1930 Rolls Royce 20:25 Park Ward / Salmons Cabriolet

First delivered in 1930 to Captain Frederick Charles Vernon-Wentworth, probably of Blackheath, Friston, Saxmundham, Suffolk, (British aristocrats always have graphic, evocative addresses) also an owner at one point of two other 20/25s, GXO94 and GBJ66. A very unusual car, having been bodied by Park Ward as a handsome D-back Limousine, the chassis card notes stipulate lower springing as a roof rack was to be fitted, but instead Park Ward commissioned Salmons & Sons to add The Tickford all weather saloon conversion, a beautifully engineered fully mechanical collapsing roof. An addition that still thrills the observer as it can be opened and closed with a crank handle in an easy, one person operation. As the window frames stay in place when the roof is lowered, there is an option for relatively draught-free open air motoring as well as plenty of room for six people, including the fold down occasional seats. Imported by Tom Warth to Duluth, Minnesota in 1962 having bought the car from Major L.H. Corke of Plant Hall, Hadleigh, Suffolk for 162 UK Pounds. The Rolls-Royce chassis plate, Park Ward body plate, Tickford plate and even presumably the plate of the first vendor, Vincents of Reading, are all present. A new cylinder head was recently imported from England and is now fitted to the car, so one of the most expensive potential issues in the ownership of a 20/25 has been resolved. Many correct period tools are included with the car. Rear compartment comes with very attractive wood and full leather in excellent condition. Two folding jump seats Running and driving very well, the car is complete and has great structure and body integrity. A full convertible that will delight all. A beautifully presented 20-25 with good quality paintwork and upholstery, appealing early instruments and lovely veneers, and a particularly pleasing, correct engine bay, which includes an aluminium cylinder head and the exhaust system is a recent stainless steel one. Equipment includes a full set of ‘Ace’ wheel discs and an impressive selection of correct tools. Other vintage features include ‘cut away’ front wings, ‘short’ radiator, lovely headlights and sidelights and of course the shorter wheelbase of the first examples of the 20/25s.