TWO incredibly rare and inter-war Rolls-Royce Phantoms are coming up for auction in the UK.
First up is a lovingly cared-for 1927 Phantom I All-Weather Cabriolet – one of only six such cars made by Murphy of Pasadena in the States and thought to be the only one left with its original body.
Auctioneers H&H Classics say it represents the pinnacle of Rolls-Royce offerings in the 1920s and 30s. It’s had a body restoration and a new clutch was just fitted in March, and it is offered for sale with an estimated price of £120,000 to £160,000.
The second machine is a 1937 Phantom III Sports Saloon – a barnfind that has emerged after 23 years’ slumber. Just 727 Phantom III models were sold worldwide and this model features elegant James Young bodywork, a retractable glass division and twin folding occasional seats.
The current owner has had the car since 1996, during which time restoration work has included replacing sections of the ash frame – making it ideal for a new owner to carry on the process.
The car features twin side-mounted spare wheels and boasts its original engine and appears to be complete with all ancillaries including Lucas P100R Lamps, fitted heater, sun visors, centre blinds and companion mirrors. It also comes with a selection of parts to be fitted.
Go retro with Caledonian Classics
Scottish firm restore classic cars from around the world
It has an estimated price of £45,000 to £55,000 and will go under the hammer at the same time as the 1927 model at the H&H Classics Sale at Duxford, Cambridgeshire, on June 19.
Meanwhile, if you've always fancied going on the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, now’s your chance – provided you’ve got about £60,000 up your sleeve. That sum could net you a 118-year-old French beauty that is itself a veteran of the classic motoring event.
The 1901 De Dion Bouton Type G has completed 14 London to Brighton runs in 20 years and is for sale with H&H Classics for £50,000 to £60,000 at the same auction.
You’ll also be able to take your pals with you on the run to Brighton as this magnificent piece of automotive history seats three or four people. And transporting it south from Scotland to London will be a doddle as it fits snugly into a single horsebox.
It is fitted with an uprated 6hp engine in place of the original 4.5hp unit and has just had an overhaul of the powerplant at a cost of £7500.
Roger Nowell, of H&H Classics, said: “The lucky new owner of this car will be able to register it immediately for the next London to Brighton Run in November, knowing that it is a hardy annual in that event and stands a very good chance of finishing at the Brighton seafront – not something you can say of all the entrants.”
