The most attractive of the Phantom II series, the Continental was the last Rolls-Royce developed under the personal direction of Henry Royce until he died in 1933. This outstanding classic was intended for long continental trips and was produced in very small quantities.
Source: Supercars.net
The Phantom II Continental was produced in a very short period, with 281 vehicles released. It was an exclusive and very expensive automobile with all the attributes of luxury life. The rich and famous preferred to buy this prestigious model, built for long trips. Notable owners included Prince Ali Khan, Princess Alexis Midwani, racing drivers Sir Malcolm Campbell and Wolfe Barnato, the Prince of Nepal, the Earl of Warwick, Lionel de Rothschild, the Earl of Roseberry, the Maharaja of Bahawalpur, the Maharaja of Jodhpur, N. S. Gulbenkian, and others. The automobile was a recognized trendsetter, and in 1930 it was even awarded the title of Grand Prix d’Honneur as the most elegant car.
Source: Vantage Motorworks
The moderately conservative Phantom II was introduced in September 1929. It was produced for a short time, from 1929 to 1935, becoming a big step forward compared to the previous first series. While the Phantom I was based on the 40/50 hp Silver Ghost predecessor, the second generation was built on a completely new chassis. It was based on two wheelbases, including the short 144-inch one called the Continental, which was intended for sporty driving. This modification was insanely popular among drivers who preferred to drive Rolls themselves, instead of chauffeured limousines. Like all cars of the preeminent brand, their bodies were built separately from the chassis by the most eminent coachbuilders like Barker and Co., and Mulliner Park Ward, but the three-position Drophead Coupé known as the Sedanca was especially highly regarded. In addition, the Continental modification was designed by James Young and produced by the brand in 1931 sharing many similarities with the final version of its predecessor, but with more rounded styling. The result was a better-balanced proportion and improved handling, which led to the styling being used on future models until 1940. Compared to the standard model, the Continental modification had a higher level of driving performance. Of the 281 cars produced, 156 were right-hand drive.
Source: WallpaperUp
The 1931 Phantom II Continental was designed to provide the utmost comfort for long drives and sophisticated events. Considered the most beautiful Rolls-Royce ever made, its flowing and curvaceous body created an unparalleled elegance during its time. Despite sharing its chassis with other Phantom IIs, the Continental boasted a new, sleeker body style that was both aerodynamic and less cluttered than previous models in the series. The Continental model had stiffer five-leaf springs, shorter 12/41 (3.416) rear axles, and remote-controlled Hartford shocks equipped on its chassis. The engine had high compression, which allowed this model to reach top speeds of 160 km/h (100 mph). Attention was given to intricate details such as the tubular steel “boat-tail” rear that gave this car a modern look and lighter weight by 133 pounds. The Continental represented the epitome of luxury and elegance, and it was a perfect example of its era. The beautiful art deco interior had leather seats and stunning woodwork that would impress any sophisticated buyer. The functional and aesthetically pleasing design of the hallmark Rolls-Royce radiator grille, sweeping lines on the hood and fenders completed the overall look of the automobile.
Source: Bonhams
The South African Phantom II Continental was built in 1931 and was fully restored in 2003. This vehicle was one of the most expensive Rolls-Royces ever seen at auction, where it scored $8,650,000.
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