Rolls-Royce Phantom Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Rolls-Royce Phantom

Since its introduction in 1925, the Rolls-Royce Phantom has defined the British marque's commitment to uncompromising luxury and engineering. The Phantom's lineage is the longest-running model nameplate in automotive history, spanning eight generations. Early Phantoms were delivered as chassis, with custom bodies built by renowned coachbuilders such as Mulliner, Park Ward, Hooper, and Barker. The Phantom’s reputation grew as the preferred choice for royalty, aristocracy, and heads of state, providing a unique blend of comfort, technological progress, and status. Models such as the Phantom IV, with only 18 units produced, were exclusively delivered to the world's most powerful figures, reinforcing the Phantom’s exceptional status in automotive history.

Model History: Phantom Generations

The Phantom’s family tree starts with the 7.7-litre Phantom I, which replaced the Silver Ghost and introduced technical refinements like overhead valves and multi-valve cylinder heads. The Phantom II (1929–1935) marked further advances with its revised chassis and improved straight-six engine. The Phantom III (1936–1939) debuted Rolls-Royce’s first V12 engine, featuring independent front suspension. Post-war, the exclusive Phantom IV (1950–1956) was powered by a straight-eight and aimed at royalty. The V8-powered Phantom V (1959–1968) and VI (1968–1991) continued the tradition of state limousines. The BMW-era Phantom VII (2003–2016) introduced the aluminium spaceframe and modern electronics, while the current Phantom VIII (from 2017) refines the formula further with a 6.75-litre V12 and digital innovation.

Highlights of the Rolls-Royce Phantom

Every Phantom features generous use of luxury materials—leather, rare woods, thick carpets—and is a technological showcase of its era. Signature details include the imposing grille with the Spirit of Ecstasy, hand-crafted interiors, cocktail cabinets, privacy partitions for chauffeur models, and, in modern examples, bodyside umbrellas and a starlight headliner. Many Phantoms are identified by individual provenance, celebrity or royal ownership, and a multitude of custom features.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The rarest Phantom is the Phantom IV (1950–1956), with only 18 built and all but one sold to royalty or government. Highly bespoke editions—such as Mulliner Park Ward Landaulets, state limousines, and unique orders for celebrities and business magnates—have been produced throughout the generations, making many Phantoms one-of-a-kind by virtue of their collaboration with world-renowned coachbuilders or through the ‘Bespoke’ personalisation program available in recent models.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Phantom models provide a distinctly smooth and powerful driving experience, with ample torque and a focus on refined ride quality. Pre-war models offered around 120 PS and top speeds of up to 145 km/h in the Continental versions. The introduction of V8 and later V12 powertrains ensured effortless cruising and robust acceleration despite the considerable weight. Modern Phantoms feature sophisticated air suspension for exceptional comfort. Chassis development has always prioritised ride quality—making the Phantom as suitable for chauffeur duties as for the driving enthusiast. Notable examples include the Phantom II Continental for its increased agility and the BMW-era Phantom VII for combining heritage with cutting-edge technology.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Phantom silhouette is dominated by its large grille and rakish bonnet, crowned with the ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’. Interiors are upholstered in high-grade leathers, fine woods (such as mahogany, walnut, and oak), and dense carpets. Features often include cocktail cabinets, folding picnic tables, privacy glass, and complex climate systems. Many cars offer sunroofs, division windows, and modern iterations house innovative features like electrically operated doors, starlit headliners, and highly customisable trim. Coachbuilt examples display striking individual bodywork—Landaulets, Cabriolets, Sedancas and Shooting Brakes—as well as rare paintwork, pinstripes, and chromed accents.

Other Notable Features

Phantom models have played significant roles in history: as state limousines, ceremonial vehicles, and in popular culture, notably appearing in classic films and royal processions. Innovations include mechanical and later servo-assisted brakes, independent suspension, and (from the Phantom VII onwards) a comprehensive suite of electronic driver aids and infotainment systems. Highly detailed ownership provenance and bespoke tailoring to the original client’s wishes are a fixture of most Phantom histories.

Summary

Owning a Rolls-Royce Phantom means joining an exclusive history of automotive excellence, with each model representing a unique combination of technical innovation, bespoke craftsmanship, and historic importance. With all classic Rolls-Royce listings in our system identified as Phantoms, both supply and demand are centred on this singular expression of automotive luxury.