Following World War II, Rolls-Royce, like so many other companies, slowly built up their production and offerings to suit the new tastes and requirements of buyers. The first car the company released following the conflict was the Silver Wraith in 1946. Considered by some to be the final “true” Rolls-Royce as it was only available as a rolling chassis for coachbuilders, the Silver Wraith ushered the company into the new era with ablomb. Powered by an Inline-6 developed for smooth torque production, the Silver Wraith chassis lent itself well to the large limousine bodies most buyers demanded. Come 1951, a long-wheelbase variant was introduced, following the release of the smaller, more driver-focused Silver Dawn which made its debut in 1949. Over the car’s fourteen years of production, coachbuilders like H.J. Mulliner continually updated and expanded on their designs to maximize comfort and style.

Silver Wraiths found their way into quite a few government fleets and the ultra-wealthy’s garages, though the British Royal Family and other Heads of State took delivery of the ultra-exclusive Phantom IV (produced in only eighteen examples between 1950 and 1956). In addition, numerous Silver Wraiths have been featured in film and television, their distinctive bodywork lending a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ unmatched by the smaller Silver Dawn or its replacement, the Silver Cloud. Today, these cars make for magnificent ‘special occasion’ vehicles and are remarkably easy to drive despite their size, especially with the 4.9L powerplant as fitted from 1955 on. Their coachbuilt nature ensures no two are exactly alike, and, with regularly scheduled maintenance, are more than capable of being enjoyed for decades to come.

The sensational 1956 Rolls-Royce Silver Wrath Long Wheelbase ‘Enclosed Drive Limousine’ by H.J. Mulliner displayed here looks fabulous in Dark Blue over a two-tone Navy and Ivory leather-trimmed interior. Stunning Burl Walnut woodwork surrounds the cabin, which features two occasional “opera seats”, which fold away when not in use, for a total passenger capacity of seven. This incredible vehicle was ordered new by R.W. Johnson (of Johnson & Johnson) and showcases an older restoration that still presents remarkably well. A 4.9L Inline-6 and a 4-speed automatic transmission ensure driving this impressive Silver Wraith is a pleasant experience despite its size, allowing you to enjoy it whenever the desire strikes.