1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Tourer

Coachwork by Peterson Engineering (See Text)

7,668cc OHV Inline 6-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
120bhp at 3500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission with Electronic Overdrive
4-Wheel Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Servo-Assisted Drum Brakes

*Full restoration by noted RR Specialist Bob Peterson Engineering
*Original build records
*Beautiful French inspired coachwork
*Matching numbers example

THE PHANTOM II

Introduced in September 1929, the much-improved Phantom II replaced the New Phantom. It was the last car produced before Sir Frederick Henry Royce, OBE, died in 1933. The lowered chassis, now available in both 144- and 150-inch wheelbases, provided an ideal platform for the coachbuilders who were inspired to design and build the impressively elegant cars that defined the 1930s "Classic" era.

With its distinctive, Parthenon-like radiator shell now placed directly above the I-beam front axle, the car's long bonnet measured nearly half the entire body length, resulting in a long, low, sleek and very fresh look. The lower stance and extended lean bonnet-line inspired the European and American designers to create fresh new looks for the marque. Exciting new looks defined this era, and replaced the previous cumbersome, boxy, formal and exclusively chauffeur-driven town cars found in earlier chassis types.

Much faster than any previous Rolls-Royce despite its three tons curb weight, modifications continued during its production years. The new Autovac fuel delivery system, a timesaving "One Shot" chassis lubrication design, and silky gearing were designed to eliminate imperfections, improve performance, and enhance comfort and drivability. This model's innovative details in its controls, carburetion, and ignition systems are especially fascinating to the true motorcar enthusiast.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

According to the original factory records, this particular Rolls-Royce Phantom II was first sold to Major S.W. Trallford of Norfolk and delivered in May, 1933. It was purchased through Mann Egerton Ltd., who was also the coachbuilder, and was originally fitted with a standard, D-Back limousine body. The rest of the early history is, sadly, not known at the time of cataloging, although there is a record that the car was exported to the US and was photographed in Culver City, California.

This Rolls was acquired by Bob Peterson of Peterson Engineering in Devon in the late 1980s. At the time, it was still fitted with the original limousine bodywork but was in poor condition. A thorough restoration was begun, including complete mechanical rebuild, but since the coachwork was in such bad shape, it was decided to replace it with a more sporting, open tourer with a French flare. In order to craft the French inspired design and mold it to the Phantom II chassis the radiator and cowl were shortened. To further accentuated the sleek lines of the new body, it was finished in blue over ivory with matching blue leather upholstery. An electric overdrive was also fitted to make the car more comfortable at touring speeds.

Acquired by its current owner in 2005, it has been in his collection of Rolls-Royce motorcars and used regularly on a number of tours. While in the US, the PII has been maintained by Phantom II expert Butch Murphy.

Today the car presents very well. Coachwork designed by Bob Peterson Engineering is renowned for its quality and craftsmanship, as it demonstrated by this example. Phantom IIs are very pleasing to drive, with huge amounts of torque, a lovely gearbox, and wonderful handle characteristics, and this car is a brilliant example of that. This custom bodied Rolls is an excellent car for the enthusiast who wants a proper machine for various car events, whether they are in the mountains of Colorado or on the French Riviera.