The 1959-1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V was the successor to the Phantom IV. This massive limousine shared the chassis and running gear of the Series II Bentley S-Type/Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, but used an appropriately longer wheelbase. The chassis was the familiar, old-fashioned affair (beam rear axle, drum brakes, mechanical brake servo) that had been around for years, but was thoroughly developed and very reliable.
Power for the Phantom V was provided by the firm's new light-alloy V-8 engine with what the factory described as "adequate" output, though Rolls-Royce continued to refuse stating precisely what "adequate" meant. All V’s had custom-crafted bodies by "approved suppliers," mainly Mulliner and Park Ward. Rolls-Royce built the rolling chassis only.
The V was similar in general appearance to -- but much larger than -- the Silver Cloud. Almost all had seven-passenger seating, division window, and chauffeur equipment: many had air conditioning and all were equipped with a General Motors-based Hydra-Matic transmission.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom V was lofty, stately, and extremely dignified, yet capable of 100-plus mph. It was produced in greater numbers than the Phantom IV, and is still the ultimate in "arrival impact" for pop singers and ruling monarchs.
Pluses of the 1959-1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V:
- Active club support in U.S. and Britain
- Best of the best
- Enormous carrying capacity
- Smooth, silent, luxurious
- Unmistakably Rolls-Royce, with prestige to match
- Yet another Rolls Milestone car
Minuses of the 1959-1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V:
- Big and ponderous to drive, let alone park
- Body parts difficult to find at the right price
- Costs a bundle to buy and run
- Expensive
Production of the 1959-1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V:
793
Specifications of the 1959-1968
Rolls-Royce Phantom V:
Wheelbase, inches: 144.0
Length, inches: 238.0
Weight, pounds: 5,600-5,800
Price, new: NA
Engines for the 1959-1968 Rolls-Royce Phantom V:
| Type | Size | Horsepower | Years |
| ohv V-8 | 6,230 cc (380 cid) | NA* | 1959-1968 |
*Rolls-Royce customarily did not quote power or torque output
Want more information about classic cars? See:
- Classic Cars
- Muscle Cars
- Sports Cars
- Consumer Guide Auto
- Consumer Guide Auto Used Car Search
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