1925-39 ROLLSROYCE PHANTOM I-III

The Phantom followed the hugely successful Ghost; although the chassis was unaltered, the 7.7-litre pushrod OHV six-cylinder was new. Second-generation Phantoms were among the first to be exported to the US, while the Phantom III saw the introduction of a V12, resulting from the marque’s work on aero engines. They’re big machines but, heavy steering aside, not difficult to drive: you get easy 60mph cruising, servoassisted brakes and low gearing from the four-speed gearbox. Almost as impressive as the cars themselves is the support available for pre-war Rolls-Royce enthusiasts.

BUYING TIPS

ENGINEThe Phantom II’s six works rather harder than it does in the original. Unstressed for the most part, wear can set in quickly on cars that have been thrashed.

CHASSIS Structural integrity is crucial. It’s robust for the most part, but restoring a chassis can cost more than £100,000.

SERVICING Maintenance isn’t what you’d call straightforward; the original Phantom has 84 points to oil every 1000 miles. Service history, including piles of invoices from a specialist, are a must. ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM I-III ENGINE 7668cc/6-cyl/OHV POWER 100bhp approx. TORQUE Unknown MAXIMUM SPEED 90mph 0-60MPH Unknown FUEL CONSUMPTION 10-14mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual

WHAT TO PAY CONCOURS £300,000+ // GOOD £100,000-£175,000 // USABLE £85,000-£115,000 // PROJECT £35,000+