• Special Edition model celebrating Rolls-Royce's 100 years
• The ultimate in motoring luxury
• Built to Swiss specification
• Requires recommissioning

An 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 in 1998 by BMW. 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. At 3.56 metres, the new car's wheelbase was only fractionally shorter than that of the superseded Phantom VI limousine that had ceased production in the 1990s; gone however, was the old pushrod V8 engine, its place being taken by an all-new 48-valve V12 of 6.7 litres capacity. Despite being normally aspirated the latter produced 460bhp, comfortably exceeding the old engine's maximum when turbo-charged, albeit at a high (by Rolls-Royce standards) 5,300 revolutions. This abundance of power was transmitted to the rear axle via a six-speed automatic gearbox, while air-sprung suspension and automatic level control ensured that ride quality remained uncompromised. A top speed of 149mph (240km/h) put the 2½-ton Phantom within sight of the supercar league, though models destined for North America were electronically limited to 130mph.
Rolls-Royce's relatively small size and resulting lack of development funding had meant that evolution rather than revolution had characterised 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 aluminium 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, a positive advantage for a 'media savvy' clientele. 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 woollen 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.
Since the Phantom's introduction there have been numerous Special Editions, one of the first being the 'Phantom Centenary Edition', introduced in 2004 to celebrate Rolls-Royce's 100 years as a motor manufacturer. Only 35 were built. Fittingly, the Centenary Phantom made its debut at the Midland Hotel in Manchester, where aristocratic entrepreneur the Hon. Charles Stewart Rolls first met engineer Frederick Henry Royce. Numerous features distinguish the Centenary from the regular Phantom, including red 'RR' emblems instead of black, recalling the company's practice for the first 25 years of its life. All 35 Centenary Phantoms were finished in Dark Curzon, a colour used only for this special model, which also featured contrasting red coachlines and wheel lines; red 'Centenary Phantom' badges; and a solid sterling silver 'Spirit of Ecstasy' bonnet mascot. Inside the Centenary cabin one finds matching Dark Curzon leather upholstery; an anodised instrument panel; 'C.S. Rolls & F.H. Royce 4, May 1904' engraved tread plates; and mahogany veneer woodwork.
This car, number '17' of the 35 produced, was built to Swiss specifications and since acquisition the Phantom has been largely kept on static display, with an odometer reading under 3,500 km as part of the vendor's extensive private collection and will require recommissioning before further use.

Please note there are no registration documents with this lot.

Please note that if this vehicle is sold to a French private buyer or an EU private individual it will be subject to Import Duty at 10% (+VAT) and 20% Import VAT on the hammer price. The Import VAT and Duty will be invoiced to you by our custom broker who will also charge a clearance fee. If you buy as a Trader or Company however, the Finances Publiques will charge you the Import VAT directly (based on our customs broker clearance) and the Import Duty will be charged by our customs broker and include a clearance fee. Import rates to other EU Country's may vary for VAT rate and an administration fee will be charged to prepare the necessary customs clearances. Please note that if you purchase as an EU Company, the VAT amount will be calculated based on your registered countries rate. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.