The Silver Spur debuted in the fall of 1980, simultaneously with another Rolls-Royce model – the Silver Spirit. It was terse to the limit, without unnecessary “bells and whistles,” however chic and advanced.
Source: Supercars.net
Following the legendary Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II limousine, two no less iconic models, Silver Spirit and Silver Spur from the “silver series” of the British luxury brand, debuted in 1980. The latter, with its sophisticated design and smooth ride, was prevalent in the US market among wealthy Americans. The automobile was produced from 1980-1998 (in I, II, III, and IV generations), and the Park Ward Limousine modification lasted until 1998.
Source: Drom
This vehicle, in fact, was as luxurious as Spirit featuring a longer wheelbase (3162 mm) which was released before 1998. The model’s first generation differed from the Spirit with its hydraulic Girling suspension system. The rest of the automobile was almost identical to the Silver Spirit in exterior design and running gear. Moreover, the numbering of generations for both cars, from the younger one to the 4th generation, covered the same periods, except for the last one, which lasted a year longer on the market than Silver Spirit IV. Despite the high price, this luxurious model outsold the Spirit with 6240 automobiles. The company introduced the car as a replacement for the Silver Shadow. The model was first shown in Paris in 1980, even though the project had been worked on since 1972. The energy crisis slowed down the development of the project and postponed the presentation. However, in the end, the automobile turned out stylish and technically advanced for its time. The new body was a little heavier and the interior- was more spacious. The first generation was produced from 1980 to 1989, and a total of 8129 sedans were produced. This expensive automobile differed from its predecessor by an improved V8 power unit, gearbox, suspension, high-pressure hydraulic system, and electrical equipment. Until 1991, the vehicle was available only with a sedan body, and elongated limousines were made by particular order. However, after the cessation of Phantom VI production, a new modification of the Touring Limousine extended by 610 mm appeared.
Source: WallpaperUp
Rolls-Royce engineers were always for developing the existing technology, but not for the fundamental changes, which became an essential part of their working principles. So, Spirit and Spur were designed on the Shadow platform with almost no changes. The Spur differed from the Spirit with a 100 mm more extensive base and refined finish. Its body turned out to be more comprehensive, lower, and aerodynamic. As for the engine, the luxury brand’s engineers have tweaked it with a higher compression ratio and improved intake and exhaust. Technically, it was perfect: riding it was like sliding on an ocean liner. The movement was practically unnoticed: the rider felt the motion only because of the changing environment. Otherwise, the car seemed to be motionless. The basic model served as a basement for many extended editions, including an armored limousine.
Moreover, Hooper’s studio made 17 cars for the company and upgraded 24 more. As for the interior, Rolls-Royce’s cars had always been distinguished by a sophisticated interior. The Spur was no exception: all fittings and finishes were of the highest quality: a walnut veneer dashboard and expensive leather seats. Everything was top-notch. In 1980, electrical equipment in vehicles was still a rarity, including the forward-backward, up-down seat tilt, although reclining in the car was manually controlled as well. Digital displays for outside temperature and elapsed travel time were signs of modern trends and the brand’s innovative approach.
Source: CarGurus
This luxury model can be found in more than one movie. The 1980 release appeared in such films as “If Tomorrow Comes” (1986), “My Best Friend’s Wedding” (1997), “Innocent Blood” (1992), “Liz & Dick” (2012), “Wonder Woman” 1984 (1920), etc.
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