The third in a series of “younger” Rolls-Royce models was the 25/30, although its index no longer reflected either its tax rating or actual power. The model only lasted two years before the Wraith era began.
Source: Classic Digest
In 1936, the 20/25 was replaced by the 25/30 series, which was equipped with a 4.257-liter engine (the same engine was also installed in the Bentley). This compact vehicle was the logical culmination of a series of small, compact-engined cars from the British luxury brand that began in 1922 with the relatively successful Twenty model, which had a 3.127-liter engine. The 20/25 engine was refined and eventually increased to 4.257 liters. The new automobile was certainly superior compared to the vehicles of its time. Refining the engine, the company eventually increased the displacement of the six-cylinder overhead valve engine to 4.257 liters. Unfortunately, the automobile’s production only lasted two years, and it was eventually replaced by the Wraith.
Source: Classic Digest
Back in 1922, the production of the 20 hp model marked the beginning of the “Baby” Rolls era. Compact and beautiful, this series was designed for driver-owners, who were middle-class people thriving to drive a Rolls-Royce independently. In 1929, another successful model appeared – the 20/25, which had 17% more power than its predecessor and was exclusively produced in Derby, UK, until 1936. These were dark times, and the Great Depression was in full swing. Many automobile historians were sure that this vehicle helped the company to survive the turbulent period. The 25/30 appeared in 1936 as a successor to the 20/25. The project became relatively successful for the company, as it provided the opportunity to purchase a smaller and less expensive vehicle that, in terms of luxury and prestige, was not inferior to the larger models of the brand. During the turbulent 1930s, this car won the hearts of many and became the forerunner of the first Derby Bentley vehicle after the company bought the Bentley brand in 1931. Despite its compact size and affordability, the 25/30 offered comfort and decent prestige. On the technical side, the vehicle continued the tradition of its predecessors, the “silent sports cars” – the 20/25 and 3.5-liter Bentley. The dashboard was the same as that of the Bentley, but the 25/30 engine was more powerful and prominent.
Source: Revivaler
The third in a series of “younger” Rolls-Royces was the 25/30, although its index no longer reflected either its tax rating or actual power. As noted earlier, the 1936 vehicle basically received the mechanical parts of its predecessor – the chassis and running gear remained practically unchanged. However, the engine was enlarged by three-quarters of a liter to 4.257 liters. The enlarged inline six-cylinder engine was powerful enough to provide a top speed of 120 km/h. This powerful unit had top inlet and bottom exhaust valves, one coil ignition, and one Stromberg carburetor. It was located in the same block as a 4-speed manual transmission that was synchronized in higher gears. The 132-inch wheelbase chassis remained unchanged, including front and rear suspension with semi-elliptical leaf springs and mechanical servo brakes. As for the interior, the 1936 edition was known for its luxurious and elegant design. The vehicle was equipped with premium materials such as leather and wood, which were used to upholster the seats, door panels, and dashboard. The seats were spacious and comfortable, providing ample room for the occupants to relax during long drives. The door panels were adorned with polished wood accents, while the dashboard was designed with a classic and sophisticated appearance, featuring easy-to-read gauges and instrumentation. In terms of amenities, the 1936 edition was well-equipped for its time. The vehicle was fitted with climate control systems, an audio system, and power windows. The audio system was housed in a wooden cabinet and included a radio and a phonograph. Additionally, the vehicle was designed with an emphasis on quietness and smoothness, which was a hallmark of the company’s vehicles. This was achieved through the use of sound-deadening materials, such as thick carpeting and heavy drapes on the windows, that helped to reduce road noise and provide a more peaceful and comfortable cabin environment. In two years, 1,201 units of the Rolls-Royce 25/30 were produced, after which the automobile was renamed the Rolls-Royce Wraith.
Source: Classic Cars
Despite its short life, the 25/30 was famous enough to appear in many movies and TV shows. The 1936 edition was featured in Le Retour d’Arsène Lupin (1989-1990), Behemoth, the Sea Monster (1959), Badlands (1973), Foyle’s War (2002-2015), Dark August (1976), and many other movies and TV series.
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