In a dazzling display of automotive history and regal extravagance, a 1913 Rolls-Royce 40/50 Silver Ghost, once the prized possession of Bhupendra Singh, the Maharaja of Patiala, rolled into the spotlight, fetching a princely sum of DKK 3,910,000 (INR 4.69 crore) at a Danish auction in September 2015. This mechanical marvel, with coachwork by H. J. Mulliner, boasts a chassis number 2517 and an engine number 17P, symbolizing a blend of luxury and legacy.
Under its hood lies a 7,428 cc L-Head Inline 6-cylinder engine, capable of a stately 50 bhp at 1,500 rpm. Paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and equipped with a 4-wheel leaf spring suspension and rear drum brakes, this Silver Ghost was a testament to early 20th-century engineering prowess.
The Rolls-Royce 40/50HP Silver Ghost, a brainchild of Henry Royce, emerged as an icon of automotive excellence. Debuting at the 1906 Olympia Motor Show, this model evolved over the years, increasing its engine size and power, ultimately cementing its status as “the Best Car in the World.” Known for its reliability, silent operation, and smooth ride, it became a symbol of high societal status.
The car in question, chassis 2517, was first tested on 30 July 1913 and later delivered to Maharaja Bhupendra Singh on 8 December 1913. The Maharaja, a figure larger than life, served as a colonel in the First World War and was known for his lavish lifestyle, which included an impressive collection of Rolls-Royce cars and even an aircraft.
Chassis 2517 remained in India for over six decades until its discovery in 1970 by Charles Howard, a renowned British automobile dealer. It underwent a meticulous restoration, changing hands among notable collectors, including the Hon. Alan Clark M.P. and American Rolls-Royce aficionado Richard J. Solove, before its eventual sale.
Today, this Rolls-Royce stands not just as a vehicle, but as a moving testament to a bygone era of royal opulence and mechanical mastery. Its recent acquisition at a hefty price tag is a fitting tribute to its historical significance and the timeless allure of the Rolls-Royce legacy.
