A Timeless Expression of British Elegance, Prestige and Automotive Excellence

Few names in motoring history command the same respect, admiration and prestige as Rolls-Royce. For more than a century, the marque has represented the very pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship, engineering excellence and refined luxury. The magnificent 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 belongs to an extraordinary period in British motoring, when owning a Rolls-Royce was not simply a reflection of wealth, but a statement of distinction, social standing and impeccable taste. With its majestic proportions, unmistakable radiator grille and celebrated Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, the 20/25 embodies the elegance and grandeur of an era when motor cars were individually crafted works of art, destined for the carriageways of grand estates, fashionable city streets and the finest establishments of the British Empire.

Introduced in 1929 as the successor to the highly regarded 20hp model, the Rolls-Royce 20/25 quickly established itself as one of the company’s most successful pre-war motor cars. Powered by a beautifully engineered 3.7-litre straight-six engine, it combined exceptional mechanical refinement with smooth, dignified performance and the legendary quietness for which Rolls-Royce had become internationally renowned. As was customary during this distinguished period, Rolls-Royce supplied the chassis and mechanical components, while specialist coachbuilders were commissioned to create individual bodies according to the preferences and requirements of their discerning clientele. The result was an extraordinary variety of elegant saloons, limousines and touring motor cars, each reflecting the craftsmanship, individuality and understated sophistication that defined the marque.

Today, the Rolls-Royce 20/25 represents far more than an important chapter in automotive history. It is a surviving reminder of an age of remarkable craftsmanship, traditional British aristocratic elegance and engineering standards that helped establish Rolls-Royce’s enduring reputation as the maker of the world’s finest motor cars. With its graceful presence, distinguished heritage and unmistakable character, the 20/25 continues to attract collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the historical significance and individuality of pre-war luxury motoring. More than ninety years after its creation, this magnificent Rolls-Royce remains a symbol of timeless prestige, a motor car whose dignity, craftsmanship and unmistakable presence transcend generations and passing fashions.

Coachwork by Mann Egerton – A Distinguished Example of Pre-War British Motoring Excellence!

Few motor cars embody the grace, prestige and sophistication of a bygone era quite like the magnificent 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25. Built during a period when craftsmanship took precedence over production speed, these extraordinary motor cars represented the very finest traditions of British engineering and coachbuilding. More than ninety years later, the 20/25 remains an enduring symbol of refinement, elegance and understated luxury, a motor car created for those who appreciated exceptional quality and the very best that money could buy.

Our particular example is an exceptionally appealing motor car, featuring beautifully proportioned saloon coachwork by the renowned British coachbuilder Mann Egerton. Finished in elegant black with a beautifully appointed beige leather interior and magnificent walnut timber veneers, it presents as a remarkably well-preserved example of this celebrated model. Its graceful proportions, distinguished appearance and impressive overall condition reflect the careful stewardship and attention it has received throughout its life.

Unlike heavily restored examples that can sometimes lose much of their original character, this Rolls-Royce retains a wonderful sense of authenticity. The beautifully presented coachwork, traditional interior appointments and honest engine compartment combine to create a motor car that feels entirely appropriate to its period. Clearly cherished by its long-term enthusiast owner, it offers its next custodian the opportunity to acquire a distinguished pre-war Rolls-Royce with considerable character, presence and historical appeal.

Vehicle Highlights

• 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Saloon, representing one of the marque’s most respected and successful pre-war models.
• Elegant coachwork by Mann Egerton, a distinguished British coachbuilder renowned for quality and traditional craftsmanship.
• Beautifully presented black exterior, perfectly complementing the Rolls-Royce’s stately proportions and timeless appearance.
• Deep, attractive paint finish, highlighting the flowing lines and quality of the coachwork.
• Straight, well-aligned body panels, with excellent panel fit and a reassuring sense of structural integrity.
• Magnificent Rolls-Royce radiator and Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, providing the unmistakable identity of this prestigious marque.
• Excellent chrome, brightwork and polished metal fittings, presenting beautifully throughout.
• Numerous correct period features, including traditional headlamps, wheel discs, rear-mounted spare wheel, luggage accommodation and original-style exterior fittings.
• Beautifully appointed beige leather interior, offering generous accommodation in an atmosphere of traditional British luxury.
• Rich walnut timber veneers, displaying beautiful natural grain and warmth throughout the cabin.
• Original rear passenger picnic tables and vanity fittings, reflecting the remarkable attention to detail associated with Rolls-Royce coachbuilt motor cars.
• Exceptionally tidy interior presentation, with upholstery, carpets, timber and fittings all reflecting careful preservation.
• Well-presented and honest engine compartment, retaining an appropriate period appearance without unnecessary cosmetic over-restoration.
• Legendary Rolls-Royce 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine, celebrated for its smoothness, mechanical refinement and relaxed touring characteristics.
• Traditional artillery-style wheels and classic tyres, complementing the car’s authentic pre-war appearance.
• Long-term enthusiast ownership, with clear evidence of attentive care and preservation.
• An outstanding candidate for Rolls-Royce club activities, prestigious motoring events, concours displays and classic touring rallies.
• A distinguished and highly collectible pre-war motor car, ready to be appreciated and enjoyed by its next custodian.

Coachwork and Exterior Presentation

The quality of the coachwork is one of the defining characteristics of this magnificent Rolls-Royce. Mann Egerton was among the respected British firms entrusted with creating individually crafted bodies for prestigious chassis, and this saloon demonstrates the restrained elegance and beautifully balanced proportions associated with traditional coachbuilding.

Finished in classic black, the car possesses a dignified and commanding presence. The deep gloss of the paintwork beautifully accentuates the long bonnet, upright passenger compartment and graceful sweeping wings. Panel alignment is particularly pleasing, while the impressive radiator, polished brightwork and traditional exterior fittings contribute to an overall presentation that is both authentic and exceptionally attractive.

Importantly, the car has not lost the subtle character that makes a well-preserved pre-war motor car so appealing. It presents as a vehicle that has been carefully maintained and respected rather than unnecessarily modernised, retaining the atmosphere and individuality of its original construction.

Interior – Traditional Luxury and Craftsmanship

Step inside, and the quality of the original coachbuilding becomes immediately apparent. The beautifully trimmed beige leather seating creates a warm and inviting environment, complemented by magnificent walnut veneers, traditional instrumentation and carefully finished interior fittings.

Particularly charming are the rear passenger picnic tables and vanity appointments, reminders of an era when the rear compartment of a prestigious motor car was designed to provide an exceptionally comfortable and dignified travelling environment. Such details illustrate the extraordinary consideration given to passenger comfort and the expectations of Rolls-Royce clientele during the 1930s.

The interior remains in remarkably tidy condition, with the leather upholstery, carpets, timber surfaces and general fittings displaying the benefit of careful ownership. The result is a cabin that retains its historical atmosphere while remaining an exceptionally pleasant place in which to travel.

Mechanical Character and Driving Experience

Beneath the bonnet lies the renowned Rolls-Royce 20/25 six-cylinder engine, a beautifully engineered power unit designed to deliver smooth, progressive performance with minimal fuss. Rolls-Royce engineering of this period placed considerable emphasis on refinement, mechanical precision and reliability, qualities that helped establish the company’s formidable international reputation.

The 20/25 was never intended to be a sporting motor car. Its purpose was to provide dignified, comfortable and dependable transport, delivering its performance in a relaxed and effortless manner. The pleasure of driving one lies in its mechanical character, measured responses and the unmistakable sense of operating a motor car built to an entirely different philosophy.

The engine compartment of this example is particularly appealing for its honest presentation, retaining the traditional appearance expected of a carefully maintained pre-war Rolls-Royce. Rather than being excessively detailed for display purposes, it reflects the character of a motor car that has been cherished and maintained with an appreciation for its originality.

A Remarkable Piece of Automotive History

What makes a motor car of this calibre so special is not simply its age, its prestigious name or its elegant appearance. It is the remarkable continuity of craftsmanship, engineering and history that has survived through generations of ownership.

Every detail tells something of the period in which it was created, from the individually constructed coachwork and beautifully finished interior to the traditional mechanical engineering that has endured for more than nine decades. These were motor cars built with extraordinary attention to detail, at a time when skilled craftsmen were responsible for creating vehicles intended to provide many years of distinguished service.

For today’s enthusiast, the opportunity to own such a motor car carries a sense of responsibility as well as privilege. A Rolls-Royce of this vintage is not simply another addition to a collection; it is an important surviving example of British industrial and automotive heritage, worthy of continued preservation and appreciation.

An Exceptional Opportunity

Finding an attractive pre-war Rolls-Royce is one thing. Finding an example with distinguished coachwork, beautiful interior appointments, excellent presentation and the character of long-term enthusiast ownership is considerably more appealing.

This magnificent 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 offers precisely that combination. Whether destined for a private collection, prestigious motoring events, Rolls-Royce club gatherings or leisurely touring, it represents an opportunity to enjoy a motor car of genuine historical importance and enduring distinction.

For the discerning collector who values authenticity, traditional craftsmanship and the incomparable prestige of the Rolls-Royce name, this beautiful Mann Egerton-bodied 20/25 deserves serious consideration.

A motor car from an extraordinary age of British motoring, preserved for the enjoyment and appreciation of its next custodian.

The pre-war Rolls-Royce market occupies a distinguished position within the international collector car community, appealing to enthusiasts who recognise that genuine luxury is defined not merely by appearance, but by craftsmanship, exclusivity and historical significance. Unlike mass-produced classics, these remarkable automobiles represent a period when skilled coachbuilders, traditional artisans and specialist engineers combined their talents to create motor cars of exceptional individuality.

This heritage gives the Rolls-Royce 20/25 a level of prestige and collectibility that transcends passing automotive fashions. International interest remains well established, particularly throughout the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand, where dedicated Rolls-Royce enthusiast organisations and specialist collectors continue to support the preservation and appreciation of these extraordinary machines. For discerning buyers, the attraction extends beyond ownership of a prestigious marque to acquiring a tangible piece of automotive and social history, representing standards of luxury and craftsmanship rarely encountered in today’s world.

From a collectibility and investment perspective, the Rolls-Royce 20/25 benefits from its recognised pedigree, finite production and enduring international reputation. However, values within the pre-war market are increasingly selective, with knowledgeable collectors placing particular emphasis on coachbuilder identity, authenticity, provenance, mechanical condition and the quality of preservation. Desirable coachbuilt examples with attractive presentation and established ownership histories can command considerable interest, although appreciation is not uniform and market values fluctuate according to demand and individual vehicle characteristics.

For New Zealand collectors, the relatively limited availability of pre-war Rolls-Royce motor cars adds another dimension of exclusivity, while the marque’s worldwide recognition provides access to a much broader international audience. Ultimately, the enduring appeal of the 20/25 lies in its rare combination of historical importance, traditional British luxury, individual coachbuilding and international collector recognition, qualities that distinguish it from ordinary vintage automobiles and underpin its long-term desirability.

New Zealand Sales
Unless otherwise stated, vehicles sold for use in New Zealand will be supplied with a new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and 12 months New Zealand registration at the time of sale.

Transport & Shipping
New Zealand transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged on the Buyer’s behalf and at the Buyer’s cost and risk. Any freight, shipping, insurance, customs charges, duties, taxes, import costs, certification or compliance costs are the responsibility of the Buyer unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Export Sales
For vehicles purchased for export, the Buyer is responsible for determining and satisfying all import, registration, certification, compliance, tax and regulatory requirements applicable in the destination country.

Viewing
All vehicle inspections and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

Applicable Law
All sales are subject to applicable New Zealand law. Nothing in these Conditions of Sale excludes or limits any statutory rights or obligations that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.

For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime, or contact us through the form below.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.

NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993

Waimak Group Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”. Waimak Group Ltd is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Group Ltd does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Group Ltd.

The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.