2007 Rolls-Royce Phantom

6,749cc DOHC V12
Bosch Motronic MED7 Engine-Control Systems with Direct Fuel Injection
453bhp at 5,350rpm
6-Speed Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Self-Leveling Independent Air Suspension
4-Wheel Ventilated Disc Brakes

*One owner from new
*Less than 4,000 original miles
*Loaded with Bespoke options
*The pinnacle of wheeled luxury

THE ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM

A historic model in the continuing history of the Rolls-Royce marque, the Phantom was the first all-new design to be introduced by the company following its takeover by BMW. To the relief of traditionalists, it looked nothing like a BMW, despite the underlying technology. Produced at a new factory near Goodwood in Sussex, the Phantom revived a great name from Rolls-Royce's past that had always been synonymous with unrestrained luxury. In keeping with the tradition established by previous Phantoms, the newcomer was a very large motor car, outstretching the old Silver Seraph (the last Crewe-built Rolls-Royce) by 18" while boasting a radiator shell 4" taller. Priced at around $350,000 at time of launch, it was also 40% more expensive.

Rolls-Royce's relatively small size and resulting lack of development funding had meant that evolution rather than revolution had characterized the progression of its cars; under BMW's stewardship however, the company was able to start afresh, embracing the best of modern technology. Thus, the Phantom's bodyshell was a state-of-the-art aluminum space frame structure, stiffer yet lighter than the equivalent steel body, whose rear-hinged rear doors revived a practice from bygone days. This arrangement not only provided easy access for rear-seat passengers but also enabled photographs of the occupants to be taken unobstructed by the open doors.

While the body structure represented the ultimate in automotive technology, its accoutrements remained entirely traditional in choice of materials, consisting of the finest hide trim, genuine woolen carpets and carefully selected wood veneers. Certain dashboard features recalled those of earlier models, while there was a choice of five-seater ('Lounge') or four-seater (Theatre') accommodation.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This one-owner Phantom sedan is finished in the elegant and bespoke color of Ghost Silver Metallic over a sumptuous Rose Leaf and Crème Light leather interior with veneered wood throughout. The Phantom has a host of bespoke options which can be viewed on the original window sticker, while some of the "standard" options include theatre configuration lounge seating, 21inch aluminum wheels, and slide/tilt sunroof. Having covered just 3,761 miles with its only owner, this nearly $400,000-when-new über sedan can now be had at less than a quarter of its original purchase price. While the cost of entry may have become more reasonable, the level of luxury inside certainly hasn't depreciated!