Silver Spirit II

(1990-1994)



Engine : 8 cylinder, 90 degree V configuration

Transmission : 3 speed automatic gearbox, one piece propeller shaft, hypoid bevel differential

Chassis : 5 seater, 4 door saloon, steel monocoque, separate sub frames fromt and rear

Dimensions : wheelbase 120.5 inches

Performance : Max speed 120 mph (193 km/h)


When Rolls-Royce announced their new models, the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit II and its long wheel base derivative the Rolls-Royce Silver Spur II in September 1989, this was declared to be a statement of affirmation in the marque.

It cannot be denied, however, that with the introduction of these models, speculation began as to whether these cars represented the last production series of the types and heralded a new series of models to be released to the public.

Such speculation apart, the Silver Spirit II and the Silver Spur II had more than skin-deep differences to their forebears. By taking advantage of the advances made in technology, particularly in electronics, the engineers at Crewe had reworked the Rolls-Royce self-levelling system and developed a suspension without an equal in the world.

Vertical, longitudinal and lateral accelerometers monitored acceleration, road surface conditions and braking and sterring changes. All data from external transducers and switches were received by a microprocessor control unit. This information was compared continuously with programmed threshold values for each switching control and the damper values adjusted as necessary within milliseconds.

The interior of Silver Spirit II gained modest, although useful, alterations and additions. An extensive programme of ergonomics research led to a redesigned dashboard with several controls and switches repositioned. Directly in the driver's field of vision a new warning module was installed which provided data on vital systems and fluid levels on an "only when necessary" basis.

The split level air conditioning could be tuned more precisely due to two additional outlets in the dashboard. A sound system with ten speakers and a 100 watt amplifier was considered to provide concert hall quality. Heated front seats with an electrically operated lumbar support and a leather trimmed two-spoke steering wheel underlined how carefully Rolls-Royce had considered any feature which would make the new product a true driver's car.

Rolls-Royce had produced a pair of very desirable motor cars and now saw the need to provide an anti-theft alarm as standard thus helping their customers' precious possessions changing hands in an unintended way.