Rolls-Royce Silver Spur

There were no real surprises in Autumn 1980 when Rolls-Royce unveiled their new Silver Spirit and its long wheelbase counterpart, the Silver Spur, alongside Bentley's sporting Mulsanne range. The well-proven 6,750cc V8 engine previously used in the Silver Shadow was retained but the new car featured more modern, angular styling being longer, wider and lower but with 30 per cent more glass area. Road-holding was reported to be "the best yet from Rolls-Royce" thanks to significant improvements to the self-levelling rear suspension and the new car had a top speed of 120mph.

Interior appointments were as luxurious as ever, using only the finest hides and veneers, the most noticeable change being the adoption of separate rear seats and the re-instatement of folding picnic tables. "A gloriously individual possession that signifies impeccable excellence and taste, an extravagant celebration of detail over function, a monument in the driveway and an occasion to drive," was how Autocar summed it up.

This 1988 Silver Spur has had just two previous owners from new and has spent the majority of its life in the sunny principality of Andorra. It comes with an original bill of sale for £87,957 from Jack Barclay Ltd and has 15 Rolls-Royce and main dealer stamps as well as an extensive service history and bills totalling over £42,000. The rear shock absorber gas spheres were replaced last year at RR&B in Bromsgrove and the car drives superbly, as you would expect from a Rolls-Royce. Still retaining its original Rolls-Royce cocktail set in the back, including cut glass decanters and hip-flasks which were an £875 option, it also has the original tool kit and leather encased handbooks and service books. It comes with a current MOT and tax, a nice private plate (20 VXB) and is ready for immediate use.