Lot 339: 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental

The Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental faced stiff competition from several quarters for the title of 'The Best Car in the World', but nothing could match it for sheer competence in every department. It was Rolls-Royce's fastidious attention to detail which elevated the car over the opposition. It was, of course, expensive. Prices for even a standard Phantom II saloon started at £2,425, while a Continental could be as expensive as one wanted it to be. It was a conspicuous display of wealth at a time when that was not politically incorrect.The fortunate buyer of any Phantom acquired a car which had servo mechanical brakes, a superb four-speed gearbox with synchromesh on the top two ratios, an engine with seven main bearings, dual ignition and a one-piece aluminium overhead valve cylinder head which was a masterpiece of casting. The rarer Continental variant, of which no more than 320 were made, had flatter springs than the saloons and limousines, with twin Hartford dampers on the front springs. It had a high-lift camshaft for more power and a higher back axle ratio for high-speed long distance touring. Most Continentals, as this one, used the shorter chassis with a wheelbase of 144 inches. Rolls-Royce has never disclosed the power output of its engines, preferring to say that they are 'adequate'. A unit capable of propelling so large a car all day long at over 90mph in near silence is, indeed, 'adequate'. Unlike the modern hatchback with a 'GT' on the back, this model earned the name 'Continental'. It was a Grand Tourer, but Continental is a more discreet way of expressing the idea. It would have taken the Prince from the Royal Enclosure at Ascot to Longchamps, or perhaps to Monte Carlo or St. Moritz, and would have turned heads anywhere. A car like this announced its owner as clearly as any butler.First delivered to Mr Parkinson of Rootes Ltd., Piccadilly, Chassis 29 TA is unquestionably an owner's driving car. This short chassis Continental sports saloon was the epitome of Rolls-Royce's ability to not only produce an elegant stately motor car, but also a sporting model for the discerning owner/driver. This most handsome close-coupled sports saloon also boasts a full length sunroof and retractable rear luggage rack and excellent driving capabilities. Finished in teal and oasis blue with complimenting blue hide upholstery.