1933 Rolls-Royce Phantom II 40/50hp Sedanca de Ville

• Exported to the USA in the 1950s
• Returned to the UK in the 1980s
• Present ownership since 1989
• Engine rebuilt and car recommissioned 1990-1993
• Only 5,000 miles since the engine rebuild
• To original specification and in immaculate condition

Reputedly the last model that Henry Royce designed himself, the Phantom II debuted in 1929 featuring an entirely new chassis laid out along the lines of the smaller 20hp Rolls-Royce. Built in two wheelbase lengths - 144" and 150", the former being used for the Continental models - the low-slung frame with its radiator set well back enabled coachbuilders to body the car in the modern idiom, creating sleeker designs than hitherto. The six-cylinder, overhead-valve engine had come in for extensive revision too and now incorporated redesigned combustion chambers and a cross-flow cylinder head, the cumulative effect of these changes being greatly enhanced performance. Highly favoured by prominent coachbuilders, the Phantom II chassis provided the platform for some of the truly outstanding designs of its day. A total of 1,768 had been completed when production ceased in 1935.

Sold to coachbuilder Windovers in December 1933, long-wheelbase chassis '53RY' was delivered new in April 1934 to Ian Menzies of London W1. In the late 1950s the Phantom went to the USA, from whence it was reimported in the late 1980s. The current vendor purchased the car from a UK auction in June 1989. Correspondence on file from the DVLA confirms the reuniting of the original registration 'AXV 80' with the car. Copies of the Rolls-Royce and Windovers build sheets are on file also.

The current owner was passionately motivated to maintain the car in the best original, mechanical and bodywork condition possible, yet in useable condition. To this end the engine was rebuilt, and the car recommissioned between 1990 and 1993. Numerous photographs and supporting invoices are on file detailing the work.

Missing from the car were the two original driving lamps, replacements for which were found in 2007. They were reconditioned and fitted, thus completing the task of returning the Phantom to the exact specification it left Rolls-Royce in April 1934. In 2017 the car was involved in a minor accident and was repaired that same year; at the same time a new leather hood and overdrive unit were fitted. The Phantom has covered fewer than 5,000 miles since the engine rebuild and is only being sold – reluctantly – on account of the owner's advancing years and his recognition that the car is not being used as often as it should be.