1951 Rolls Royce Silver Dawn  ‘Short Boot’

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Australian Delivered | Rare Early Production | Documented Provenance & Long Club History

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Autohaus Storage is pleased to present this 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, an exceptionally rare Short Boot example (one of just 174 built) and a genuine Australian-delivered motor car supplied new by Kellow Falkiner Pty Ltd, Melbourne. Sold exclusively to export markets, the Silver Dawn was aimed at the owner-driver an unusual and appealing attribute for a Rolls-Royce of the period.

 

Finished in classic gloss black over beige leather upholstery, this Dawn is a true survivor with well-documented provenance, long-term enthusiast ownership and decades of Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club participation. The “Short Boot” configuration places it among the most desirable early post-war Rolls-Royces, predating the later long-boot variant and sharing much of its construction with the contemporary Bentley Mk VI.

 

Originally delivered on 29 October 1951, chassis SDB102 and engine S51B remain matching, with the odometer currently showing 90,981 miles. Long-term mileage records of 46,200 miles by 1983, 72,262 miles by 2005 and 82,000 miles by 2015, further demonstrate the car’s authenticity and continuous use.

 

Today it presents as an honest, highly usable example that has benefited from an older restoration. Cosmetically, it presents well for its age, though an interior and exterior tidy-up would enhance its appearance, and it is priced accordingly. Mechanically it starts on the button and idles with the characteristic whisper-quiet smoothness of the 4.25-litre six, paired with a four-speed manual gearbox.

 

This example retains an exceptional ownership history, documenting nine previous custodians, including long-term owner E. E. Porte (1984–2005), from whom extensive correspondence and historical material remain. Its enthusiast pedigree is reinforced by participation in six Rolls-Royce Federal Rallies between 1966 and 1992. Accompanying the car is an original copy of the 27th RROC Federal Rally (Perth 1985) itinerary booklet and a superb period photo album capturing the Dawn crossing the Nullarbor in convoy with another Rolls-Royce - an incredible testament to its long-distance touring history.

 

The late owner acquired the vehicle from Brooklands Classic Cars in July 2015 and cherished it as the pride of his collection. During his stewardship, an expensive period-style under-dash air-conditioning system with upgraded alternator was installed which still works exceptionally well. The most recent known service was completed by Vintage Classic & Custom, Carlisle WA in 2021 and two new front tyres were fitted in 2023.

 

With its rarity, Australian-delivery provenance, matching-numbers integrity and extensive historical documentation, this 1951 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn represents a compelling opportunity for a collector seeking a characterful, well-preserved and highly usable early post-war Rolls-Royce, arguably one of the most engaging models of its era to drive and enjoy.

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Enquire now to arrange an inspection or request further details (including the PPSR report).

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Registration Note:

 

The vehicle is currently registered under the WA Concession 404 scheme, which restricts usage. To retain concessional registration, the purchaser must be a financial member of a DoT-approved motoring club; otherwise, the vehicle will need to be transferred to full registration.

 

The vehicle is offered with personalised WA plates ‘SD1951’, transferable to a Western Australian buyer.

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Built: 1951

Miles: 90,981

Asking Price: $59,888 ono

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“For fast finance pre-approvals within 60 seconds, please apply at www.lendafinance.com.au 
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Body: 4 door, 4 seat saloon

Engine: 5.3 Litre SOHC V12 (Carburetted)

Power: 241 hp (180 kW)

Torque: 353 lb-ft (479 Nm)

Transmission: 3 speed automatic (Borg Warner)

Drive Type: Rear wheel drive

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Viewing: During business hours at our Malaga, WA showroom (or by appointment)

Contact us:

Bernard Cecchele – 0417 915 602 / bernard@autohausstorage.com.au
Scott Allen – 0457 523 100 / scott@autohausstorage.com.au
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Autohaus Storage Pty Ltd
“Classic & Unique Car Vehicle Broker”
MD30611
4 Agett Road, Malaga WA 6090

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PLEASE NOTE:
Autohaus Storage Pty Ltd (MD30611) operates solely as the broker on behalf of the Seller of this vehicle and is not a Seller or trader of second-hand vehicles. Buyers will be entering into a contract directly with the vehicle's owner (the Seller). Autohaus Storage Pty Ltd presents the vehicle details in good faith, based on information provided by the Seller, and does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information or the vehicle's condition. Prospective Buyers are strongly advised to conduct their own pre-purchase inspections and/or consult with a registered vehicle repairer to verify the details and condition of the vehicle, as all sales are made on an ‘as is, where is’ basis.
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