Car History: Rolls-Royce Wraith
Rolls-Royce is the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship in the automobile industry. Since Rolls-Royce’s initiation in 1906, it has been providing ultra-luxury vehicles to its customers. Every model series rolled off by the brand is a symbol of grandeur and represents the mastery of the makers. One such model series is the Rolls-Royce Wraith, first unveiled in the 1930s. Rolls-Royce named this series ‘Wraith’ a Scottish word for ghost because of its reduced operating sound, higher agility and sleek design.
Let’s shed some light on the Rolls-Royce Wraith’s history, its generations and the features it offers.
Rolls-Royce Wraith Generations
The history of Rolls-Royce clearly elaborates on how the brand is focused on producing top-tier luxury cars. The first model series Rolls-Royce was the Ghost which was a huge success. After successfully introducing two more model series, Rolls-Royce launched the Wraith. The purpose of launching Wraith was also the same, to provide an exclusive vehicle to the consumers.
Here are the complete details regarding Rolls-Royce Wraith and its different generations.
First Generation Rolls-Royce Wraith (1938 to 1946)
The first model of the Rolls-Royce Wraith was unveiled in 1938. Wraith was the symbol of modernisation at that time and revolutionised the concept of automobiles in the 1900s. It was sleek, stylish, and had a high-power engine, which was rare then.
The car was released in the classic two and four-door style with a seating capacity of four. At the front, a large rectangular radiator grille was present featuring the Rolls-Royce logo, the Spirit of Ecstasy and rounded headlights. The pronounced fenders had a space for the spare wheels and turn signals were also positioned on the fenders. Steel front and rear bumpers were present to secure the car in case of a collision.
The interior was designed to provide maximum comfort. The wooden dashboard was equipped with rounded dials providing all the necessary information related to the car.
Under the hood, a 4257cc engine was present that provided the Wraith with a top speed of 137 km/h. Due to its higher agility and comfort, the first generation of Wraith was used as a state car for the Presidents of Brazil, Ireland and Denmark. Despite its success, Rolls-Royce discontinued Wraith in 1946.
Second Generation Rolls-Royce Wraith (2013 to 2016)
After being discontinued for years, Rolls-Royce launched the Wraith at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The rebirthed Wraith redefined the luxury and modernization of vehicles. The car features a long sloped back cabin and roof. Body contours run from the front end to the rear end enhancing the exterior.
The front fascia was vertical with a rectangular silver radiator grille. On the top of the grille was the Spirit of Ecstasy and Rolls-Royce logo. Rear-hinged doors and two-toned body colour represents the magnificence of the series. At the rear end, triangular brake lights were present.
The cabin was decorated with fine wood trims and highly graded upholstery. The infotainment system was present at the centre console hidden by wooden panels. A minimalist instrument cluster was present behind the steering wheel with only three dials. For the first time in the history of the Rolls-Royce Wraith, an illuminated roof that depicts the skyline was offered.
Under the hood, a V12 engine was present that provided the Wraith with a top speed of 249 km/h. The engine was accompanied by an 8-speed automatic transmission system.
Second Generation Rolls-Royce Wraith Facelift (2016 to 2020)
The second generation of Wraith received a facelift in 2016. In the facelifted version. The front fascia was redesigned with crystal clear rectangular headlights and daytime running LED lights. Along with this, bumpers and wheels were also redesigned.
Other than this, no major changes were observed inside the cabin and under the hood.
Third Generation Rolls-Royce Wraith (2021 to Present)
The third generation Wraith is similar to that of its predecessors. This time, the signature vertical front fascia was replaced with a widened one. The long rectangular radiator grilles were replaced by square ones paired with narrow headlights.
The front bumper features two large air intakes that complement the overall front fascia. The body contours start from the hood and reach to the back crossing the rear-hinged doors. The rear end features a minimalist design with triangular brake lights and two exhausts.
Inside the cabin, an infotainment system and an analogue clock are present at the centre console. The Instrument cluster contains three round dials that show all the relevant information. To maintain elegance, the gear lever is replaced with a rotary dial. Moreover, ambience lighting and an illuminated roof are also present.
The car is powered by a 6.6-litre V12 twin-turbo engine that can produce a total of 624 hp. For comfortable driving, air suspensions are also offered in the latest Rolls-Royce Wraith.
This was the complete Rolls-Royce Wraith history and all the details regarding its different generations. Wraith is synonymous with luxury, comfort and craftsmanship promised by Rolls-Royce. Apart from luxury and comfort, the car is also equipped with technologically advanced features that mark its distinct position in the market. If you are also interested in availing of all of these features, browse through these used Rolls-Royce Wraiths for sale in the UAE and purchase your luxury vehicle.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on the Rolls-Royce Wraith models.