In response to escalating competition from faster competitors and the impending obsolescence of its aging six-cylinder engine, Rolls-Royce made a strategic shift towards V8 power as the 1960s approached. Given the V8’s popularity in Rolls-Royce’s crucial export market, the United States, the Crewe-based company naturally looked to American designs, particularly those from Chrysler and Cadillac, for inspiration.
Launched in the autumn of 1959, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II and Bentley S2 maintained an external appearance identical to their ‘Cloud and S-Type predecessors. However, the duo’s performance received a significant boost with the introduction of the new 6,230cc aluminum-alloy V8 engine.
Despite being wider and shorter than the replaced ‘six,’ the new power unit seamlessly integrated into the engine bay, as the Silver Cloud was initially designed to accommodate a V8. Externally, the fresh models retained an almost identical appearance, while underneath, Rolls-Royce’s proprietary four-speed automatic transmission became the exclusive option, and power steering was now a standard feature. Enjoying immense success both domestically and internationally, the Silver Cloud II and Bentley S2 continued in production until the autumn of 1962.
Source: Bonhams Cars
