1983 Rolls-Royce Silver Spur: The Prestigious One

Engine V8 Horsepower 220 hpTorque 332 lb-ft Engine Location FrontDrive Type RWDWeight 2,359 kg | 5,200 lbsTransmission 3-speed automatic

The Silver Spur’s legacy extended far beyond its tangible attributes. It symbolized an unspoken agreement between its esteemed drivers and the world around them—a pact that demanded reverence and admiration. It carried with it a storied heritage, embodying the legacy of Rolls-Royce’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and uncompromising quality.

Source: Hemmings

After the iconic Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith II limousine, two equally legendary models, the Silver Spirit, and Silver Spur, made their debut in 1980. As part of the brand’s prestigious “silver series,” these vehicles quickly gained popularity among affluent Americans for their elegant design and luxurious ride experience. Production of the model spanned from 1980 to 1998, with various generations introduced during this period. Notably, the Park Ward Limousine variant remained in production until 1998, showcasing its lasting appeal.

The origins

Source: Barrett-Jackson

The journey of the Silver Spur paralleled that of the Silver Spirit, with each generation encompassing similar periods, except for the final iteration, which enjoyed an extra year on the market. Surpassing its counterpart, this car enjoyed impressive sales figures, with 6240 units gracing the roads, despite its commanding price tag. Rolls-Royce positioned this lavish model as a successor to the Silver Shadow, emphasizing its commitment to innovation and sophistication. The debut of the model took place in Paris in 1980, marking the culmination of years of meticulous planning and development. The project had been in the works since 1972, but the energy crisis of the era impeded progress and postponed the vehicle’s grand introduction. Nevertheless, when the moment arrived, the automobile exuded a distinctive style and technical prowess that set it apart from its contemporaries. The car’s new body boasted a slightly heavier frame, while the interior offered enhanced spaciousness, further elevating the sense of luxury and comfort. Production of the first generation commenced in 1980 and continued until 1989, yielding a total of 8129 sedans. This exclusive automobile set itself apart from its predecessor through an array of improvements, including an enhanced V8 power unit, gearbox, suspension, high-pressure hydraulic system, and electrical equipment. Initially, the automobile was solely available in a sedan body variant until 1991, with elongated limousines being custom-made upon request. However, with the cessation of Phantom VI production, a new modification emerged: the Touring Limousine, elongated by an impressive 610 mm, catering to the demands of discerning clientele seeking unparalleled luxury and exclusivity.

The 1983 model year

Source: Barrett-Jackson

The 1983 model kept its distinguished appearance, featuring a sleek and elegant exterior. On the road, the attention-grabbing Rolls-Royce grille, surrounded by distinct quad headlights, stood out. The bodywork’s long and graceful lines exuded a sense of grandeur, while the flawless paintwork highlighted the brand’s meticulous attention to detail. Luxurious touches were accentuated by the Silver Spur’s polished chrome elements and the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament.

Stepping into the lavish cabin, you’d encounter an interior that embodied sophistication. Crafted with care, premium materials adorned every surface, from the plush leather upholstery to the meticulously polished wood veneers and soft carpeting. The cabin aimed to envelop occupants in comfort and elegance, offering ample legroom and headspace for a truly indulgent experience. Modern technology seamlessly blended into the Silver Spur’s interior. High-quality audio systems provided an immersive sound backdrop, while climate control systems maintained the perfect temperature, no matter the weather outside. Convenience features like power windows, adjustable seats, and an intuitive dashboard with user-friendly controls were standard, enhancing the overall driving journey.

Beneath the hood, the 1983 iteration boasted a sturdy 6.75-liter V8 engine, delivering refined power and performance. Generating 220 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the Silver Spur glided effortlessly along roads, ensuring a smooth and composed ride. Setting itself apart from the previous model year, the 1983 edition introduced notable improvements. These encompassed enhancements to the suspension system, further elevating the vehicle’s ride quality and handling. Additionally, upgrades to the powertrain and electrical systems guaranteed optimal performance and reliability.

Did you know?

Source: H&H Classics

On average, well-maintained and original examples of the 1983 Silver Spur were priced between $25,000 and $40,000. However, exceptionally pristine or low-mileage specimens, or those with unique historical significance, can command higher prices.