The Rolls-Royce Phantom II was considered one of the finest and most luxurious cars of the pre-war era. It was known for its advanced engineering and its attention to detail, which made it a cut above other luxury vehicles of that period.
Source: Supercars.net
By the end of the twenties, the successful and ambitious Silver Ghost and Phantom I were trendy among financial and industrial magnates, the wealthy aristocracy, and celebrities on both sides of the Atlantic. These models promoted the brand and won recognition among the rich, famous, and luxury pursuers. However, the automotive industry never tolerated conservatism, and despite outwardly a stable position, the British automaker had to think about improvements and updates to stay afloat. While designing a new model, there was an unseen struggle between the traditional approach promoted by Henry Royce and part of the employees who advocated the production of more progressive cars. Thus, the new Rolls-Royce was born into controversy.
Source: Drive-my
The Great Depression shook it all. However, the British aristocracy’s financial state was much better than the American millionaires. For this reason, the Rolls-Royce factory in Springfield, Massachusetts, was closed in 1931. Still, the company survived this period and increased its income due to its impeccable reputation and high-quality products. During this challenging period, the outstanding Phantom of the second generation appeared as a replacement for the previous Phantom I. Sure, the first generation vehicle was a great luxury vehicle. However, still, a transitional model since its 6-cylinder overhead valve engine did not fit the outdated chassis inherited from its predecessor. In 1929, after producing 2212 vehicles, the Phantom I gave way to a redesigned second-generation model. Traditionally, all RR automobiles were delivered as chassis offering various bodies from specialized body makers. The new automobile continued the bodybuilding traditions of its predecessor. Like many similar vehicles of that time, the Phantom II was also offered as a chassis for installing various bodies from specialized companies. Some of the best-known coachbuilders who produced bodies for Rolls Royce vehicles included Park Ward, Brewster, Thrupp & Maberly, Mulliner, Carlton, Henley, and Hooper. The model also received a new chassis, an improved suspension system, and a more powerful engine. From 1929 to 1935, 1680 vehicles were produced.
Source: WallpaperUp
The second generation of this premium-class vehicle received the trendy rounded, and flowing body shapes so popular in the 20s. Two wheelbase options were offered for it: 144-inch (3658 mm) and 150-inch (3810 mm). In addition, the automobile was equipped with a 7668 ccs inline 6-cylinder engine with a single overhead camshaft, pushrods, two separate blocks of three cylinders, a typical aluminum head, and 4-speed manual transmission. It produced about 120 hp due to the increased compression ratio. A driveshaft with a hypoid bevel final drive replaced the previous torque tube. All automobiles were equipped with servo-driven mechanical drum brakes and a Bijur central lubrication system. Of the 1680 Rolls-Royce Phantom IIs, produced at Derby, 281 were Continental sports modifications. They had a short base, stiffer suspension with Hartford dampers, and reduced transmission ratios. The maximum speed of the Continental modification with lightweight 2-door bodies reached 160 km/h. This vehicle played a crucial role for the brand, helping it to stay at the top of the global automotive business until the Second World War, successfully avoiding the fate of many luxury car-producing companies. Unfortunately, the second Phantom was the last model of the British luxury brand, created under Henry Royce’s supervision, who was the company’s co-founder: he passed away in 1933.
Source: Classic Driver
In 1930 Marlene Dietrich arrived in the US at the invitation of Blue Angel director Josef von Sternberg. The director was generous and gave Dietrich a green Phantom II of 1929 release. The car later appeared in their first American film, “Morocco.”
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