1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25: Unveiling the Exquisite Design

The Rolls-Royce 20/25 was a remarkable automobile that evoked images of a past era characterized by sophistication and elegance. Its exceptional design, which combined luxury and high performance, makes it a masterpiece of engineering that was unmatched during its time.

Source: Manor Park Classics

Rolls-Royce enjoyed a prosperous period from 1906 to 1924 with the production of its renowned Silver Ghost. However, as the automotive landscape evolved, the company chose to adapt by introducing a more compact vehicle with a 3.1-liter engine to accommodate the market conditions during the Great Depression. This fresh addition, often referred to as the “baby” Rolls-Royce, was deliberately designed to be more compact and efficient in contrast to its predecessors.  It boasted all-wheel power brakes and a 4-speed gearbox. Notably, in 1929, the engine capacity was upgraded to 3.7L, equipping it with a peak power of 75 hp and enabling a top speed of 120 km/h. Interestingly, this automobile garnered a reputation for being somewhat unwieldy. Despite having relatively light controls, driving it at high speeds necessitated a certain level of expertise.

The origins

Source: H&H Classic

Back in 1922, Rolls-Royce introduced the “Baby” Royce, also recognized as the 20 hp. This vehicle aimed to appeal to individuals who enjoyed driving themselves and found resonance with the growing middle class, including professionals like doctors, lawyers, and businesspeople. Under its hood lay a 3127 ccs inline 6-cylinder engine, capable of propelling the car to a maximum speed of 62 mph. The 20/25 model succeeded its predecessor, the 20 hp, and continued to capture the interest of the same target customer base. The engineering team elevated its performance by increasing its power through a bore enlargement from 3 to 3.25 inches, resulting in a substantial 17% boost in power capacity from 3127ccs to 3675 ccs. Opinions about this pre-war British vehicle have been divided, with some hailing it as iconic and others deeming it more average in nature.

This was the brand’s second pre-war entry-level model exclusively built in Derby, UK, from 1929 to 1936. A 1931 Autocar report praised it as “a reliable automobile with an unprecedented level of superiority over usual cars,” and many professional racers chose this model for everyday driving. The vehicle was updated several times during its production period, and a total of 3,827 were produced, with over 70% still in use today. However, the turmoil in Europe on the eve of World War II led to the cessation of production for 20/25, and there have been no significant attempts to create a compact vehicle since.

The 1934 model year

Source: The Classic Motor Hub4

The 1934 edition marked the pinnacle of an era for the automaker. Emerging as a successor to the earlier “Baby” RR in 1929, this model had evolved through numerous design enhancements over time. The 1934 version presented a more refined exterior aesthetic characterized by flowing lines and a graceful presence. Powered by a Straight 6 engine boasting a 3699cc capacity, it generated 27 horsepower. Its four-speed manual transmission ensured a seamless driving experience, enabling speeds of up to 80 mph. A noteworthy enhancement over the preceding year was the integration of hydraulic brakes, significantly amplifying the vehicle’s braking capabilities. Furthermore, the suspension underwent an upgrade to semi-elliptic springs, providing a comfortable ride even on rugged terrains. Inside, the car’s interior offered a capacious environment with ample legroom and headroom. The dashboard was well-equipped with a speedometer, oil pressure gauge, and ammeter. The leather upholstery and hand-polished wood trim gave the interior a luxurious feel. One unique feature of the 1934 edition was the “sunshine roof,” a retractable canvas top that allowed passengers to enjoy the outdoors while staying protected from the sun. This feature was only available on later models and added an extra touch of luxury. Overall, the 1934 edition was a prime example of luxury car manufacturing before the war. It was a vehicle that appealed to the wealthy and elite with its refined exterior design, powerful engine, comfortable ride, and lavish interior. The inclusion of hydraulic brakes and the sunshine roof were notable upgrades from previous years, making it a highly coveted collector’s item to this day.

Did you know?

Source: The Classic Motor Hub

The 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 was a popular luxury car of its time, and many prominent individuals and celebrities owned one. One of the most famous owners was the British actor and playwright Noël Coward, who used his 20/25 as a daily driver and also featured it in his play “Design for Living.” Another notable owner was King Farouk of Egypt, who had a custom-built 20/25 with a special body designed by the French coachbuilder Henri Chapron. The car had several unique features, including a built-in bar, electric windows, and air conditioning.

Contact us if you have this or another classic car to sell.