ROLLS-ROYCE Silver Spirit 1980-1989 Photos, engines & full specs

Rolls-Royce introduced a new luxury range in 1980 based on a re-worked platform from the 1965 Silver Shadow, but with more power and comfort.

Back in the day, Rolls-Royce launched a new model when and if it feels like doing it. The Silver Spirit's predecessor was the best-selling model built by the British carmaker from all times. So some might consider that there was no need for a new model. Yet, the Silver Spirit hit the market in 1980 along with its longer-wheelbase sibling, the Silver Spur. It featured a new design, drivetrain, and suspension. But the high-quality materials and craftmanship remained the same.

By 1980, the glorious Silver Shadow looked already old, and the customers were satisfied with the look of the Silver Spirit. Instead of the '60s rounded shapes and shaved edges, the car was exactly the opposite. It sported rectangular headlights with corner-mounted turn signals. In the middle of the front fascia, the radiator grille stood straight and proud, protected by the Spirit of Ecstacy. The beltline was almost straight from front to back, with a slight slope behind the C-pillars.

Inside, the burr-walnut wood veneer from the dashboard and center console perfectly matched the exquisite Connolly leather upholstery. It was clearly a car built for the back-seat passengers who usually owned the car. Its long wheelbase allowed the carmaker to offer plenty of room for the front or the rear occupants. A split bench at the front, divided by a pair of folding armrests in the middle, created a comfortable area, while at the back, the carmaker installed a bench profiled for two passengers.

Under the hood, Rolls-Royce installed a 6.75-liter V-8 engine improved for more power. The actual figure for that was not published officially. The carmaker said that it had enough.