1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II

The Rolls-Royce New Phantom, originally named the Phantom I, differed from the Silver Ghost mainly in its engine design. It was powered by an overhead-valve unit displacing 7,668 cubic centimeters (468 CID) and had a removable aluminum cylinder head. In 1929, the Phantom II was introduced, which was the final Rolls-Royce automobile design overseen by Henry Royce. It was given an improved chassis that was much lower than its predecessors, with central lubrication, semi-elliptical leaf springs, adjustable shock absorbers, and an underslung rear axle. The engine had new combustion chambers and manifolds, and the gearbox had synchronized third and top gears. Two wheelbase sizes were offered, measuring 144- and 150-inch wheelbases. The radiator shell was now placed directly above the I-beam front axle, and the long hood measured nearly half the entire body length. The low stance and long bonnet-line resulted in many European and American designers creating modern and fresh new appearances for the marque. Despite its three-ton weight, the Phantom II was much faster than any previous Rolls-Royce.

Between 1929 and 1935, approximately 1,672 (1680) examples were produced. Rolls-Royce produced the chassis and mechanical components while outside coachbuilders created the bodies to customer specifications. The list of coachbuilders includes Hooper, Henley, Mulliner, Thrupp & Maberly, Park Ward, Windovers, Barker, Brewster, and Carolton. All Phantom II chassis were built at Rolls-Royce's factory in Derby, as the factory in Springfield, Massachusetts had closed upon engine production of the US-market Phantom I in 1931.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2019