Rolls-Royce introduced the Silver Spirit model in 1980 as the first of a new generation of cars, although it was largely an update of the earlier Silver Shadow – using the same 6.75 litre V8 engine, 3-speed automatic gearbox and hydro-pneumatic self-levelling suspension.

Mechanically, the Silver Spirit was upgraded continuously throughout its 18-year lifespan, starting with the fitment of fuel injection, followed by an automatic hydraulic ride height control system and a 4-speed automatic gearbox. Visually, the car appeared little changed throughout production, although the last models – as in this case – received 16-inch wheels and integrated bumpers front and rear.

This particular vehicle has spent almost all its life in the island of Guernsey, having been registered there in February 1996. The fastidious owner had the car serviced and maintained by Rolls Royce specialists Hillier Hill, of Olney, Bucks. In 2014, the car was acquired by the Guernsey government for use by the Lieutenant Governor (the Monarch’s representative in the island). As such, the car was chauffeur driven and only covered a limited additional mileage. It was serviced by Le Riche Auto in Jersey on a regular basis.