Absolutely agree with you. The modern Rolls-Royce cars are hideous. Vulgar and ostentatious for vulgar and ostentatious people. If you own one of these you don't need to show off.
@Mike8981 Similar, but only Royal state cars use that exact claret and black. Only one company makes it and it's not for sale. Edward VII was the first monarch to use it on his first car.
Friends of ours had a 1954 Silver Dawn and they were kind enough to drive our daughter to and from her wedding here in Ontario, Canada. I've been around classic cars all my life and theirs was the prettiest Rolls I've ever seen. It was two tone, in Metallic Burgundy and Metallic Champagne. We will be eternally grateful to them for adding such a classy touch to our daughters special day!
My Dad owned a 1952 Bentley Mark VI in the early 1970s. It was one of the most comfortable cars I have ever ridden in. In 1972, that (then) 20 year old Bentley took us as a family from the Midlands to the Vendee in France and back. She never missed a beat and romped along those fast French routes nationales at an easy 80 - 90 mph. Being the Bentley and having the higher state of tune she was a genuine 100 mph car. The Auttocar road test of the Bentley in 1952 recorded a top speed of exactly 100 mph - a speed the car would readily reach on the motorway. Very happy memories of that car evoked by your excellent review Steph!
Fabulous car. The older Rolls with the contrast between the bold grill, with stark, crisp, horizontal and vertical lines. Then paired with curves, and rolling bodywork. Simply lovely. Always loved them. Great video, thank you.
@@idriveaclassic Don't worry Steph. It was a joy to see you driving this beautiful car and truly appreciate the quality. Like you, if my lottery, premium bonds and football pools produced the divvy I would have one too. Good luck with the Vanguard, a gentle skim of the head and her will be right.
Thanks Steph. I so thoroughly enjoy your passion for these works of art. Greetings from San Francisco, California, USA. (where I drive a 1974 Jensen Healey)
Hi Steph I get to drive one around Victoria Australia often and you're absolutely right about how well and what a pleasure the Dawn is to drive. I even got the original valve radio going albeit the antenna connection on the turn knob needs fixing next. A great touring car to with tones of character. It makes sense about the kneeling lady which I didn't know. Thanks for the splendid details and the quality of your presentation just keeps getting better. We hope to see you down here one day and I recommend the anual Florence Thompson tour in April for you. "To celebrate the pioneering spirit and contribution of women to Australian motoring"
Recently with great excitement the servicing people came to empty the tank at Jackie Collins house, her sister Dame Collins also arrived to watch and told viewers that Jacqueline was very jealous of her sister as she was much more famous because of dynasty, however Dame Collins became to be very embarrassed and ashamed of what Jacqueline wrote about in her books causing significant friction between the two sisters. Since this difficult time has passed Dame Collins has tried to distance herself from the legacy and ill repute of Jacqueline and her toxic books. Now when asked about her author sister Dame Collins simply ignores the question explaining that it is a personal matter.
A relic of the time when a RR had presence, unlike the hideous obscenities they turn out today. The exterior colour and upholstery are a perfect match.
Couldn't agree more. The modern ones are for people who need to buy what they perceive as class. Most of them are vulgar and ostentatious. Can't stand the starlight roof or anything about them.
@davidjones332 Charles Rolls and Henry Royce must be spinning in their graves. I'm a traditionalist. For nearly 43 years I've been just the second owner of a 1965 Silver Cloud III. In my mind it's the perfect car. I use it most days, keep it properly maintained and the only time it has let me down was with a cylinder head gasket. Starts first time, no computers to go wrong, no twinkly lights or inlaid diamonds, nosealedunits. Just a really good car. I was invited to test drive a Phantom. The door handle was wobbly and the radio shorted out when using the turn indicator. At nearly 70 my old lady will see me out.
Beautiful car and great video drive… ps that foreign company which developed the braking system which RR adopted was Hispano Suiza ( maybe you will drive one for us one day too… )
@ yes I believe thats the case; but most drives I ever seen on here say it isn’t a problem because the system is well designed ( although also read that it needs to be very carefully set up according to spec to work properly )
There's nothing old fashioned about a wonderful and memorable drive. That's what the mascot represents. Grace, pace, elegance and character. All the things we've lost in cars today. Rolls Royce's and Bentleys had it all. I envy you having the chance to take one for a cruise. Just nearby here in Auckland there is a Bentley Mark IV which has been left out in the weather for six years ! Great video Steph. Good luck with the Standard project.
When I think of a Rolls Royce - this is the 'type' I think of. Those kind of squarish bodies, big finders over the wheels, Grill you can see and tell is a Rolls from blocks away. Other then a Rolls built in the 1920's, these to me are some of the most prestigious, stately and most beautiful cars ever build. Nothing like what Rolls or Bentley are cranking out today. Thanks so much for posting this video.
According to an Australian video I watched on a Rolls/Bentley garage recently, the gear stick was placed to the right of the driving position to encourage the driver to enter the car from the near side door to avoid the possibility of being struck by another motorist.
The Swedish columnist and revue writer Kar de Mumma (cardamom) had a black 1951 Silver Dawn for decades, until his driver retired at 85 and he sold the car. He said that he couldn't afford any other car. It was one of the most well known cars in Stockholm.
Steph that was lovely! This was my car for almost 15 years until about a year ago. The brake servo was borrowed from Hispano Suiza working off the gearbox. It drives amazingly, having spent a fortune on the steering and suspension . I got 16 mpg driving from Cheshire to Gloucester in the blistering heat about two years ago and always surprised other drivers at how agile and swiftly it can be driven. I miss it greatly but I was merely a custodian and as a custodian I carefully restored lots of details to try and maintain its feeling and smell of originality. The right man has it now!
A couple of years ago, I met a man with a similar dark blue Royce that had been owned by the actor Dirk Bogarde. That was also a manual, as I recall. They are gorgeous cars, I love the sound of the horn, which seems straight out of black and white films, where people spoke properly. Instinctively, I think I would rather have the Bentley with its more powerful engine, but I suspect that the power difference is insignificant for the type of use it would get these days.
I was wafted about in a Bentley version of this RR when I was boy chorister in the early 1970's. It was owned by a lovely old C of E Provost who was humorous and very kind. I was often taken to Cathedrals some distance away (I seem to remember about a couple of hours or so) so got to really appreciate the car. I was always a 'petrol-head', even as a young-lad and knew enough to know I was travelling in something special.
Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and drive through those countryside lanes in a verity of old fashioned cars, thank you very much Steph you lucky girl 👍👍.
A beautiful car in every way wafting along the road and Steph being so involved that she gets lost! That to me says a lot about the car. Thanks Steph for the video and not a 'Parker' in sight! 👍👍
The late Ivo Peters used the equivalent 4 1/4 lire Bentley to drive around photographing railways, usually the Somerset and Dorset. If train crews saw the Bentley they would try to beat him to the3 nest station. As Ivo, in his younger days had raced at Brooklands, naturally, he relished the challenge!
Absolutely brilliant video, Steph. Love the car. That may be a standard steel body, but it was still a hand built body using very high grade steel of a good thickness. That type of care and attention explains and justifies the very high price. I agree, whoever did the retrim on the front seats did a superb job of it. The pleats should be a bit puffier, but that looks right because the rear seat pleats are a bit flattened with ago. I have to say, as always your outfit is the perfect compliment to both the car and the era from which it comes. You look like a natural behind that wheel. This was not the only Rolls-Royce offered in this era. The Phantom was still available for those wanting a chauffeur driven car.
Love your show! I read that the mechanical brake booster increases its assistance proportionally with the speed of the car as it is powered by a clutch running off the propeller shaft (drive shaft). Brilliant! However, this means at very low speeds it doesn’t help almost at all. Which can be no joke if you’re approaching a stop sign at the bottom of a hill. Picture in your mind, as you slow towards the bottom of the hill the brake effort gets harder and harder. And if another car is already stopped before the sign it will take a hard steady push to slow with no assistance. Now, it may be that the example being tested needed adjustment to the brakes to compensate. I drive a classic almost every day, summer and winter, quite the opposite end of the spectrum from this Rolls Royce: a 1930 Ford Model A Deluxe Roadster. I usually put on 3,000 miles a year. Lots of fun with 40 horsepower, no windows whatsoever (roadster) and canvas folding roof (hood in the UK). Cheers from San Antonio, Texas.
New subscriber sends Greetings from Tucson, Arizona USofA. When I was growing up, there was a Packard Patrician across the street and on the next street was a Lincoln Cosmopolitan, Chrysler Imperial and a Silver Dawn. The owner of the Silver Dawn was a tiny little Lady who always wore a hat and white gloves. It's no more 'old fashioned' than I am.
As an ageing man who is quite happy to own a cheap box on wheels to get from A to B; this car is just fantastic. What a testament to Rolls Royce after the 2nd World War to produce something as beautiful and driver/passenger friendly as this. Stunning! ❤
Hey Steph! Congratulations, you are looking so fantastic these days & the quality of your fabulous videos just gets better & better! Thank you SO MUCH once again for presenting your third Rolls Royce for us to admire, this absolutely stunning Silver Dawn! This majestic motor car is in a class of its own & remains unmatched for elegance, class & style. Next up, you’ll have to showcase an elegant Silver Cloud for us to savour! And please let us know when you’re going to visit us ‘Down Under’ Steph as we’d really roll out the red carpet for you & I’d personally chauffeur you around in my grand old lady here in stunningly beautiful Tasmania! 😊
Steph, my dad had a Wolseley 6/90 that had a right hand gear lever. Great fun, not when he tried to teach mum to drive. We also lived on a steep narrow road. Result “expected”. Belmont N.Z.
I would say that this is the last Royce that I actually like! They got bigger and more bulbous after this, without the charming proportions of this! Personally I prefer the Bentley Mark Six version, just because I prefer the Bentley radiator at the front. In essential details they are practically the same machine. But I do prefer an SU carburettor or two to any other style. Best wishes from George
Wonderful video Steph of a truly wonderful and gracious car. So well built,superbly restored and finished in a remarkable colour. She drives a treat and very fitting that you were behind the wheel , however I'd expect a lady like yourself,would be riding in the rear driven by your chauffeur. I look forward to more wonderful videos.
I acquired a 52 MK VI a couple years back and absolutely love it! Of the classics in my stable, the MK VI is by far my favorite. You’d be surprised by its comfortable and reliability.
I was very surprised at the fast and solidly precise steering of the car as it was being driven, especially considering its age. I would have set the suspension on "Normal" though as it looked way to choppy going down the road for a Rolls Royce. It is a beautiful automobile. :)
We have the Vintage Grand Prix/car show in Pittsburgh PA where I grew up. There was a lineup every year of 1950s Rolls Royce and Bentleys at the show. Seeing a mid 50s car with air conditioning was quite unusual.
Just a brilliant review and very comprehensive. I will admit that over the last five years + I have nearly bought two of these (not together!) as I have loved them from afar so much but doubted myself. Having watched and listened to you I realise how mistaken I was. Next year I shall look again. I cannot take it with me St. Rachel will see to that!
So much stuff, Steph! Your research is incredible +conveyed in such an engaging +relaxed style. And good grief, your driving skills when you set off on your test drive of this grand old lady - watching this it felt like you were piloting the Queen Mary down narrow country lanes with nonchalant panache as you continued your commentary totally unfazed. And a shoutout to whoever does your camera work - great job!
Too many years ago when I was 17 I was offered a choice of over a dozen late 40s early 50s Rolls and Bentleys for £150 each all were mechanically sound but needed varying degrees of body repair, How I wish Id had £150 and the skills I have now
One beautiful looking roller I bet you enjoyed. Driving it cheers g g boyle nz.
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Beauty of a car, it kind of reminds me of my Grandfather's Alvis Silver Crest (I think, the '50s are a long time ago when I was a Small boy), which I wish I had now, Great vid, Steph, many thanks. ;-)
I was lucky enough to drive this very car in France this summer on a car tour that many of us went on, it really is a fabulous car. Well done Steph on such a nice review of David's car.
Very nice road test...I did have the occasion to ride in the 1954 Bentley equivalent (here in the States), in 1993. My Dad, who specialized in British car and motorcycle repair/restoration, had one in his shop, and four of us went out to dinner one night. Even though the example was rather rough (in need of resto), it was supremely comfortable, riding in the back; my Dad referring to his auto-resto partner as "Jeeves". It was a four-speed model, as I recall...Thanks for taking us along for the ride; and I hope the Standard repairs are going well!
Another great video, Steph. Thank you. The right-hand gearshift was usual among prestige cars until the 1940s. When Rolls-Royce introduced the "small" 20 hp car in 1922 with a central gearchange, there were howls of protest from their conservative clientele at this "Americanism" and they swiftly reverted to the right-hand change for RHD cars. It was indeed intended that the driver enter from the kerbside, and early Mk VI and R-type Bentleys don't have an external lock on the driver's door, just one on the passenger's
Hi Steph, love your youtube series and your style! I was looking for something 50s to carry 4 people as I'm bored with having to use a modern if there are more than two of us, and had to be able to work in modern traffic i.e not be in the way! I've just bought a Bentley Mk VI (similar to the Dawn, but perhaps more proletarian 😊) - agree with all of your comments.
what a truely elegant Rolls Royce and I enjoyed this video very much and if I won the lotto I would own one in a flash and a hole lot of other great classics too.
A great learning curve, I have only seen but never driven one of these. We both really enjoyed this, however, it would have been nice to know if the heater was anygood and what the suspension felt like in the other setting. Other than this a fantastic review and great to see. If I had one of these it would have to be auto, especially living in the gridlocked Southeast. Last but not least a big thank you to the owner for letting the world see his wonderful piece of motoring history. Cheers
Beautiful car great enjoyable video Steph, Oh so quiet to I noticed! Just beautiful I think she would cruise beautifully and in silence on a Modern motorway at an easy 70 mph! One of those cars that gives you a special sense of occasion whenever you drive it, I have a 21 year old Jaguar XJ8 that feels like that, you should try one if you get the opportunity, I'd love to get your impressions in a video!, I'd happily lend you mine but I live in Australia!😂 keep up the great work Steph and good luck with the old Standard 10 All the Best😊
I too have a 'W' reg XJ8 mine is a 24 years old. I also have a 1970 Bentley T1 ❤🎉. I love old cars. My everyday car is a Lexus 300gs that is 24 years old and in good condition.
Another knockout review of a legendary car! My favorite is still the Silver Cloud, but this is so beautiful. Love the period correct USB ports by the vanity mirror. 😂
I remember driving the Bently version of this car. It had the same manual change. In fact, it was very similar inside. I was amazed at how nice it was to drive, just like you say in the video. I have driven 1950s American cars and there is no contest here.
Wonderful video Steph , you really look the part !.That overseas company was Hispano-Suiza, who developed an ingenious gearbox driven servo-motor that gave brake assistance when the ( rear ) wheels are turning .Hope to see you at the NEC !.
Beautiful car, I prefer classic vehicles as they all look different and I do love a chrome bumper and the sound of the doors closing. The only thing I would love from a modern vehicle is the Aircon😊
Hands down my favorite post-war Rolls-Royce! I'd happily trade my Shadow for a Dawn! Also, I think Hispano-Suiza is who designed the servo-assist brakes.
If these classics could see their modern day offspring, they would cry.
For sure!
However, because of the modern masters and mistresses as well!
Sweeeeet 😂
Absolutely agree with you. The modern Rolls-Royce cars are hideous. Vulgar and ostentatious for vulgar and ostentatious people. If you own one of these you don't need to show off.
Once the Germans took over Rolls and Bentley both brands lost their class.
@@matthewbeesley5850 The Mulsanne was probably the last tasteful Bentley.
What a GLORIOUS colour! Really suits that car.
Did the Royal family not use this colour?
@Mike8981 Similar, but only Royal state cars use that exact claret and black. Only one company makes it and it's not for sale. Edward VII was the first monarch to use it on his first car.
Friends of ours had a 1954 Silver Dawn and they were kind enough to drive our daughter to and from her wedding here in Ontario, Canada. I've been around classic cars all my life and theirs was the prettiest Rolls I've ever seen. It was two tone, in Metallic Burgundy and Metallic Champagne. We will be eternally grateful to them for adding such a classy touch to our daughters special day!
My Dad owned a 1952 Bentley Mark VI in the early 1970s. It was one of the most comfortable cars I have ever ridden in. In 1972, that (then) 20 year old Bentley took us as a family from the Midlands to the Vendee in France and back. She never missed a beat and romped along those fast French routes nationales at an easy 80 - 90 mph. Being the Bentley and having the higher state of tune she was a genuine 100 mph car. The Auttocar road test of the Bentley in 1952 recorded a top speed of exactly 100 mph - a speed the car would readily reach on the motorway. Very happy memories of that car evoked by your excellent review Steph!
Golly you sure were fortunate.
I was born in 1950 and I must say the Rolls has held up better than me. Dash is a work of art. Many thanks Steph.
Truly magnificent machine in every sense of the word.
Thank you Vince. I agree!
Fabulous car. The older Rolls with the contrast between the bold grill, with stark, crisp, horizontal and vertical lines. Then paired with curves, and rolling bodywork. Simply lovely. Always loved them. Great video, thank you.
Well said!
@@idriveaclassic The RR grille, as I understand it, was fashioned after the Parthenon in Athens.
Looking damn glam in that coat - very Bond Girl!
Perhaps my aging ears but this vid seemed a wee bit on the quiet side at the beginning?
It’s all set to my usual volume levels. How bizarre! X
@@glennmckenzie1096 I agree. Excellent content but I had to listen twice.
💯💯💯💯💯💯
@@idriveaclassic Don't worry Steph. It was a joy to see you driving this beautiful car and truly appreciate the quality. Like you, if my lottery, premium bonds and football pools produced the divvy I would have one too. Good luck with the Vanguard, a gentle skim of the head and her will be right.
Thanks Steph. I so thoroughly enjoy your passion for these works of art. Greetings from San Francisco, California, USA. (where I drive a 1974 Jensen Healey)
Aw wow! What a car to be enjoying life in!
Hi Steph
I get to drive one around Victoria Australia often and you're absolutely right about how well and what a pleasure the Dawn is to drive. I even got the original valve radio going albeit the antenna connection on the turn knob needs fixing next. A great touring car to with tones of character. It makes sense about the kneeling lady which I didn't know. Thanks for the splendid details and the quality of your presentation just keeps getting better. We hope to see you down here one day and I recommend the anual Florence Thompson tour in April for you. "To celebrate the pioneering spirit and contribution of women to Australian motoring"
I didn’t know about this tour! Please may you email me some details? Thank you x
Excellent! From another Aussie in FNQ 🇦🇺🇦🇺
you are putting out better content all the time steph , good show 👏
You’re too kind. Thank you x
@@idriveaclassiccredit where credits due 😊
You know you are old when a classic car was made the year after you were born!
You are both Classics then!
Another great car video. 👍
For a moment at the start, I thought you where going to say “Hi my name is Steph and I’ve won the Lottery”
This is the third Rolls-Royce you have reviewed over the years. Beautiful car and now highly collectable!
Recently with great excitement the servicing people came to empty the tank at Jackie Collins house, her sister Dame Collins also arrived to watch and told viewers that Jacqueline was very jealous of her sister as she was much more famous because of dynasty, however Dame Collins became to be very embarrassed and ashamed of what Jacqueline wrote about in her books causing significant friction between the two sisters. Since this difficult time has passed Dame Collins has tried to distance herself from the legacy and ill repute of Jacqueline and her toxic books. Now when asked about her author sister Dame Collins simply ignores the question explaining that it is a personal matter.
Now that car suits you M,lady.
The quarter lite has what glazers call a capilory , beautiful touch of practical use of gravity. Love your videos 😊
A relic of the time when a RR had presence, unlike the hideous obscenities they turn out today. The exterior colour and upholstery are a perfect match.
Couldn't agree more. The modern ones are for people who need to buy what they perceive as class. Most of them are vulgar and ostentatious. Can't stand the starlight roof or anything about them.
@@michaelmontagu3979 A few days ago I saw two of them together which were finished in matt black and metallic blue -revolting!
@davidjones332 Charles Rolls and Henry Royce must be spinning in their graves. I'm a traditionalist. For nearly 43 years I've been just the second owner of a 1965 Silver Cloud III. In my mind it's the perfect car. I use it most days, keep it properly maintained and the only time it has let me down was with a cylinder head gasket. Starts first time, no computers to go wrong, no twinkly lights or inlaid diamonds, nosealedunits. Just a really good car. I was invited to test drive a Phantom. The door handle was wobbly and the radio shorted out when using the turn indicator. At nearly 70 my old lady will see me out.
That SUV thing they make today. OMG.
@@stephenholland5930 Perfect for a very ostentatious hearse.
Beautiful car and great video drive… ps that foreign company which developed the braking system which RR adopted was Hispano Suiza ( maybe you will drive one for us one day too… )
No power assistance below 12 mph or so??
@ yes I believe thats the case; but most drives I ever seen on here say it isn’t a problem because the system is well designed ( although also read that it needs to be very carefully set up according to spec to work properly )
There's nothing old fashioned about a wonderful and memorable drive. That's what the mascot represents. Grace, pace, elegance and character. All the things we've lost in cars today. Rolls Royce's and Bentleys had it all. I envy you having the chance to take one for a cruise. Just nearby here in Auckland there is a Bentley Mark IV which has been left out in the weather for six years ! Great video Steph. Good luck with the Standard project.
Rolls Royce always been that sign of class and British craftmanship
the ‘proper’ ones, yes
When I think of a Rolls Royce - this is the 'type' I think of. Those kind of squarish bodies, big finders over the wheels, Grill you can see and tell is a Rolls from blocks away. Other then a Rolls built in the 1920's, these to me are some of the most prestigious, stately and most beautiful cars ever build. Nothing like what Rolls or Bentley are cranking out today. Thanks so much for posting this video.
Absolutely fabulous. Great find.
Many thanks!
According to an Australian video I watched on a Rolls/Bentley garage recently, the gear stick was placed to the right of the driving position to encourage the driver to enter the car from the near side door to avoid the possibility of being struck by another motorist.
Lovely car, with a very nice interior, especially with the woodwork Thanks for sharing Steph. 😊👍
Thanks for finding time in your busy ‘restoring a Landy’ life to watch the vids my lovely
@@idriveaclassic always a pleasure Steph 😊
The Swedish columnist and revue writer Kar de Mumma (cardamom) had a black 1951 Silver Dawn for decades, until his driver retired at 85 and he sold the car. He said that he couldn't afford any other car. It was one of the most well known cars in Stockholm.
Steph that was lovely! This was my car for almost 15 years until about a year ago. The brake servo was borrowed from Hispano Suiza working off the gearbox. It drives amazingly, having spent a fortune on the steering and suspension .
I got 16 mpg driving from Cheshire to Gloucester in the blistering heat about two years ago and always surprised other
drivers at how agile and swiftly it can be driven. I miss it greatly but I was merely a custodian and as a custodian I carefully restored lots of details to try and maintain its feeling and smell of originality. The right man has it now!
A couple of years ago, I met a man with a similar dark blue Royce that had been owned by the actor Dirk Bogarde. That was also a manual, as I recall. They are gorgeous cars, I love the sound of the horn, which seems straight out of black and white films, where people spoke properly. Instinctively, I think I would rather have the Bentley with its more powerful engine, but I suspect that the power difference is insignificant for the type of use it would get these days.
The Bentley is quicker on the uptake , with the same engine but twin carburettors . A different character.
Can you imagine in the back of this car together with your love, driving in the rain on a dark night, driven by your driver to your home.
I was wafted about in a Bentley version of this RR when I was boy chorister in the early 1970's. It was owned by a lovely old C of E Provost who was humorous and very kind. I was often taken to Cathedrals some distance away (I seem to remember about a couple of hours or so) so got to really appreciate the car. I was always a 'petrol-head', even as a young-lad and knew enough to know I was travelling in something special.
Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and drive through those countryside lanes in a verity of old fashioned cars, thank you very much Steph you lucky girl 👍👍.
A beautiful car in every way wafting along the road and Steph being so involved that she gets lost! That to me says a lot about the car. Thanks Steph for the video and not a 'Parker' in sight! 👍👍
A thing of great beauty. Thanks for sharing 👍.
The late Ivo Peters used the equivalent 4 1/4 lire Bentley to drive around photographing railways, usually the Somerset and Dorset. If train crews saw the Bentley they would try to beat him to the3 nest station. As Ivo, in his younger days had raced at Brooklands, naturally, he relished the challenge!
Glorious motorcar. Thanks for sharing its wonders with us, Steph!
No matter how old they are,Rolls Royce is a masterful beauty of a car !
i really appreciate your knowledge of history both general and automotive. really adds to the quality of your reviews.
Absolutely brilliant video, Steph. Love the car. That may be a standard steel body, but it was still a hand built body using very high grade steel of a good thickness. That type of care and attention explains and justifies the very high price. I agree, whoever did the retrim on the front seats did a superb job of it. The pleats should be a bit puffier, but that looks right because the rear seat pleats are a bit flattened with ago. I have to say, as always your outfit is the perfect compliment to both the car and the era from which it comes. You look like a natural behind that wheel.
This was not the only Rolls-Royce offered in this era. The Phantom was still available for those wanting a chauffeur driven car.
Love your show! I read that the mechanical brake booster increases its assistance proportionally with the speed of the car as it is powered by a clutch running off the propeller shaft (drive shaft). Brilliant! However, this means at very low speeds it doesn’t help almost at all. Which can be no joke if you’re approaching a stop sign at the bottom of a hill. Picture in your mind, as you slow towards the bottom of the hill the brake effort gets harder and harder. And if another car is already stopped before the sign it will take a hard steady push to slow with no assistance. Now, it may be that the example being tested needed adjustment to the brakes to compensate.
I drive a classic almost every day, summer and winter, quite the opposite end of the spectrum from this Rolls Royce: a 1930 Ford Model A Deluxe Roadster. I usually put on 3,000 miles a year. Lots of fun with 40 horsepower, no windows whatsoever (roadster) and canvas folding roof (hood in the UK).
Cheers from San Antonio, Texas.
Beautiful car Steph. A classic Rolls Royce is one of the best! And your review is also one of the best.
New subscriber sends Greetings from Tucson, Arizona USofA.
When I was growing up, there was a Packard Patrician across the street and on
the next street was a Lincoln Cosmopolitan, Chrysler Imperial and a Silver Dawn.
The owner of the Silver Dawn was a tiny little Lady who always wore a hat and white gloves.
It's no more 'old fashioned' than I am.
As an ageing man who is quite happy to own a cheap box on wheels to get from A to B; this car is just fantastic. What a testament to Rolls Royce after the 2nd World War to produce something as beautiful and driver/passenger friendly as this. Stunning! ❤
Hey Steph! Congratulations, you are looking so fantastic these days & the quality of your fabulous videos just gets better & better!
Thank you SO MUCH once again for presenting your third Rolls Royce for us to admire, this absolutely stunning Silver Dawn! This majestic motor car is in a class of its own & remains unmatched for elegance, class & style. Next up, you’ll have to showcase an elegant Silver Cloud for us to savour!
And please let us know when you’re going to visit us ‘Down Under’ Steph as we’d really roll out the red carpet for you & I’d personally chauffeur you around in my grand old lady here in stunningly beautiful Tasmania! 😊
Steph, my dad had a Wolseley 6/90 that had a right hand gear lever. Great fun, not when he tried to teach mum to drive. We also lived on a steep narrow road. Result “expected”. Belmont N.Z.
Beautiful. Great review, Steph!
Thanks so much!
I would say that this is the last Royce that I actually like! They got bigger and more bulbous after this, without the charming proportions of this!
Personally I prefer the Bentley Mark Six version, just because I prefer the Bentley radiator at the front. In essential details they are practically the same machine. But I do prefer an SU carburettor or two to any other style.
Best wishes from George
I also prefer an SU 😂😂
Wonderful video Steph of a truly wonderful and gracious car. So well built,superbly restored and finished in a remarkable colour. She drives a treat and very fitting that you were behind the wheel , however I'd expect a lady like yourself,would be riding in the rear driven by your chauffeur. I look forward to more wonderful videos.
I acquired a 52 MK VI a couple years back and absolutely love it! Of the classics in my stable, the MK VI is by far my favorite. You’d be surprised by its comfortable and reliability.
I was very surprised at the fast and solidly precise steering of the car as it was being driven, especially considering its age. I would have set the suspension on "Normal" though as it looked way to choppy going down the road for a Rolls Royce. It is a beautiful automobile. :)
Majestic, Absolutely Beautiful Car 🤩!!!!!
We have the Vintage Grand Prix/car show in Pittsburgh PA where I grew up. There was a lineup every year of 1950s Rolls Royce and Bentleys at the show. Seeing a mid 50s car with air conditioning was quite unusual.
I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your channel! It’s a bright spot in my day when you post a new video. Thanks so much from Kansas, USA!
Fabulous car and some lovely countryside too.
Peak Rolls Royce ❤
Really is! Much preferred it to the later big boys.
Just a brilliant review and very comprehensive.
I will admit that over the last five years + I have nearly bought two of these (not together!) as I have loved them from afar so much but doubted myself. Having watched and listened to you I realise how mistaken I was. Next year I shall look again. I cannot take it with me St. Rachel will see to that!
A cracking review of a great car Steph. An opulent car that the owner would drive. How times have changed. Thank you for sharing.
So much stuff, Steph! Your research is incredible +conveyed in such an engaging +relaxed style. And good grief, your driving skills when you set off on your test drive of this grand old lady - watching this it felt like you were piloting the Queen Mary down narrow country lanes with nonchalant panache as you continued your commentary totally unfazed. And a shoutout to whoever does your camera work - great job!
Too many years ago when I was 17 I was offered a choice of over a dozen late 40s early 50s Rolls and Bentleys for £150 each all were mechanically sound but needed varying degrees of body repair, How I wish Id had £150 and the skills I have now
I had a chance to buy a 1954 Rolls Royce, for $12,000. Really wish I had, it drove great!
Still want one!
I would love to be blessed with one of does beutyfull cars from 1950! I am also a model 1950, ha, ha, ha.
One beautiful looking roller I bet you enjoyed. Driving it cheers g g boyle nz.
Beauty of a car, it kind of reminds me of my Grandfather's Alvis Silver Crest (I think, the '50s are a long time ago when I was a Small boy), which I wish I had now, Great vid, Steph, many thanks. ;-)
She is a treasure, I appreciate this channel so much 🙏🏼
I was lucky enough to drive this very car in France this summer on a car tour that many of us went on, it really is a fabulous car. Well done Steph on such a nice review of David's car.
Very nice road test...I did have the occasion to ride in the 1954 Bentley equivalent (here in the States), in 1993. My Dad, who specialized in British car and motorcycle repair/restoration, had one in his shop, and four of us went out to dinner one night. Even though the example was rather rough (in need of resto), it was supremely comfortable, riding in the back; my Dad referring to his auto-resto partner as "Jeeves". It was a four-speed model, as I recall...Thanks for taking us along for the ride; and I hope the Standard repairs are going well!
Another great video, Steph. Thank you. The right-hand gearshift was usual among prestige cars until the 1940s. When Rolls-Royce introduced the "small" 20 hp car in 1922 with a central gearchange, there were howls of protest from their conservative clientele at this "Americanism" and they swiftly reverted to the right-hand change for RHD cars. It was indeed intended that the driver enter from the kerbside, and early Mk VI and R-type Bentleys don't have an external lock on the driver's door, just one on the passenger's
What a beautiful car, ahead of it's time
Great find, great video. Thanks!
She's just Elegant.
Car's not bad either.
Hi Steph, love your youtube series and your style! I was looking for something 50s to carry 4 people as I'm bored with having to use a modern if there are more than two of us, and had to be able to work in modern traffic i.e not be in the way! I've just bought a Bentley Mk VI (similar to the Dawn, but perhaps more proletarian 😊) - agree with all of your comments.
Woodwork looks beautiful. I bet it smells nice inside as well.
Absolutely lovely, Steph .
what a truely elegant Rolls Royce and I enjoyed this video very much and if I won the lotto I would own one in a flash and a hole lot of other great classics too.
A great learning curve, I have only seen but never driven one of these. We both really enjoyed this, however, it would have been nice to know if the heater was anygood and what the suspension felt like in the other setting. Other than this a fantastic review and great to see.
If I had one of these it would have to be auto, especially living in the gridlocked Southeast.
Last but not least a big thank you to the owner for letting the world see his wonderful piece of motoring history.
Cheers
The rear legroom is amazing!
Beautiful car great enjoyable video Steph, Oh so quiet to I noticed! Just beautiful I think she would cruise beautifully and in silence on a Modern motorway at an easy 70 mph! One of those cars that gives you a special sense of occasion whenever you drive it, I have a 21 year old Jaguar XJ8 that feels like that, you should try one if you get the opportunity, I'd love to get your impressions in a video!, I'd happily lend you mine but I live in Australia!😂 keep up the great work Steph and good luck with the old Standard 10 All the Best😊
I too have a 'W' reg XJ8 mine is a 24 years old. I also have a 1970 Bentley T1 ❤🎉. I love old cars. My everyday car is a Lexus 300gs that is 24 years old and in good condition.
What a wonderfully stylish car. Majestic.
What a stunning car. A thoroughly enjoyable video. Thank you very much.
Fab video Steph. As always. Stellar content!
Love from Italy 💚
Looking as stylish as ever Steph. Like Lady Penelope.
Another knockout review of a legendary car! My favorite is still the Silver Cloud, but this is so beautiful. Love the period correct USB ports by the vanity mirror. 😂
Splendid motor car and a very enjoyable video
Now that’s an automobile❤
Very interesting informative video Thankyou
It’s very beautiful Steph thankyou as always its a treat
Beautiful car, well presented
I remember driving the Bently version of this car. It had the same manual change. In fact, it was very similar inside. I was amazed at how nice it was to drive, just like you say in the video. I have driven 1950s American cars and there is no contest here.
I have the privilege of knowing the former owner who restored it. Its an exquisite vehicle.
A classy lady with a classic car.A beautiful combination.
Looking fabulous as ever Steph 🎉
Just glorious ❤
Lovely car!
Steph...no one EVER loses their way in a Roller!...it's the Law of the West! Once again, very well presented.
YOUR PERSONAL REFLECTION ON THE CAR BODY AS YOU VIDEO IS MOST INTERESTING
Wonderful video Steph , you really look the part !.That overseas company was Hispano-Suiza, who developed an ingenious gearbox driven servo-motor that gave brake assistance when the ( rear ) wheels are turning .Hope to see you at the NEC !.
Great review. you,ve got a new fan !
Two super Ladies.
Beautiful car, I prefer classic vehicles as they all look different and I do love a chrome bumper and the sound of the doors closing. The only thing I would love from a modern vehicle is the Aircon😊
For the last 43 years I have been the second owner of a 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III. No fancy electronics but it does have air-conditioning.
Superb motor car 👍
Beautiful car great lines i could see myself driving one if i had that kind of money.great content keep them coming.
Hands down my favorite post-war Rolls-Royce! I'd happily trade my Shadow for a Dawn! Also, I think Hispano-Suiza is who designed the servo-assist brakes.