1935 ROLLS-ROYCE 20/25 TOURING LIMOSINE

1935 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Touring Limousine by Barker - GLG79

This is a remarkably original example of a 90 year old Rolls-Royce.

Ordered in December 1934, this Rolls-Royce was delivered by Scottish dealer The Clyde Automobile Co Ltd in May 1935. She was bodied by Barker with Enclosed Limousine coachwork (completed April 14 1935). The order form notes “Car for use in the United Kingdom – Town and Touring”.

The 20/25 engine is a 3.7-litre 6-cylinder which excels in smoothness in operation, with a 4-speed gearbox.

The car was for Mrs Ann Duff of Ramleh, Busby, Lanarkshire in Scotland. Her husband was a partner in a company operating as a jewellery wholesaler, watch manufacturer, silversmith and diamond merchant in Glasgow.

The specification sheet listed a long chassis, mascot and radiator cap, the right wing spare wheel carrier and the petrol tank fuel filler to be set differently and with a remote vent.

She was kept for 22 years until in 1957 John Shand Ltd of Glasgow purchased it. Again it was retained in long ownership of 22 years before being purchased by Welded Tube of Canada Ltd and shipped to Ontario, Canada. After 16 years a relative of the owner purchased the car, and after a year, shipped it to Canterbury, New Zealand where he kept it until bought by a West Australian who took the car to his home town. Twenty years later he sold the Rolls-Royce to the present (6th) owner who has kept the car for the last nine years.

The shipping documentation from Canada to New Zealand and to Australia are in the car’s file. Importantly, copies of the build and testing records from Rolls-Royce are in there too.

The condition of the car today is fascinating. It remains remarkably original, having never been restored. The paintwork is past its prime, especially the silver side and rear sections, where it is crazed and dull. The bodywork itself remains very good – in aluminium, and the ash frame, upon first inspection appears to be sound. The brightwork and fittings are good. The doors all shut nicely – which underlines the quality of Barker’s coachwork construction.

The front seat leather has been replaced and is excellent, however all the other upholstery is the original, untouched since 1935. In good, sound condition, the seats, roof lining, door trims, etc – including the occasional seats, present well.

Some of the tools are in the under-seat drawers and the original fire extinguisher remains with the car. The wheel changing equipment is all in place and the built-in jacks operate. Aside from the clock, all electrical equipment works, including the semaphore side indicators.

There are many nice details on the car, including an opening windscreen, sliding glass division and it still retains both radiator caps the car was delivered with. It wears its original Scottish registration plates, and the WA plates 1935 RR

The car had seen plenty of use by the previous owner, and was frequently used in displays and runs. Notably, the car was driven from Perth to Lake Perkolili and back (past Kalgoorlie – 630km away) and has participated in the historic motor sport event held there. The Rolls-Royce is begining to show her age now and as time graces her form, there are a few things that need some attention.

Paul will be documenting the restoration of this beautiful vehicle with the intention of keeping her in a usable condition for as long as possible, however, the old girl may have other ideas.

Slideshow is not initiated in this album as there is a short video clip!

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