Rolls-Royce History: The Phantom
When the first Rolls-Royce Phantom rolled out of the new Goodwood Rolls-Royce factory in 2003 it continued the legendary Phantom lineage which started in 1925 with the original Phantom.
Rolls-Royce Phantom I, 1925 to 1931
The replacement for the Silver Ghost the Phanton introduced a new pushrod driven overhead valve, straight 6 engine. The 7.7 litre engine was extremely powerful for it's time and could propel the heavy car successfully.
3512 Phantom I's were built, with 2269 made in the UK and 1243 cars from the USA factory in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Rolls-Royce Phantom II, 1929 to 1936
The same engine as the original Phantom, but with a 4 speed manual transmission, semi-elliptical springs suspended the front and servo-assisted brakes on all four wheels to the original Phantom design forward.
1402 Phantom II's and 278 lighter, Phantom II Continentals were produced, including 125 left hand vehicles.
Rolls-Royce Phantom III, 1936 to 1939
The final, large pre-war Rolls-Royce introduced an all-aluminium V12 engine and independent coil spring suspension on the front.
727 Phantom III's were manufactured.
Rolls-Royce Phantom IV, 1950 to 1956
The most exclusive Rolls-Royce ever produced, built only for royalty and heads of state, only 18 were produced. Princess Elizabeth took delivery of the first of the Phantom IVs.
Rolls-Royce Phantom V, 1959 to 1968
The Phantom V was again another exclusive model of the Rolls-Royce line, only 516 were made. Fitted with a 6.2 Litre V8 and 4 speed automatic gearbox. John Lennon gave his white Phantom V a psychedelic paint job which helped it become the most valuable piece of rock memorabilia.
Rolls-Royce Phantom VI, 1968 to 1991
Another exclusive Rolls-Royce, the Phantom VI was made by Mulliner Park Ward. Featuring rear hinged rear doors this was the last Rolls-Royce produced with a separate chassis. Only 374 examples were made.
Rolls-Royce Phantom VII, 2003 to present
Not officially a Phantom VII, but this first generation of Rolls-Royce with BMW ownership is often known by this moniker. With an all aluminium chassis and rear hinged doors like the Phantom VI it is instantly recognisable as a Rolls-Royce. The engine and body are made in Germany, but the final assembly is undertaken at Rolls-Royce's new Goodwood facility. BMW have set a lifetime limit of 10000 Phantoms, and in March 2007 the 3000th Phantom rolled out of Goodwood.