1966 ROLLS-ROYCE Phantom V Limousine

Background

The Phantom V served as the Rolls-Royce flagship model for nearly a decade (1959-1968), during which time fewer than 1,000 chassis were built.

The Vehicle

These cars were highly exclusive and equally conservative, using traditional ladder chassis and even four-wheel drum brakes (power assisted, naturally). This one dates from the penultimate year of production, and appears as if it may retain a high degree of factory originality.

On the Outside

At just under 20 feet bumper-to-bumper, this remains a large, imposing automobile, and despite the elegant, formal bodywork’s best efforts to soften its scale. The car appears to remain entirely complete, including its myriad elaborate pieces of painstakingly handcrafted trim.

At the front, the car wears quad headlights (replacing twin units in 1963) and retains its signature Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, behind which rests a centrally hinged hood.

On the Inside

At the front, in the driver’s compartment, an elaborate burl wood dashboard draws the eyes and hands with an enticing array of RR-branded Smiths gauges and polished metal switchgear. Note also the twin arm rests on each side, as well as a small control panel for factory air conditioning - still a fairly rare and extremely pricey option at the time this car was constructed.

In back, with occasional-use foldaway seats stowed, legroom for passengers seated on the wide, deep sofa-like bench is best measured by the acre. The left-side rear occupant has controls for the radio, and a wood drinks cabinet provides refreshments.

Underneath

Already decidedly old-fashioned when this car was built more than half a century ago, the center-hinged engine lids are a treat to use and see. Underneath either leaf rests a Rolls-Royce engineered and built OHV V8 of 6,230 cc, delivering an “adequate” amount of power to the rear wheels via a GM-sourced 4-speed automatic transmission.

Brakes and steering are both power assisted, of course, and the former consists of large drums at each corner.

History Highlights

The car is sold with fairly extensive documentation including copies of factory work orders used during its construction, maintenance records, and more. Please see the full image gallery for more.

What We Think

Phantom V’s are among the most exclusive RR automobiles ever built, and even by modern standards, their smoothness of operation, ride quality, and general levels of refinement still impress. This one’s a/c, sun-reflecting white paint, and lhd make it uniquely well-suited to use on the picturesque roads of America’s West Coast.

Estimated $40,000 - $60,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.