The Rolls-Royce Phantom Phantom VII was a full-size luxury sedan produced by British automobile manufacturer Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited from 2003 to 2017. It marked the seventh generation of the Phantom nameplate and was designed by chief designer Ian Kettlewell, alongside Adrian van Hooydonk.
Design and Features:
The Phantom VII featured a classic Rolls-Royce design language with a long hood, short front overhang, and a pronounced crease running along the length of the car. The body was constructed from aluminum to reduce weight and increase structural rigidity. The interior was designed by Richard Langworth and featured premium leather upholstery, polished wood trim, and an opulent ambiance.
Engine and Performance:
The Phantom VII was powered by a 6.75-liter V12 engine producing 453 horsepower (339 kW) and 531 lb-ft (720 Nm) of torque. The engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode. The Phantom's massive V12 engine propelled the car from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in just 5.7 seconds, while its top speed was electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h).
Safety and Technology:
The Phantom VII featured a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and night vision. The car also boasted an extensive suite of infotainment technologies, including a navigation system with a 10.2-inch high-definition screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
Dimensions and Capacity:
The Phantom VII measured 16.5 feet (5 meters) in length, with a wheelbase of 14.3 feet (4.35 meters). The car had a seating capacity for five passengers and offered ample space for luggage or cargo.
Trim Levels and Pricing:
Throughout its production run, the Phantom VII was offered in various trim levels, including the base model, the Extended Wheelbase version, and the ultra-luxurious Extended Wheelbase with a rear seat entertainment system. The base price of the Phantom VII started at around $325,000 (2003) and climbed to over $500,000 for the most advanced trims.
Special Editions:
Over its 14-year production run, Rolls-Royce created several special edition models based on the Phantom VII, including the Phantom Drophead Coupe, the Phantom Coupé, and the bespoke Ghost-based Phantom Centenary. These exclusive variants showcased the brand's dedication to craftsmanship and bespoke service.
Discontinuation:
The Rolls-Royce Phantom VII ceased production in January 2017, with its final example being delivered to a customer on February 17, 2017. The seventh generation of the Phantom nameplate was replaced by the eighth-generation Phantom VIII model, which debuted at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.
Legacy:
During its production run, over 5,000 units of the Phantom VII were sold worldwide, making it one of the best-selling luxury sedans in history. The Phantom VII left an indelible mark on the automotive industry, solidifying Rolls-Royce's position as a manufacturer of ultra-luxury vehicles and redefining the boundaries of comfort, style, and performance.
