Can Anyone Drive a Rolls Royce in England?

The allure of owning a Rolls Royce is often associated with wealth and luxury. However, as we will discover, it is not entirely out of reach for everyone who can meet certain requirements. This article delves into the realities of owning and driving a Rolls Royce in England, debunking common misconceptions and exploring the true story of one man's unique journey with his luxury vehicle.

The Requirements for Ownership and Driving

Anyone can drive a Rolls Royce in England, provided they meet the basic prerequisites. Firstly, they must hold a valid driving licence, a requirement that applies to all vehicles on public roads in the UK. Additionally, an insurance policy that adequately covers a Rolls Royce is critical, although it is notably more expensive compared to standard insurance plans.

A Unique Case: Ben and His Rolls Royce

During a documentary, viewers were introduced to a man named Ben, a scrap metal merchant whose story offers an illuminating perspective on Rolls Royce ownership. Ben's journey began when a TV program on extreme wealth caught his attention. They featured him driving a Rolls Royce, which was adorned with private plates—plates that bore a strong resemblance to his scrap business's initials.

How did Ben Afford to Drive a Rolls Royce?

One of the first questions posed to Ben was about his ability to afford such an expensive and prestigious car. To their astonishment, he revealed that the vehicle he owned cost approximately ￡7,000, which at that time was practically equivalent to the price of a new model. This revelation astounded the TV crew as the car was a used, 35-year-old model with a notoriously poor fuel efficiency of 19 MPG.

Ben explained that the car was in excellent condition, with a rust-free body and had stopped depreciating in value. He maintained that if he kept the car well-maintained, it would start appreciating in value, unlike most luxury vehicles which continue to lose value over time. Furthermore, the parts of his Rolls Royce were compatible with Renault parts, making it relatively inexpensive to keep in good condition.

The Cost of Private License Plates

Another interesting aspect of Ben's story was the cost of the private license plates. The interviewer speculated that these plates could run to several thousands of pounds and asked if Ben could claim any tax relief on the plates. To the surprise of the interviewer, Ben explained that he owned the original license plate since the car's acquisition, and had only recently changed the business name from "Ben's Yard" to "Dave's Junk Yard" to match the license plate number.

Ben's explanation was both humorous and revealing. The TV journalist found this claim hard to believe and pressed on, but Ben clarified that he had indeed checked the company name change with Companies House, which verified his story.

His Rolls Royce was more than just a car; it was a testament to careful planning and resourcefulness. Ben's car was a Corniche, painted Champaign pale gold, a color that evoked timeless elegance. The final shot captured him driving off in his convertible, smoking a cigar, a scene that no one could forget.

Conclusion

This story highlights that while owning and driving a Rolls Royce may seem like the purview of the ultra-wealthy, it is not entirely impossible for others who can meet specific criteria and think outside the box. Ben's journey offers a reminder that luxury and affordability are not mutually exclusive, and with the right approach, given the laws and economic realities, the dream of owning a Rolls Royce is attainable.

Keywords: Rolls Royce, Luxury Cars, Affordability in Ownership