Vehicle Description
From its inception in 1904, Rolls Royce quickly distinguished
itself as a hallmark of luxury, innovation, and engineering
excellence. Renowned for setting the standard in automotive
opulence, the marque's commitment to crafting "the best car in the
world" has yielded a legacy of iconic models revered by royalty,
celebrities, and discerning collectors globally. In the late 1920s
and early 1930s, Rolls Royce was at the forefront of a rapidly
transforming automotive industry. Announced in 1929, the Phantom II
continued the tradition of excellence set by the New Phantom and
Silver Ghost before it and served as Rolls-Royce's flagship model
for six years. Central to the Phantom II was the 7,668cc
six-cylinder engine that, while related to the Phantom I unit,
shared little more than the bore & stroke dimensions. Key
developments included a crossflow cylinder head, separate inlet
ports, improved exhaust manifolds, and higher compression, which
amounted to an increase of approximately twenty horsepower. Of
course, Rolls-Royce never boasted about power output; instead,
letting the car's unparalleled refinement do the talking. A revised
chassis and driveline complemented the new engine, delivering
improved handling, ride quality, and a lower floor line - much to
the delight of coachbuilders who could now fit lower and sleeker
bodies at the behest of their clients. Rolls-Royce produced 1,681
Phantom II chassis, an impressive figure when considering the
economic conditions of the early 1930s. While developing the
Phantom II in the South of France, Sir Henry Royce envisioned a
Rolls-Royce that could handle the unique demands of continuous
high-speed driving to which customers on the European Continent
were accustomed. With assistance from engineer Ivan Evernden, Royce
created a sporting version of the Phantom II, featuring a shortened
chassis, higher spring rates, a lowered floor, a raked steering
column, and a taller rear axle. Chassis number 26EX was the first
such car constructed and was fitted with stunning close-coupled
Saloon coachwork by Barker & Co. explicitly designed for the rigors
of high-speed motoring. The car won the Grand Prix d'Honneur at the
Concours d'Elegance of Biarritz and inspired a limited series
production of similar sporting chassis, dubbedContinental.
Curiously, Rolls-Royce did not have an exact written specification
for the Continental chassis modifications, nor were the cars
branded as such. Rolls-Royce even fitted a few long-wheelbase cars
with lower, sporting coachwork, which the factory designated
"Continental-type." Researchers have determined that RR built 281
Phantom II Continental chassis, accounting for just 17% of total
production. Chassis 60GX is a wonderful example of
theContinental-spec Phantom II, fitted with Park Ward's sublime
Touring Saloon body #3494. The chassis was delivered to Park Ward &
Co. on October 3, 1931, and was specified "Continental type
chassis-as 26EX, for use in the U.K. and or Continental Touring".
Additionally, a note was added to the build sheet stating, "Special
attention to be given to this chassis to ensure that it is a
thoroughly good representation of its type." Park Ward, though
essentially a factory-backed coachbuilder, was renowned for its
superiority and also built bodies for several other manufacturers,
including Bentley and one of the six Bugatti Royales. The exterior
of this Phantom II Continental is a masterwork of refined design.
The two-tone black and carmine paint creates a striking visual
impact, accentuating the sleek, sweeping lines and iconic grille.
The dual rear-mounted spares add to its sporting appeal, while the
144-inch wheelbase (short for an RR!) provides an exceptionally
smooth ride, characteristic of Rolls Royce's commitment to comfort
and refinement. As expected, the beautifully restored passenger
cabin is both spacious and comfortably appointed for all occupants.
Park Ward's attention to detail is unparalleled, with each element
cleverly designed and placed. Trimmed in gorgeous maroon leather
with restored burled walnut woodwork and polished metal accents,
the interior cabin ensures a serene and indulgent experience for
both driver and passengers. Under the hood, the Phantom II
Continental is powered by Rolls Royce's robust 7.7-liter inline-six
engine. A distinctive highlight of this chassis is part no. E
82168, a 5.0:1 compression ratio cylinder head, which offers a
refined upgrade from the standard 4.75:1 compression ratio cylinder
head. The powerplant delivers smooth, effortless performance, with
ample torque available at low speeds. The advanced suspension
system, featuring semi-elliptical springs and hydraulic shock
absorbers, provides a ride quality that is both refined and
responsive. The combination of power and handling makes the Phantom
II Continental a joy to drive, whether navigating city streets or
cruising along country roads. 60GX boasts a fascinating ownership
history, beginning with its first owner, J. Sutcliffe-Pyman Esq,
who placed the order for the car on December 8, 1930. A member of
the esteemed Pyman Shipping family, Pyman was an avid collector who
owned several Rolls Royce models throughout his life. Following
Pyman, the car was acquired by Sir Rupert Edward Cecil Lee
Guinness, a prominent figure known for his involvement in the
brewing industry (yes that Guinness!), and his tenure as the Lord
Lieutenant of Essex. Sir Rupert's son, Major Sir Arthur Onslow
Edward Guinness, was the subsequent caretaker, continuing the
legacy of distinguished ownership. The car then passed through the
hands of several British owners before making its way to America in
1967 under the ownership of Harry J Holden. A few more American
owners looked after 60GX through the '60-70's. In the 1980s,
respected Phantom II restorer and expert, E. F. Butch Murphy, was
contracted to restore 60GX. Despite the nearly forty-year-old
restoration, the car has been fastidiously maintained since and
still presents extremely well today. 60GX has been exhibited at
Rolls-Royce Owners Club National Rolls-Royce judging meets, earning
numerous accolades. In 1988, it won First in Class in the Phantom
II class. The following year, it was awarded the Rolls-Royce of
England Award which celebrates pre-War Best in Show. In 1990, 60GX
received the Royce Memorial Award, Best of the Best in Show, a
prestigious award for previous "Best of Show" winners at the
National Judging meet. Arguably the crown jewel of 60GX's
achievements is its class placement at the 1994 Pebble Beach
Concours d'Elegance. Placing second in Class H-2, High Horsepower
Rolls-Royce, this truly speaks to the history and quality of the
restoration this car boasts. In 1998, the car again won the
Rolls-Royce of England Award. In addition to these achievements,
60GX has secured both Primary and Senior awards in CCCA judging.
The legacy of 60GX is marked by its storied past and the exquisite
craftsmanship of Park Ward. This remarkable vehicle remains an
iconic symbol of automotive luxury and elegance, continuing to
captivate the hearts of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. This
Phantom II Continental is a testament to Rolls Royce's unwavering
commitment to excellence and its storied history as a maker of the
world's finest automobiles. Owning such a vehicle is not just about
possessing a piece of history; it's about experiencing the pinnacle
of luxury and performance that has defined Rolls-Royce for over a
century. Offers Welcome and Trades Considered. For additional
details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7728-1931-rolls-royce-phantom-ii-continental-saloon/
