1938 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Open Tourer - Collector Car For Sale (Click Here)

Description:

Year : 1938
Make : Rolls-Royce
Model : Phantom III
Coachbuilder : H.J. Mulliner/Hooper
Body Type : Open Tourer
Colour : Red over Black
Trim : Black Leather

History : In 1936 Rolls-Royce made their first move away from the highly successful six cylinder engine with the introduction of the Phantom III. For the first time in nearly three decades Rolls-Royce chose to power their new model with a V12 engine following several years of development. The new V12 engine was fitted with overhead valves and was capable of producing very impressive performance figures, especially when taking into account the sheer size and weight of the finished motor car. Speeds well in excess of 80mph were well within this powerful models grasp. The four speed manual gearbox was fitted with synchromesh on gears two, three and four and was very simple to operate. By 1938 two major improvements were implemented with solid adjustable tappets replacing the hydraulic units fitted in the earlier cars. Overdrive also became a standard and very welcome addition. The Phantom III was the last large Rolls-Royce produced prior to the outbreak of hostilities in 1939, with little more than 700 chassis rolling off the production line. Buyers had a vast range of coachbuilders to choose from, with a wide range of coachwork styles available. Chassis No 3DL102, which we are currently offering for sale, was delivered new to industrialist Theodore Cozzika in 1938, fitted with saloon coachwork with division by H.J. Mulliner of Chiswick London. Following Mr Cozzika’s ownership the car returned to London and was sent to the royal coachbuilders Hooper in 1950 where it was adapted into an open tourer at the request of the then owner, His Majesty the King of Greece. 3DL102 is believed to be just a three owner car as the previous owner purchased the car in 1960 from the Greek royal family and kept it in his private collection of cars for several decades. This handsome Phantom III was subject to a complete engine re-build in recent years by a highly respected marque specialist, which took place over a three year period between 1999 and 2002 resulting in a show condition engine bay with outstanding V12 on road performance. The engine is exceptionally quiet and is almost impossible to hear when in a stationary position. Its performance whilst in operation is quite exceptional, with a great deal of power at the driver’s disposal, complemented by smooth and effortless transmission through the gears. It comes fitted with a single side mounted spare wheel, twin flag masts and two occasional seats in the rear compartment. This superb motor car is in excellent cosmetic condition having been recently re-trimmed in the finest leather. The woodwork, bright work and coachwork are also in excellent order. It is complete with a large history file documenting the cars maintenance and restoration schedule. 3DL102 is an outstanding Phantom III in restored condition and ready for the next owner’s immediate use.