Provenance: The Estate of the Late Rufus Eyre
This Rolls-Royce 20/25 has exceptionally been owned by the
same family for its entire history. It is remarkably rare for a car of this age
and quality to have such an exemplary pedigree.
The Rolls-Royce 20/25 was the luxury pre-war car that is
recognised as the saviour of the Rolls-Royce marque. It was only due to the
popularity and success of this vehicle among the mega wealthy of the 1930’s,
that the company was able to survive the Great Depression. The 20/25 was
developed from the 20hp, with an aim to increase driving performance and
opulence. It was first debuted at the 1929 Olympia Motor Show and received
instant international success.
The 20/25 benefitted greatly by marked improvements to the
20’s six-cylinder engine. The engine size was increased to 3669cc and the
cylinder bore diameter was widened by 0.25 inches. The additional power this
created served the car two-fold; firstly, it enabled the car to reach higher
speeds, secondly, it enabled coachbuilders to fit larger and more extravagant
bodies to the rolling chassis. Both consequences appealed greatly to the luxury
grand-touring set of the industrious 1930’s.
Purchased in 1931 as a limousine, bodied by Park Ward, for
the father of the Late Rufus Eyre. It was garaged in the same block as it is
today, with the quarters for the driver on the floor above. The Park Ward body
is number 3541. The interior has plush leather seats and a divider between
passenger and driver, this is a car you could comfortably drive and be driven
in. The car has been unused for some time and will require a service. However,
these cars were exceptionally well designed, with 70% of the 3,827 produced
still road worthy. As well as this there is a large and active Rolls-Royce club
who offer a vast network of support for buyers.
The single-owner history of this 20/25, plus its
distinguished reputation within the brands history, make GP531 a highly
desirable and collectable vehicle for all car enthusiasts.
