Chassis number - SFU 561
Rolls-Royce launched the Silver Cloud in April 1955 and it was the company’s core model range for the next 11 years. For the final iteration, the Silver Cloud III the exterior dimensions were subtly altered, the interior remodelled and the weight reduced by some 220lbs. Engine improvements included replacing the 1.75-inch SU carburettors with 2.0-inch examples and raising the compression ratio to 9:1. The resulting extra performance allowed the 0-60mph dash to be completed in just 10.1 seconds and a mean top speed of 114.3mph. The obvious visual change was the adoption of four headlamps. Less noticeable were the slightly increased slope of the bonnet and the shorter (by 1.5 inches) radiator grille.
This UK-supplied example was manufactured in 1964 and was UK-registered in May of that year, sold through Dex Autos Ltd of Hartlepool to an E. Ord Esq. of The Hartlepool Trading Company Ltd. Originally finished in striking Sable over Sand, the car was specified from new with electrically-operated windows and Avon tubeless tyres.
Falling into disrepair after long-term single ownership, the Cloud III was acquired by Days Autos in December 2009, later selling to our vendor in September of the following year. The car was offered for sale in ‘bare-metal’ and was in dire need of a sympathetic, yet comprehensive restoration. The new owner was no stranger to large projects (having restored a plethora of other classics alongside his brothers) and brought the car back to life between 2010 - 2018. This included much structural work and a full respray, plus attention was given to all aspects of the mechanicals and aesthetics. A large selection of invoices from Flying Spares and RR&B are present in the car’s history file, along with a copy of the original factory order and build records.
Now finished in the eye-catching colour combination of Rolls-Royce Damson over the original, but reconnolised Beige leather interior; ‘EBY 426B’ is understood to have remarkably had just three owners from new. Ready to be used and enjoyed, the car does have some minor paint imperfections and wear to the interior, which could be subtly improved by the new owner if desired to bring the car to show standards.