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1926 RR Springfield Silver Ghost Tilbury Sedan LHD
The chassis of this limousine, acquired in 1998, was manufactured at the Springfield, Massachusetts plant, established in 1919. Rolls-Royce manager Claude Johnson was very interested in expanding Rolls-Royce in the United States to avoid high import duties and to manufacture aircraft engines in various American companies. The year 1928 was the best year with the production of the Phantom I, but the Wall Street crash in 1929 and the subsequent crisis in 1931 marked the end of production. The more traditional American still preferred to order their car from Derby. The production of the Phantom II was not a good option considering the decline in sales in America. Claude Johnson had died in April 1926, and the “American adventure” was considered one of his mistakes. Today, there is a strong following for the cars made by the Springfield company that survived.
The exhibited limousine underwent a deep restoration due to its peculiar origin: an English barn. Painted in British green and black, it features two rows of windows and a rigid roof covered in leather, finished with decorative side hinges that simulate the landaulet style. It has position lights carved with the company’s monogram and characteristic Springfield drum headlights, as well as large bumpers. The seats are beige leather, with footrests, while the roof and doors are upholstered in fabric. The door handles are carved brass.
The Tilbury sedan model adapted on the Silver Ghost was a beautiful car to be driven by its owner and was sought after by many buyers. Our example participated in the 1927 New York National Show, where it shared space with the popular Ford T.
The quality of construction of American cars was superb and for some even superior to that of Derby. This was partly due to the opportunity to establish a new plant with more favorable working conditions and the enthusiasm and initiative of American mechanics. The Springfield Rolls-Royce is a unique blend of the best of both British and American practices.
- Chasis: S340RL
- Carrocería: Willoughby
- Motor: L6 / 7.428cc
- Producción USA: 1.703 uds
- Período USA: 1921-1926
