A Comprehensive Journey Through Rolls-Royce Models: 1904 to Present

The Early Years (1904 – 1925)

Rolls-Royce 10 HP (1904)

The inaugural Rolls-Royce, the 10 HP, was designed by Henry Royce and introduced in 1904 after partnering with Charles Rolls. Featuring a 1,800cc twin-cylinder engine, later expanded to 1,995cc producing 12 HP, it had a three-speed transmission and a top speed of 39 mph. Only 16 units were produced.​

Rolls-Royce 40/50 Silver Ghost (1906 – 1925)

Introduced in 1906, the Silver Ghost featured a 7,036cc engine, later increased to 7,428cc, and was renowned for its reliability and smooth performance. Its reputation as “the best car in the world” was cemented after a 14,371-mile non-stop run.​

Rolls-Royce Twenty (1922 – 1929)

The Twenty was introduced in 1922 as a smaller, more affordable model with a 3,127cc engine. It targeted the owner-driver market and featured advancements like a detachable cylinder head and four-wheel brakes.​

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Pre-War Era (1925 – 1939)

Rolls-Royce 40/50 Phantom I (1925 – 1931)

The Phantom I succeeded the Silver Ghost in 1925, boasting a 7,668cc engine with an aluminum cylinder head, offering improved performance and efficiency. It maintained the brand’s hallmark of luxury and reliability.​

Rolls-Royce 20/25 (1929 – 1936)

Introduced in 1929, the 20/25 featured a 3,669cc engine and became one of Rolls-Royce’s most successful models of the era, appealing to both owner-drivers and those employing chauffeurs.​

Rolls-Royce 25/30 (1936 – 1938)

The 25/30, launched in 1936, came with a larger 4,257cc engine, offering enhanced performance while maintaining the brand’s luxury standards.​

Rolls-Royce Wraith (1938 – 1939)

The Wraith, introduced in 1938, featured a 4,257cc engine with improved suspension and braking systems, marking the last pre-war model before car production halted due to World War II.​

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Post-War Era (1946 – 2003)

Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith (1946 – 1958)

Post-World War II, Rolls-Royce resumed car production with the Silver Wraith in 1946. It featured a 4,257cc engine, later increased to 4,566cc, and was the last model to be supplied as a chassis for coachbuilders.​

Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn (1949 – 1955)

The Silver Dawn, introduced in 1949, was the first Rolls-Royce to be offered with a standard steel body. It featured a 4,257cc engine, later enlarged to 4,566cc, and targeted the export market, especially the United States.​

Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud (1955 – 1966)

The Silver Cloud, launched in 1955, featured a 4.9-liter engine, later expanded to 6.2 liters. It represented a significant design shift with its curvaceous body and improved performance, becoming one of the brand’s most iconic models.​

Rolls-Royce Phantom VI (1968 – 1990)

The Phantom VI, introduced in 1968, was primarily used for state occasions and featured a 6.2-liter V8 engine, later upgraded to 6.75 liters. It was the last Rolls-Royce model to use a separate chassis.​

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Modern Era (2003 – Present)

Rolls-Royce Phantom VII (2003 – 2017)

The Phantom VII, launched in 2003 under BMW ownership, marked a new era for Rolls-Royce. It featured a 6.75-liter V12 engine and advanced technology, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering.​

Rolls-Royce Ghost (2010 – Present)

Introduced in 2010, the Ghost offered a more contemporary and dynamic driving experience while maintaining luxury. It features a 6.6-liter V12 engine and caters to a younger clientele.​

Rolls-Royce Wraith (2013 – Present)

The Wraith, launched in 2013, is a grand tourer with a 6.6-liter V12 engine, offering a blend of performance and luxury, appealing to those seeking a more driver-focused experience.​

Rolls-Royce Cullinan (2018 – Present)

The Cullinan, introduced in 2018, is Rolls-Royce’s first SUV, featuring a 6.75-liter V12 engine and combining luxury with off-road capability, catering to the evolving preferences of luxury car buyers.​

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Conclusion

From the pioneering 10 HP to the contemporary Cullinan, Rolls-Royce has consistently set benchmarks in luxury automobile manufacturing. Each model reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and timeless elegance.