The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost refers to both a specific car and a model from the 40/50 hp series. Initially called the “40/50 h.p.,” it was produced at Royce’s Manchester factory and later in Derby and Springfield, Massachusetts. The car that became known as the Silver Ghost was chassis no. 60551, registered AX 201. Though many cars in the series had names, the “Silver Ghost” title was popularized by the press and became synonymous with the model. Rolls-Royce officially adopted the name in 1925, when the Phantom series was introduced.
The Silver Ghost earned Rolls-Royce its reputation for making the “best car in the world,” a phrase coined by Autocar magazine in 1907. It was also used as the basis for Rolls-Royce armored cars. In 1923, a Silver Ghost was gifted to President Woodrow Wilson, specially modified for his disability, just weeks before his death.
Key Features and History
Launched in 1907, the Silver Ghost was powered by a 7036cc six-cylinder engine, later increased to 7428cc. Early models used a three-speed transmission, which was upgraded to four-speed by 1913. It featured innovations like a seven-bearing crankshaft and twin spark plugs per cylinder. By 1919, electric lighting and starting were introduced.
During World War I, production was suspended, though the chassis and engine were used for military armored cars. T.E. Lawrence famously used a 1909 Silver Ghost, “Blue Mist,” as his personal staff car during the Arab Revolt.
Despite improvements to its design, the Silver Ghost’s competitors gained ground by the early 1920s, leading to a decline in sales. In 1925, Rolls-Royce launched the Phantom to replace it, and older 40/50 models were retroactively called Silver Ghosts.
A total of 7,874 Silver Ghosts were produced from 1907 to 1926, with 1,701 built at the Springfield factory. Despite its age, many Silver Ghosts are still running today, with some on display at museums like the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu.
In 2018, we had the immense pleasure of welcoming a truly rare and special guest to Corynnia Station—the iconic 1924 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost. This legendary vehicle, known for its timeless elegance and historical significance, graced our outback property for a memorable visit. It was an unforgettable moment that combined classic luxury with the rugged beauty of the Australian outback. Watch the video of that unforgettable journey, and join us in reliving this remarkable moment that brought history and horsepower together at Corynnia Station.
