Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit II

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Firm believers in evolution not revolution, there were no real surprises when Rolls-Royce unveiled their new Silver Spirit in Autumn 1980 to replace the hugely successful Silver Shadow.

The well-proven 6,750cc V8 engine 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.

In 1989 a MkII version was launched with even more sophisticated suspension, ABS brakes, fuel injection and improved ventilation in the cabin.

First registered in April 1991, this Spirit II has had just four owners from new and was acquired by the vendor about five years ago but has been very little used throughout that time, being kept in storage as part of a private collection.

Looking most attractive in metallic blue with a cream hide interior, it appears to be in generally good condition throughout, starting promptly and running well as we manoeuvred it for these pictures. At the time of cataloguing there was no history file with the car and the owner was unavailable for comment so there is not much more we can say about it at present.