1971 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI

The Rolls-Royce Phantom VI epitomized the pinnacle of luxurious personal transportation throughout its production period, which spanned from 1968 to 1991. This model showcased the quintessential features of high-end motoring, characterized by its limited production, traditional hand-crafted coachwork, and exorbitant pricing. Only 374 chassis were meticulously constructed by skilled Rolls-Royce artisans, with fewer than 40 units produced in the final decade of its manufacturing run, the majority of which were adorned with coachwork from Mulliner Park Ward, including two unique cabriolets designed by the Italian coachbuilder Frua of Torino. Notably, the Phantom VI's body was the last to be created by Mulliner Park Ward prior to its official integration into the Rolls-Royce brand.

The 'Phantom' lineage succeeded the Silver Ghost, with its origins tracing back to 1925 when it was first introduced to the market. It upheld the Rolls-Royce tradition of unparalleled quality and continued to propel the company into the next century. This model served as the preferred mode of transport for dignitaries, leaders, state officials, and celebrities, boasting a clientele that included Queen Elizabeth II and her mother, the Governor of Hong Kong for ceremonial occasions, the King of Norway, and John Lennon of The Beatles, who acquired a Phantom V in 1965, customizing it with features such as a radio, telephone, an interior/exterior 'hailer' sound system, a Sony television, a rear seat convertible into a double bed, and a portable refrigerator.

The Phantom V made its debut at the 1959 Earls Court Show alongside the Silver Cloud II. Essentially an elongated version of the Silver Cloud II, the new Phantom V featured an extended wheelbase of no less than 22 inches, along with wider tracks and distinct chassis side members. Measuring nearly 20 feet in length from bumper over-riders, it was the largest Rolls-Royce ever constructed. The mechanical specifications of the Phantom VI were akin to those of the Silver Cloud II, albeit with an elevated final drive ratio to accommodate the expected increase in weight. The coachwork was provided by Mulliner, Park Ward, or James Young, with Park Ward being the most favored choice.

With the introduction of the Silver Cloud III, the Phantom V benefited from several mechanical enhancements, including an upgraded engine producing approximately 220 horsepower, enhanced power steering, and the addition of twin headlamps. In March 1964, larger SU carburetors were implemented.

The Phantom VI was introduced in 1968 and was equally impressive, catering to affluent clients, royalty, and similar patrons. It featured coachwork by Mulliner Park Ward and distinguished itself from the Phantom V with more efficient Silver Shadow cylinder heads, standard air conditioning for both front and rear, and a redesigned dashboard. Notable styling changes included a lower radiator grille and a sloping bonnet.

Mechanical Specification
The Rolls-Royce Phantom VI was built on a substantial 145-inch wheelbase and was powered by a 6,230cc (380 cubic-inch) 90-degree light alloy V8 engine, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The engine specifications included a bore of 4.1 inches (104 mm), a stroke of 3.6 inches (91.5 mm), and twin SU carburetors. In keeping with Rolls-Royce tradition, period documentation referred to the engine output as 'adequate,' though it was unofficially estimated at around 220 horsepower at 4,000 RPM. In 1979, the engine displacement was increased to 6,750cc (412 cubic inches) and was coupled with a three-speed automatic transmission featuring a torque converter.

The vehicle was equipped with four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes for effective stopping power, and later production models included hydraulic power assistance. The front suspension system was independent, utilizing coil springs, anti-roll stabilizers, and wishbones, while the rear featured a semi-floating axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs.

Most examples of the Phantom VI were designed in 'limousine' body styles, with a limited number (twelve) featuring landaulet configurations. Furthermore, there was at least one convertible among the vehicles, while approximately four were hearses. The limousines were equipped with several popular features, including a glass partition that separated the front and rear passengers, a cocktail cabinet made of burled wood veneer, and leather-covered occasional seats that faced forward and could be folded. Notably, it was the first production vehicle globally to offer dual-air conditioning as standard equipment.

The Phantom VI represented the final Rolls-Royce model constructed with a separate chassis at the London Rolls-Royce coachworks located on Hythe Road, Willesden. This model served as the official state car for Queen Elizabeth II until 2002.

by Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2024