Rolls-Royce 15 hp

The 15 hp in brief

On December 23, 1904, Charles Rolls and Henry Royce agreed to produce cars, with Royce's company building them in Hulme, Manchester, and Rolls' firm handling sales. This pact resulted in four models: the 10 hp, 15 hp, 20 hp, and 30 hp, with the 15 hp being one of them.

The 15 hp retailed for 500 pounds sterling. In December 1904, it was showcased at the Paris Salon alongside other models, although its chassis was incomplete as the new three-cylinder engine was not yet ready. It's one of the rarest of the early Rolls-Royce models.

Why only six were made

The three-cylinder engine was popular in the early days of the automobile: it vibrated less than a two-cylinder and was simpler than a six-cylinder with a long connecting rod. However, Royce produced other engines from a standard two-cylinder block, while each cylinder of the three-cylinder engine was cast separately.

It's thought that this was the reason — as this engine didn't fit with the general production system — that only six cars were made. Rolls-Royce didn't supply the body: cars were sold as rolling chassis, and the customer chose their own body manufacturer; Barker was recommended.

Engine and technical specs

The engine is a water-cooled three-cylinder unit with a displacement of 3000 cm³ (bore 102 mm, stroke 127 mm), with overhead intake and side exhaust valves. Power output is around 15 hp at approximately 1000 rpm.

The ignition system used batteries and coils, while engine speed was regulated by a governor that could be overridden with the accelerator pedal. The gearbox is a three-speed unit, and the clutch is a cone-type made of leather. Top speed is around 63 km/h.

Brakes consist of transmission brakes on the gearbox and drum brakes on the rear axle, with the suspension featuring semi-elliptic leaf springs.

Can you buy a Rolls-Royce 15 hp

Of the six cars produced, only the second one remains — the first was registered in London as a demonstrator and later exhibited in a museum in Scotland. Therefore, acquiring such a car is practically impossible.

If you come across an offer, it's likely to be a replica or a later Rolls-Royce model. Before making any decisions, an independent appraisal and provenance documents are essential.

If you're interested in the early history of Rolls-Royce, it's worth visiting car museums and getting involved with clubs.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

A comparison of the first Rolls-Royces

15 hp is a historical rarity, and this unsold car. If you're into early Rolls-Royces, you're better off checking out specialist museums and clubs.

Frequently asked questions