1996 Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit - Ex-Lieutenant Governor of Guernsey

Based on the Silver Shadow II, the Silver Spirit and its long-wheelbase counterpart, the Silver Spur, were announced in the autumn of 1980. Rolls-Royce's familiar and dependable 6,750cc V8 power unit remained unchanged, but significant improvements were made to the newcomers' self-levelling rear suspension and the styling too came in for revision, with a lower waistline, increased glass area and a more modern angular look; rectangular headlights graced the front of a Rolls-Royce for the first time, and the oft-changed radiator became wider and squatter. Inside, the Crewe firm's exemplary standards of equipment and finish were maintained, the most noticeable change being the adoption of separate rear seats and the reinstatement of folding picnic tables.

Launched in the autumn of 1989, by which time fuel-injection had been adopted for all markets, the Silver Spirit II looked virtually identical to its immediate predecessor (15-spoke alloy wheels excepted) but featured a number of detail alterations to the dashboard, centre console and controls as well as the more significant incorporation of Rolls-Royce's own adaptive suspension damping system. Following on from the Spirit III, 1995/6 saw the final iteration of the Silver Spirit's timeline. Technically it would have been the Spirit IV but in consideration of their Far Eastern customers, it was simply known as the 1996 Silver Spirit. Major changes included the introduction of a Garrett turbocharger on all models and the replacement of the previous Bosch engine management systems with one by Zytec. Also new were updated integrated front and rear bumpers and 16" wheels. 

This particular Silver Spirit has a unique history. It has spent nearly its entire life on the picturesque island of Guernsey, bearing a registration date of February 1996. The discerning owner ensured the car’s meticulous care, entrusting its servicing and maintenance to the esteemed Rolls-Royce specialists, Hillier Hill, of Olney, Buckinghamshire. In 2014, the vehicle’s prestige saw it serving the Guernsey government as the official transport of the Lieutenant Governor, the Queen’s representative on the island. In this capacity, the car was chauffeur-driven and amassed only limited additional mileage. It received regular services and care by Le Riche Auto in Jersey, further solidifying its immaculate condition.

Finished in gleaming Red Pearl over a classic R-R interior in Magnolia Hide piped in Bordeaux with a Bordeaux top-roll and matching carpets. Mechanically, the car is in excellent condition having covered a relatively low 41,000 miles, corroborated by its comprehensive service and maintenance records. Recent enhancements include a complete brake system overhaul in 2021 and the replacement of rear suspension spheres, ensuring top-tier driving performance and comfort.

Every Rolls-Royce exudes an unmistakable presence on the road, and this Silver Spirit, with its remarkable condition, low-mileage and impeccable care embodies this characteristic to the fullest. Its road-ready status makes it an enticing prospect for a new owner to cherish and drive. Currently, the car is registered in Guernsey, but the UK import VAT has been paid, simplifying the acquisition process, should it remain in the UK.