1933 Rolls Royce Mayfair Phaeton Tourer
Rolls-Royce in common with other luxury marques realized during the Depression that its one-model policy no longer fit economic realities and introduced the Twenty and later the 20/25hp, smaller Rolls-Royce models intended for owner-drivers who appreciated Rolls-Royce quality in a smaller and more easily driven package. The only compromise was size; quality was never sacrificed based on price.
This 1933 20/25 Tourer was attractively bodied by Kitchener & Woodiwiss and has Lucas P100 headlamps, a Lucas driving light, a bulb horn and rides on red wire wheels with black wall tires. A fully polished bonnet and side cowlings and well sorted engine, patina interior in leather, and we have a nicely presenting custom bodied convertible.
Exterior
Finished in Old English White, and a Tan cloth top, the original quality restoration is getting just a bit a bit tired showing some bubbling and nice patina. Chrome is showing some dulling and very slight pitting but is certainly plentiful on this car. In particular gong to the extent of polishing the entire bonnet and side cowlings, this continues the shine even behind the iconic high front grille. A black top boot is included, and it covers the nicely preserved canvas top when it's in the down position. Side curtains are nonexistent. Interesting how the car takes on a totally different look when the top is up vs when it's down. The spare is attractively mounted in the rear where it does not disturb the flow of the crowned and flowing fenders. With accommodations for five it has rear-hinged doors for easy access. On the right-hand drivers side we note the Boa Horn, and this car rides on red spoked wheels wrapped with black walls.
Interior
Time worn red leather shows crazing and cracking, but seats retain their cushion like feel, as foam underneath seems solid. Front buckets sit and one can gaze at the burl wood dash with a very clean glass covered instrument panel. An original steering wheel and all the controls are ergonomically positioned for the chauffeur to drive you wherever you'd want to go. A rear bench has picnic tables that are built into the back of the front seats. Sipping champagne while moving steadily along with the top down has never been so good. Warm gray carpet in good condition shows some red trim around it, and a rubber inserted mat is below the driver, also in red. Door panels are clean and have a nifty pouch for all your motoring needs.
Drivetrain
The engine is tidy and has a full complement of the tools and accessories usually stowed under the hood including the wheel wrench, jack and hammer. We see an inline 6-cylinder in 3.7 Liter size, number Q6W. A 4-speed manual transmission is attached to the back and has synchromesh on third and high gears.
Undercarriage
All very clean and rust-free underneath, obviously solid construction remains, or had been refitted, all be it very correctly. The brakes employ power assist, central lubrication keeps the chassis quiet and thermostatically operated grille shutters regulate the engine coolant temperature.
It is an ideal tour car and will bring its next owner entry into the full spectrum of Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club events as well as being a CCCA Full Classic. With a polished bonnet and beautifully worn surfaces that have stood the test of time, this is a true driver.
Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 450 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display.
This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.