adjustable windows have a standard mode of operation, while the rear windows interestingly pivot on the front corner. The car features individually adjustable front seats that are designed to form a bench seat when in line. A one-piece grab rail is apparent for use in processions.