1961 Rolls-Royce Phantom V Limousine

Rolls-Royce's new 6230cc all-alloy V8 engine was introduced in the autumn of 1959. It was used to power the Silver Cloud II and Bentley S2 sedans as well as the Rolls-Royce Phantom V. The Phantom V sat on a modified and strengthened 'Cloud II' chassis and employing the same 145-inch wheelbase as the Phantom IV. Measuring nearly 20 feet in length, the platform was a suitable candidate for coachbuilders to create elegant and spacious designs with proper storage space for luggage. A lower final drive ratio ensured that top speed remained in excess of 100mph.

This Rolls-Royce Phantom V wears coachwork by H.J. Mulliner, cataloged as a Special Semi-Razor Edge Touring Limousine. It is one of only eight cars completed to this design. The upper body was originally finished in Shell Grey over black with beige cloth upholstery piped in leather. It has an electrically-operated division, power windows, radio with controls mounted in the rear of the division and special cabinet work in the rear compartment, including a cocktail cabinet with space for two decanters and four glasses.

This Mulliner-built Limousine was delivered through J.S. Inskip Inc. of New York on May 11th of 1961 to Daniel O'Conor of Palm Beach, Florida. The car remained in Florida until the mid-1970s. In 1975 it was purchased by Jon Frazier of Detroit before passing to a long-term custodian in the Northwest. The previous owner treated the car to an extensive restoration that was completed in 1999. The color scheme was changed to match the dark grey on maroon and light grey used on the Mayor of Dublin's own Phantom V, while the interior was extensively refurbished with new grey leather upholstery, new headliner, burr walnut woodwork and chrome.

The current owners purchased the car several years ago. Since that time, they have spent considerable resources to maintain its elegance and beauty. Currently it has just over 29,000 miles recorded. It has the original clock and a modern CD/radio.

In 2012 the car was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge Sale in Carmel, CA presented by Bonhams. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $137,000, including buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012