The Rolls-Royce Phantom III is a luxury car that was produced from 1936 to 1939. It was the final iteration of the Phantom line before World War II and marked the end of an era for Rolls-Royce's pre-war production.
Design and Features
The Phantom III retained the classic Phantom design language, with a long hood, short rear deck, and a stately grille. However, it introduced several new features, including:
- A 7,350 cc (449 cu in) inline-six cylinder engine that produced 150 horsepower (110 kW)
- A four-speed manual transmission
- A live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs
- Hydraulic brakes on all four wheels
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Phantom III was renowned for its opulence and comfort. Features included:
- Luxurious leather upholstery, including a custom-fit interior that could be tailored to the owner's preferences
- A large, wraparound rear seat with plenty of legroom
- Central heating and ventilation as standard equipment
- A high-quality wooden dashboard and trim throughout
Performance
The Phantom III was known for its smooth and quiet ride, thanks in part to its massive engine. It had a top speed of around 70-80 mph (113-129 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in approximately 25 seconds.
Production and Variants
Only 1,182 Phantom III units were produced during the three-year production run. This included:
- A standard wheelbase model with a length of around 20 feet (6.1 meters)
- A long wheelbase model, which added 12 inches (30 cm) to the overall length
- A few special-bodied variants, including a limousine and an armored car
Price and Market
The Phantom III was priced at around £2,000-£3,000 (approximately $10,000-$15,000 USD at the time), making it one of the most expensive production cars available. It was marketed towards wealthy individuals who valued exclusivity, luxury, and high-performance capabilities.
Conclusion
The Rolls-Royce Phantom III is a rare and highly prized classic car that represents the pinnacle of pre-war luxury motoring. Its powerful engine, opulent interior, and exceptional comfort make it a true masterpiece of automotive engineering.
