Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud

vs

Rolls-Royce Ghost

UK vs UK — 1955 vs 2009

Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud (1955)
Rolls-Royce Ghost (2009)
Specifications
Silver Cloud IIIGhost Black Badge
Horsepower220 hp592 hp
Torque335 lb-ft664 lb-ft
Engine Size6,230 cc6,749 cc
0-60 mph10.8 sec4.5 sec
Top Speed115 mph155 mph
¼ Mile18.0 sec12.8 sec
Weight5,489 lbs
Wheelbase3,124 mm3,295 mm
Length5,410 mm5,546 mm
Units Produced2,044
Original MSRP$382,000
Value (Excellent)$250,000$450,000
Collectibility5/106/10
Rarity5/105/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Rolls-Royce has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III with the 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge holds a clear advantage in raw power with 592 hp compared to 220 hp, a 372-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,230 cc, while the Rolls-Royce Ghost relies on a V12 Twin-Turbo with 6,749 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 10.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 2009 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge commands a significant premium over the 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.