1964 Rolls-Royce Phantom V Limousine

Introduced in 1959, Rolls-Royce's new limousine model, the long-wheelbase Phantom V, effectively replaced both the Phantom IV and the Silver Wraith. Built on a much modified and strengthened Silver Cloud II chassis, the new Phantom measured over 6 metres in length and enabled coachbuilders to combine the desirable qualities of a spacious interior with generous boot space and graceful lines. A lower final drive ratio ensured that whilst top speed was a little down on that of its stablemates, though still in excess of 100mph, the new Phantom could all but match them for acceleration.

With so few produced and with such a serious price tag, Rolls-Royce Phantoms of 1959 to 1991 were destined for some very special customers. Being a Head of State seemed a prerequisite for owning a Phantom. HM Queen Elizabeth II has a Phantom V, and her mother owned one as well.

According to copy construction and test records supplied by the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club, this delightful Phantom V was ordered new by Nottingham Corporation as appropriate transport for their Lord Mayor and his guests. Delivery of the chassis to the coachbuilder, HJ Mulliner Park Ward, was scheduled for 20th May 1964 with the limousine due to be formally handed over on the 26th August 1964. The interior specification naturally included a cocktail cabinet containing two cut glass decanters and four glasses.

We understand, from our vendors, that the car was bought from Nottingham Corporation by A.W. Lymm Funeral Directors, and after some time in the United States returned to the UK and the custodianship of Mahony and Ward during the 2000s, before being registered to our vendors on the 7th October 2014. The interior of the car had suffered as a result of a small fire that mercifully did not affect the rest of the car, so it was dispatched to Classic Restorations of Alyth, Scotland who spent 12 months returning the interior to its former glory. The passenger compartment now presents superbly with the rear seats re-trimmed in Light Biscuit leather piped in Black with Charcoal carpeting and Black leather seats in the front. Having been looked after by Rolls-Royce specialists Shadow Vehicle Services of Pudsey, Leeds since 2010, the servicing and maintenance bills on file for that period come to a shade under £10,000. The car"s last service was in 2013 and it has covered a little over 1,000 miles since then

Resplendent in gloss Black over Air Force Blue, this magnificent Phantom V is presented to auction with an MOT until September 2017 and an odometer reading of a shade under 95,000 miles. Recently serviced with its new interior this stately Rolls-Royce is ready to convey its occupants in regal splendour for many more years to come.