Some cars carry stories that stretch far beyond the road, and the 1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Cabriolet is one of them. With royal lineage, coachbuilt elegance, and remarkable preservation, this car is a living piece of history. The 1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Cabriolet is more than a classic, it’s a royal artifact on wheels.
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1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Cabriolet With Royal Provenance
This Silver Wraith began life with a purpose fit for royalty. Delivered new to the Belgian Royal Family, it was commissioned for HRH Prince Regent Charles. The car was built on a rolling chassis and sent to Van den Plas, where a bespoke four-door Cabriolet body was crafted in steel and aluminum. Finished in Royal Brown, it was designed for ceremonial use, complete with a steadying cord and shatterproof glass.
A Time Capsule of Elegance and Craftsmanship
From 1948 to 1950, the car served during a pivotal era in Belgian history. Afterward, it passed through a short chain of caretakers, including a royal courtier and his family. Remarkably, it remained in the Belgian Royal Mews for over two decades before joining a private collection in 1973. There, it was dry stored for more than 50 years, preserving its originality in near-perfect condition.
Recommissioned With Care and Respect
Before returning to the road, the Silver Wraith was recommissioned by Ristes Motor Company. The process focused on preservation, not restoration. Even the whitewall tires are believed to be original. Minor paint corrections addressed shipping blemishes from 1973, and the car was road-registered for the first time since 1950.
Performance and Engineering of the 1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Cabriolet
Under the hood lies the original inline-six engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission. While exact performance specs are modest by today’s standards, the engineering was advanced for its time. The car was built for smooth, dignified travel, not speed. Its mechanical integrity remains intact, thanks to careful storage and recent recommissioning.
A Rare Coachbuilt Creation by Van den Plas
This Silver Wraith is one of the final creations by Belgian coachbuilder Van den Plas. Its design reflects a blend of royal formality and post-war elegance. The craftsmanship is evident in every curve and detail. With only 11,106 kilometers on the odometer, it stands as a rare survivor of a bygone era.
Summary
The 1948 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Cabriolet is more than a collector’s item, it’s a royal heirloom with unmatched provenance. With its regal past, coachbuilt body, and preserved originality, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of automotive and royal history.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee the vehicle’s condition or authenticity.
