1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III

The 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III here looks to be one. The white car doesn't scream for attention, but it'd be hard to ignore the H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd. styling. The odometer reads just over 40,000 miles, and the black interior, while not perfect, reflects the understated approach to classy motoring. And since it's LHD, one wouldn't need to adapt to RHD driving to enjoy the top-drawer product from across the Atlantic.

With the Silver Cloud II, Rolls-Royce might have introduced a new V8 powerplant replacing the straight-six, but it wasn't until the Silver Cloud III that the model line got new styling. With quad headlamps, it made all the difference. What set the car apart was the further differentiated styling of the coupe versions, with staggered headlamp setup and bodywork by H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward. It's hard to argue the elegance of a white Rolls-Royce, and this 1965 example proves that. It works so well on the clean exterior design of the coupe that one may even overlook the more stately saloon, too.

Black may not be everyone’s choice for a leather interior, but it'll still make the occupants feel special. The combination of wood and leather upholstery complements the simplicity of the white exterior quite nicely. A lost chance on a coach-built car like this? Far from that, actually!

In terms of wear, as you may be able to see in the detailed photo gallery below, this 1965 Silver Cloud III has aged well both on the outside and inside. It's not perfect by any means, and there are rough edges, but by the looks of it, a little TLC will do wonders for the way it looks and feels.

Until the arrival of the Silver Shadow, which succeeded the Silver Cloud III, Rolls-Royce followed a body-on-frame architecture. Not only was the Silver Cloud III the last car to be based on that, but it was also the first modern series to benefit from the company's first V8 engine, following a brief stint at the beginning of the century. The aforementioned V8 was introduced in the Silver Cloud II and was further upgraded in the Silver Cloud III.

As you can see in the photos, the overall condition of the underside looks pretty decent. The engine bay looks to be in good condition and can be accessed by popping open the split hood. It even has the original plaque on, too.

With the involvement of coachbuilders, the Silver Cloud III cars became the recipient of design studies from several different houses. Out of 328 total coachbuilt units produced, roughly 100 of them are understood to be Mulliner Park Ward examples. The Silver Cloud III was on sale from 1962 to 1966. It took over from the Silver Cloud II and benefitted not just from the different styling but also improved mechanicals.

It's going to be a no-reserve auction for this 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III by MPW. Estimated between $50,000 and $80,000, it's a lot of car for the money. A momentous car for Rolls-Royce, one that's been largely neglected by the classic car market until now, your opportunity has arrived.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.