The Rolls-Royce Phantom II was a highly significant automobile that was produced by the British carmaker Rolls-Royce from 1929 to 1936. It was the successor to the highly successful Phantom I, and it represented a significant step forward in terms of engineering, performance, and refinement.
Source: Bonhams
Rolls-Royce is a name synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and style, and no car embodies these qualities more than the Rolls-Royce Phantom II. Introduced in 1929, the Phantom II was the second-generation model of the iconic Phantom line of automobiles. It set new standards for luxury, power, and refinement and quickly became the go-to choice for the world’s elite.
Source: Barrett-Jackson
The genesis of the Rolls-Royce Phantom II was a captivating tale that unfolded with a blend of engineering ingenuity, exceptional design, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. The journey commenced back in 1925 when Rolls-Royce embarked on a mission to craft a new era of luxurious automobiles that would transcend even their high standards. Guiding this ambitious endeavor was none other than Frederick Henry Royce himself, the esteemed co-founder of Rolls-Royce and a legendary figure within the automotive industry. Assembling a team of exceptionally skilled engineers and designers, including the talented Ivan Evernden, who would later become the chief engineer of the project, they set their sights on creating the illustrious automobile, aptly codenamed “New Phantom.” They faced numerous challenges along the way, including the need to develop a more powerful engine that could propel the heavy vehicle with ease. But the team persevered, and in 1929, this glorious automobile was unveiled to the world. It was a triumph of engineering and design, boasting a new 7.7-liter inline 6 engine that delivered 120 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful automobiles of its time. Overall, the model was a work of art, with each body style hand-built to the highest standards of craftsmanship. Its timeless design was the work of none other than Ivan Evernden, who incorporated elements of Art Deco and other contemporary design movements into the vehicle’s aesthetic. The novelty quickly became a favorite of the world’s elite, including heads of state, movie stars, and other luminaries. Even during the Great Depression, when many luxury automakers struggled to stay afloat, the model remained in high demand. Over the years, it continued to evolve, with new body styles and other improvements added to the vehicle’s already impressive list of features.
Source: RM Sotheby’s
1935 was the last model year for this legendary automobile, and it was a true masterpiece of automotive design and engineering. While the basic design of the second Phantom remained largely unchanged from previous years, there were a few notable differences that set the 1935 version apart from its predecessors. One of the most significant changes was the addition of hydraulic brakes, which replaced the mechanical brakes that had been used on previous models. This upgrade greatly improved the car’s stopping power and made it safer to drive at high speeds. Under the hood, the 1935 release was powered by the same 7.7-liter inline-six engine that had been used in previous years. This powerful engine delivered a smooth, effortless driving experience, with plenty of power to spare. The interior of the 1935 edition was a masterpiece of luxury and refinement, with sumptuous leather seating, exquisite wood trim, and a range of high-end features that were ahead of their time. The car’s dashboard was fitted with a comprehensive array of gauges and controls, including a clock, speedometer, and fuel gauge. On the exterior, the 1935 Phantom II was available in a range of body styles, including sedans, limousines, and convertibles. The car’s signature grille and elegant lines remained unchanged from previous years, but the addition of new colors and finishes helped to keep the design fresh and modern. Overall, the 1935 version was a fitting finale to this remarkable car’s legacy. While the basic design and features remained largely unchanged from previous years, the addition of hydraulic brakes and other upgrades helped to keep the Phantom II ahead of the curve in terms of safety and performance. And of course, the car’s luxurious interior and timeless design made it an icon of automotive history and a true masterpiece of engineering and design.
Source: Classic Promenades
There were several notable owners of the 1935 Redition, including famous writer Agatha Christie, the Maharaja of Mysore Jayachamaraja Wodeyar Bahadur, King George VI of Great Britain, American business magnate and aviator Howard Hughes, American actor Clark Gable and British writer and poet Rudyard Kipling.
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