Inspiration

The Maharaja's Hunting Car: The Complete Story Behind This Unique 1933 Rolls-Royce

Everyone knows that Rolls-Royces are some of the most special cars in the world, but the story behind this 20/25 HP Hunting Car makes this unique vehicle even more special. Created in 1933, Rolls-Royce built this car as a one-off production for the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, the car has travelled all over the world, but the love that each owner has had for it has never faltered. Watch the video below to hear the current owner talk about the car and read on to find out all about its unique history.


Where did it come from?
In the times of the British Empire, Maharajas were known for their extravagance and exoticism. The hunting of wild animals was a large part of the culture and the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir decided he had to do it in style. Therefore, he ordered  a custom hunting car from Britain whose unique body, eye-catching colour and luxurious interiors most definitely made him stand out from the crowd.

What was made?
This 20/25 HP is the only hunting car in the world with this unique Wylder bodywork, which is considered to be due to the unusual animals he was hunting. And after a long day of hunting, the boot can be transformed into a picnic table so you can settle down for a relaxing snack.


Don’t worry though, the car is not only practical. The interior boasts genuine ivory switches and handles, and the leather’s unusual mustard yellow perfectly matches the stunning exteriors.


What happened after?
In 1948, the car was returned to Britain, where it remained for nearly 40 years, until 1982 when it found its way to Germany. There, the Rolls-Royce had two different owners, both of whom put their all into restoring it to its former glory. So impressive was the restoration, in fact, that the Swiss Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club named it the best pre-war restoration.


The amount of love this car has received over the past 80 years- starting with its unique creation and ending in its stunning restoration - is the reason that it is so special, but now it needs a new owner to fall in love. Will you be the next owner of the custom Rolls-Royce hunting car? If it's calling your name then you're in luck! As it will be auctioned off at our Classic Car auction. You can place your bids on this magnificent car starting on September 15 and ending on September 25.

Want to see more classic cars? Or have a classic of your own that you’re interested in selling? Catawiki offers weekly classic car and motorcycle auctions and you could be a seller too by signing up here.

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