Rare 1937 Railton 8 Rippon Brothers Special Limousine (Class Winner)

A very rare grey 1937 Railton 8 Rippon Brothers Special Estate Limousine arriving at and leaving the 2026 San Marino Motor Classic at Lacy Park, where it on First in Class (CCCA - European Open & Closed (Full Classics Only)). Introduced in 1935, the Railton 8 utilized Hudson Eight chassis and eight-cylinder engines which were shipped from the United States and fitted with bespoke coachwork. This example, a Long Chassis Limousine, features coachwork by The Rippon Brothers, which was founded in the 16th century and was known for building a custom coach for Queen Elizabeth I. The one-off car was commissioned by Colonel Reginald Rippon, Rippon Brothers chairman and managing director, for his personal use. It features two sliding sunroofs, fitted luggage, a tool kit, and a hidden compartment for two rifles. The rear passenger area contains inlaid walnut compartments consisting of tables, flasks, drinkware, a vanity kit, and silver-plated containers for chocolates, cigars, and cigarettes. This car was displayed at the 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it won Third in Class (European Classic Closed).

If it weren't for the grille, I would have assumed this car was either a Bentley or a Rolls-Royce - There's just something uniquely British about its overall design. But since I had never heard of Railton, even the grille didn't help me identify it until I saw it up close. And this happens to be a particularly special example of an already rare car from a little-known brand. Owning a business can come with some nice perks, especially when you're in the market for a product that happens to be exactly what your business offers. In this case, the gents over at Rippon Brothers used all their experience and expertise from building and designing numerous customer cars to create this bespoke masterpiece for their boss. It may not stand out right away in a sea of other pre-war luxury cars due to its rather conservative color, but upon closer observation, it's full of interesting details that can keep enthusiasts fascinated for hours. No wonder this car received first in its class!

Would you choose this Railton over a contemporary Bentley or Rolls-Royce? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me now!