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Rolls-Royce 20 hp: 1922–1929 smaller and more accessible Rolls-Royce
The Rolls-Royce 20 hp was a British luxury car produced from 1922 to 1929, designed as a smaller and more accessible alternative to the Silver Ghost. Today, it is an extremely rare collectible car. We look at the history, technology, and what you need to know when searching for such a car.
20 hp in brief
The Rolls-Royce 20 hp was the first model from the brand intended for the owner to drive themselves. Previously, luxurious Rolls-Royces were mostly driven by hired chauffeurs.
The car was produced with a six-cylinder engine and bodies commissioned from separate coachbuilders. Therefore, surviving examples vary greatly—there is a wide range of body types and styles.
Why this model matters
The model reached a broader range of buyers than the more expensive Rolls-Royces, so it was produced for about seven years and several thousand units were made. Because of this, it is considered one of the most notable Rolls-Royces of the interwar period.
It was succeeded by the 20/25 model, which helped the company reach an even broader range of buyers.
Engine and technology
The engine is a 3.1-litre inline six-cylinder, with a manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive. The car drives smoothly but is slow by today's standards.
Later models were fitted with brakes on all wheels, which significantly improved safety. Before buying, check the specific version of the car.
What to check when looking for a 20 hp
The most important thing is provenance and documentation. Since cars are over a hundred years old, it's crucial to check if the body, engine, and chassis are original and match.
Inspect the frame condition, engine block (cracks), brakes, and electrical system. The wooden body structure and trim may be damaged.
When buying, it's worth enlisting the help of British club experts or specialist workshops. The value of such a car in a collection greatly depends on the body, history, and condition.
Trim levels
The factory only provided the chassis for this model—the body was chosen by the owner.
Rolls-Royce 20 hp
1922–1929A chassis for which the body was ordered from coachbuilders.
- 3.1-litre 6-cylinder engine
- Various body styles
- Later — brakes on all wheels
20 hp compared to other early Rolls-Royces
| 20 hp | Silver Ghost | 20/25 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For the collector | For the luxury enthusiast | For the collector seeking something more practical |
| Engine | 3.1 L, 6 cyl. | Larger, 6 cyl. | Around 3.7 L, 6 cyl. |
| Purpose | Owner-driven | Often driven by the owner | Owner-driven |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
20 hp — one of the most accessible early Rolls-Royces for collectors. Before buying, definitely consult a specialist and check the provenance.
Pros
- Very rare and historically significant
- High-quality Rolls-Royce construction
- Various body styles
- Long-term collectible value
Cons
- Nearly zero mileage
- Repairs and parts are very expensive
- Unsuitable for daily use
Frequently asked questions
Is 20 hp suitable for daily use?
No. This is a car from the last century that requires special care. It's designed for shows and collector meetups.
Why does the 20 hp have such a different appearance?
The factory only supplied the chassis, and the body was ordered from coachbuilders according to the buyer's preferences, so each car can be unique.
How many 20 hp models were produced?
Around three thousand were made, but far fewer survive. Exact information can be found through Rolls-Royce clubs.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
