The Silver Cloud II was introduced as a successor to the Silver Cloud I, building upon its predecessor's design but incorporating several notable improvements. The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I engine had effectively run its course by 1959 and could not be developed any further. The approximate 160bhp power output was more than sufficient but due to pressures and competition elsewhere Rolls-Royce sought out an improved power unit to deliver more speed whilst retaining the refined performance. The answer was a complete move away from the six-cylinder inline engine configuration, to an all new V8 engine boasting 6,230cc and an estimated 200bhp, boosting the power by nearly 25%. It had been developed at Crewe for some years prior and was an immediate success. It was constructed almost entirely in aluminium and was of a very similar weight to the Silver Cloud I engine but featured hydraulic tappets to ensure quiet running. A few other mechanical aspects were modified including the braking and lubrication systems, with automatic transmission and power steering now standard fittings, making the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II a motor car capable of far higher cruising speeds than ever before. The car was equipped with independent front suspension using coil springs, and a semi-elliptic leaf spring setup at the rear. This combination ensured a comfortable and stable ride, typical of Rolls-Royce's focus on luxury.
The interior of the Silver Cloud II was a testament to Rolls-Royce's dedication to luxury. It featured the highest quality leather upholstery, power windows, detailed wood veneers, and thick carpeting. Many Silver Cloud IIs were bespoke, tailored to the specific tastes and requirements of their owners, with numerous options for interior finishes and features. Radford were available to assist with such individual requirements, if you wanted an electric shaver, a picnic set of a fold out bed, they were the company to speak to.
During its production run from 1959 to 1962, approximately 2,400 Silver Cloud IIs were built, including both standard steel saloon and coachbuilt versions. The car quickly became popular among the elite, embodying the opulence and engineering excellence associated with the Rolls-Royce brand. It was known for its smooth ride, superior craftsmanship, and elegant design.
Of the coachbuilt options available at the time, a limited number of cars were adapted at the H.J. Mulliner works in Chiswick to design number 7504, retaining the basic lines of the coachwork in the form of a very elegant drophead coupe. The correct term for this rare and desirable motor car is an “Adaptation” by H.J. Mulliner and should not be confused with cars that have subsequently been converted in more recent times. This design also represented a rarity, with the left hand drive production being far greater than the number of right hand drive cars built, with this model specifically aimed at buyers in warmer parts of the world, Miami, Monaco and other similar destinations.
Thoughts from Frank Dale
The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II signified a bold but necessary step for Rolls-Royce when introducing the V8 engine. It kept the company at the forefront of the luxury car production market, appealing especially to the huge US market. At a glance, it’s hard to tell a Silver Cloud II saloon apart from its predecessor, but once behind the wheel the difference is clearly felt. A well-prepared Silver Cloud II is an excellent long distance touring car, with ample power, smooth performance, a very comfortable driving experience and excellent luggage capacity. It will be remembered as an icon of late 1950s and early 1960s luxury motoring, with many famous names from show business taking delivery of their own Silver Cloud II. Its introduction of the V8 engine set a new standard for Rolls-Royce performance and established a legacy that continued in subsequent models.