Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 5BX44
When the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith was discontinued in 1949, demand
remained for a limousine-worthy chassis. The Phantom V's newly
designed 144-inch long chassis wheelbase weighed 5,600 pounds
(before a body was fitted) and was adequately powered with the new
V8 engine, coupled to the General Motors patented Hydra-Matic
transmission with servo-assisted braking. The lightest Phantom V
cars exceeded three tons when bodied, however, the boosted brakes
allowed for safe and smooth braking.
Exactly 832 Phantom V cars were built and just 108 of those were
fitted with James Young Ltd. bodies, a highly favored coachbuilder
by most collectors. Despite the massive size of this chassis, James
Young managed to create a streamlined body that visually minimized
the largest post-war Rolls-Royce ever built. These coachbuilt
Phantom Vs generally merit the highest respect. James Young was
first a carriage builder, but after the War, new bodies were
developed including the first parallel-opening door which was
fitted to a few Rolls-Royce and Bentley bodies. James Young's
design cues included their signature sculpted door handles and
fitted body spears that followed the car's lines dovetailing from
the front fender to the rear quarters. The coachbuilder was
acquired by the reputable Rolls-Royce and Bentley London dealer,
Jack Barclay, Ltd., but continued as before, to produce their
distinctive car bodies for another thirty years, until the bespoke
car coachbuilding era concluded.
Delivered new to venerable London Rolls-Royce agents Jack Barclay,
this Sedanca was so visually stunning, the agent used it as a
demonstrator model, until it was sold to first private owner, Jack
Taubman. Presented in a distinctive two-tone livery, black, crested
in rich burgundy, enhanced alongside with elaborate rare canework,
a glance into the interior does not disappoint. Unique and tasteful
bespoke interior fittings, rare period-correct and charming roller
shades serve as sun visors for both front and rear passengers. The
spacious rear passenger compartment has been refreshed in an
elegant and understated parchment off-white leather with dark red
welting. Other delights include distinctive twin picnic trays and a
magnificent liquor cabinet "companion" complete with crystal
decanters and drinks tumblers, all fitted into the division window
cabinetry. A rare and desirable Smiths Eight Day, seven-jeweled
lever clock is conveniently placed in the center of the division
window. An opera seat unfolds in the enormous footwell, offering
additional passengers occasional seating.
All Phantom V models were built to order, therefore no two are
exactly alike but they all share the same fine craftsmanship,
attention to detail, and luxurious appointments providing the
ultimate in passenger amenities. Focused on passenger requests for
the ultimate in comfort and convenience, the Phantom V is known to
be one of the most elegant motor cars ever designed, and James
Young Design No. PV22SD does not disappoint.
