The 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith stands as a testament to the elegance and sophistication of pre-war British automotive engineering. This remarkable convertible, crafted by Thrupp & Maberly, has enjoyed a storied history, beginning with its first owner, the English writer Robert Sheriff. Acquired in 1939, Sheriff drove the Wraith through an era of literary and musical brilliance, making it a symbol of refined taste and luxury.
In 1954, Sheriff passed the Wraith to Benjamin Britten, a renowned composer, conductor, and pianist. Under Britten’s ownership, the car continued to reflect the high society lifestyle of its era. The Wraith later came into the possession of British novelist Elleston Trevor before making its way across the Atlantic.
By 1964, the Rolls-Royce found itself in Holyoke, Massachusetts, where it was owned by newspaper distributor Martin Zanger. Recognizing the car’s historical value, Zanger sent the Wraith back to England for a meticulous restoration in 1969. The car remained in his care until 1986, having covered just 5,000 miles during his ownership.
The Wraith was then purchased by car collector Louis Wright, who undertook a remarkable journey to transport the vehicle from Holyoke to Summit, Illinois. This 900-mile trip was completed with minimal issues, demonstrating the enduring reliability of a Rolls-Royce even at nearly 50 years old. The Wraith, powered by a 123bhp 4.3-litre straight-six engine with hydraulic tappets for a whisper-quiet ride, was capable of reaching speeds up to 85mph. Its servo-assisted brakes ensured safe and smooth driving, embodying the luxurious engineering for which Rolls-Royce is famed.
Today, the 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith remains a cherished classic, embodying a rich legacy of elegance and performance. Its journey from literary circles to American car collectors highlights the timeless appeal and enduring quality of this iconic vehicle.
Source: Concours Of Elegance (UK)
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