Lot 511: 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental Sport Saloon

The Rolls-Royce Phantom II series was produced between 1929 and 1936. The chassis was the last designed under the supervision of Rolls-Royce co-founder Henry Royce. Powered by a massive 7.7-liter (467cid) six-cylinder engine, the Phantom II was technically somewhat more conventional than earlier Rolls-Royces, yet it retained, and in some ways surpassed, the qualities that had made the preceding Silver Ghost and Phantom I models arguably the finest cars in the world.

One significant change incorporated into the Phantom II chassis was the adaptation of underslung rear springs, which permitted coachbuilders to lower the vehicle height considerably compared to earlier models. Wheelbase was 150 inches on the standard chassis, 144 inches with the special shortened version.

This 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sports Saloon is one of the relatively rare Continental versions. Of the 1,680 Phantom IIs produced, less than 300 were built to Continental specifications.

The car carries a body manufactured by Thrupp & Maberly, one of the UK�s leading coachbuilders of the period and a favorite amongst Rolls-Royce and Bentley purchasers.

This particularly stylish, close-coupled sports saloon style features a sliding sunroof over the front seating. The front seats are separate and staggered. A large trunk was designed into the body. A single, side-mounted spare tire is found on the right side. The lighting consists of a set of desirable Lucas P100 headlamps, with matching driving lamp and fender lamps.

The Phantom II was sold new by the Ollington Brothers Ltd. dealership in the UK to a gentleman named George N. Kennedy. On its original build sheet, the specifications clearly state that the vehicle is built on the �short, Continental chassis and is fitted with the F-type gearbox.� The F- type gearbox incorporated higher final drive ratios that were desirable for long distance touring, while standard specification ratios were designed for in-town driving.

Today, the Phantom PII shows the patina of a low-mileage automobile that has been well cared for during most of its life. It is believed to have been repainted once, in the original gray. The paint remains in very nice and presentable condition, with minimal cracking and chipping. The upholstery appears to be the original leather and is also in excellent condition and quite serviceable. The interior trim shows some age-cracks in the wood veneer paneling, but, is in overall very nice condition and appears to be all original. The instrument panel is complete and original with its rare, correct white-faced gauges, instruments, and controls.

The chassis and engine, which retains its original carburetor and ignition system, also appear to be in excellent, original condition. The engine retains its
The chassis is complete and shows no signs of neglect. The car still retains its original 19� Dunlop wire wheels. Most of its original tool kit is included.

Overall, this vehicle could be maintained in its current condition, as its paint, upholstery, bright work and interior details are quite presentable and, with minimal cleaning and conservation would display quite well.

The Phantom II has always been a very desirable Rolls-Royce, as it was the last and most refined of the large six-cylinder cars upon which the Rolls-Royce legend is built. Original Continental versions are among the most highly prized examples of the marque and this is an excellent representation of that model. The beautiful proportioning of this classic sports saloon will delight many eyes, but only the next owner will experience the richness of possessing such a classic vehicle.

Without reserve