The first generation of the Rolls-Royce Wraith dates back to 1938, and was manufactured in the company’s plant in Derby (in the central regions of the United Kingdom) until the year 1939. The first models had a 4.257 cc six-cylinder in line engine with a four-speed transmission. Some of these cars were able to reach speeds of 137 km/h (85 mph), and one held the acceleration record for the time: from 0 to 80 km/h (50 mph) in 16.4 seconds.

The performance of the older and the newer models is unparalleled. Additionally, both share an exquisite taste for luxury, refinement and quality, “features that are still as important for Rolls-Royce´s customers today as they were for clients of the past”, said Rolls Royce CEO Torsten Muller-Otvos, during the unveiling of the Wraith.

The sumptuous interior has four seats lined with soft leather of the highest quality, comparable to those used in the Rolls-Royce Phantom – and stylish wood panels called Canadel Panelling, in honor of a famous French cove where Sir Henry Royce (one of the founders of the brand) used to spend his winters in the company of his team of esteemed engineers and designers.

The passenger compartment takes the appearance of a midsummer night through a feature used in some of the band’s newer models: the Starlight Headliner, a decorative element that uses 1,340 fiber optic lamps, hand-woven into the roof’s lining, to give the impression of a starry night sky.

Rolls Royce did not overlook any detail in the production of the Wraith and, of course, paid special attention to technology. This model debuts the Satellite Aided Transmission system, which uses GPS data to anticipate the driver’s next move, taking into account his location and driving style. This feature automatically selects the most appropriate mode to go forward, whether it is turning a curve, merging onto a freeway or entering an intersection. This way, the engine is always fully prepared to perform at its best. ■