"By the late 1920s the trend for ever-heavier coachwork on the Rolls-Royce 20hp had inevitably had a detrimental effect on performance. Rolls-Royce’s solution was to increase the comparatively small six-cylinder engine’s capacity from just over three litres to 3,699cc which, together with a stronger crankshaft allowing increased rpm, raised its output to 25hp. Over the past eight decades the 20/25hp Rolls-Royce has earned an enviable reputation of being among the most dependable, satisfying and highest quality pre-war models of all. Produced from 1929 to 1935, it represented the marque’s determined effort to move away from massive formal cars, routinely chauffeur-driven, to the newly fashionable owner-driver market for the wealthy private owner-driver. Various detail improvements were made to the 20/25 during its seven year production life including rises in compression ratio in 1930 and 1932; the latter year also saw the introduction of synchromesh for the third and fourth gear ratios, thermostatically controlled radiator grille shutters, a one-shot centralised lubrication system and an electric fuel gauge.
The 20/25 offered here is presented in black with maroon over a maroon leather interior and is in good order. This impressive looking Rolls-Royce with a body by the famous coachworks Hooper has benefitted from both a respray and mechanical work in the last three years which includes work to the 4300cc engine fitted to this example. The interior is also in good condition with a lovely patina to the upholstery. Offered with a history file containing various invoices and a V5C registration document, this MoT test exempt car is a wonderful example of a vintage Rolls-Royce. This 20/25 is submitted to auction with an estimate that offers great value to any new custodian."