The 1950 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Touring Limousine by H.J. Mulliner is more than a post-war luxury car. Ordered new by Ivar Bryce, a lifelong friend of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, this particular example carries a story that stretches beyond motoring history into the world of literature and espionage fiction.
The Post-War Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith
Introduced in 1946, the Silver Wraith became Rolls-Royce’s first post-war model. It carried over elements from the pre-war Wraith but received a strengthened chassis. This allowed for independent coil-spring suspension at the front and semi-elliptical springs at the rear. In the early 1950s, wheelbase length was extended from 127 to 133 inches, reflecting the gradual return of luxury motoring after austerity years.
Engine and Technical Development
At its heart, the Silver Wraith used the B60 inline six-cylinder engine, a unit with military roots. Originally designed during the war for light tanks and troop carriers, it evolved into a refined powerplant for Rolls-Royce. By 1950, displacement measured 4.3 litres, with later versions growing to 4.6 and eventually 4.9 litres. The “F-head” aluminium design improved cooling and performance over earlier iterations, making it both durable and capable for chauffeur-driven limousines.
The Bryce and Fleming Connection
Chassis number WGC75 was delivered new to Ivar Bryce in October 1950. Finished in Dark Blue with a Blue leather interior, it was supplied through Weybridge Autos Ltd and registered as LLR 686, a number it still carries. Bryce, a British businessman, was one of Ian Fleming’s closest friends. Their long-standing connection influenced Fleming’s creation of the CIA character Felix Leiter in the James Bond novels. Fleming is also reported to have written parts of Diamonds Are Forever during visits to Bryce’s New York residence.
The Mulliner-Bodied Touring Limousine
This Silver Wraith wears H.J. Mulliner coachwork in Touring Limousine style, complete with a sunroof. Mulliner was well known for tailoring Rolls-Royce chassis to client needs, and this build balanced formal proportions with understated elegance. While repainted dark grey later in life, the interior remains factory-correct and remarkably well preserved.
Power and Driving Character
The B60 six-cylinder engine gave the 1950 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith steady and reliable power delivery suited to long journeys and chauffeur service. Though performance figures were modest compared with sports cars of the era, refinement was the priority. Smooth power delivery, a strong chassis, and suspension designed for comfort gave the Silver Wraith its lasting reputation for dignified motoring.
A Car with Cultural and Historical Links
After its delivery, the car remained with Bryce before passing into other hands, eventually acquired by its current owner in 2009. Stored mostly indoors, it still retains its build sheet copies. For those interested in post-war Rolls-Royce craftsmanship, and for admirers of Fleming’s literary world, this Silver Wraith stands at the intersection of automotive heritage and cultural history.
Summary
The 1950 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Touring Limousine by H.J. Mulliner offers more than engineering refinement. As a car tied to Ivar Bryce, the friend who inspired a key Bond character, it bridges automotive tradition with a unique link to post-war British storytelling. Preserved with period-correct details, it remains an intriguing piece of motoring and cultural history.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
