'61 Rolls Royce Phantom V Seven Passenger Limousine, Park Ward body

1962 Rolls-Royce Phantom Description

In the spring of 1961, this Rolls Royce Phantom V limousine was purchased by Queen Elizabeth II to be used by Her Majesty's ambassador to Rome, Italy. The first ambassador granted the use of this automobile was Sir Ashley Clarke (1953-62), followed by a succession of fortunate British representatives.

After about three decades of use in Italy, the car was purchased by an American doctor who was preparing the car for refurbishing. Following health issues for the doctor, the car came into my hands to complete the work he started.

For 20 years I have had the pleasure of frequently driving this magnificent example of a coach built Rolls Royce motorcar. Its rich heritage is always a point of extreme interest to all who see or ride in its luxury. Rolls Royce built 519 Phantom V's over an eleven year period. It takes a long time and fine craftsmanship to hand hammer this all aluminum body. Since only a few Rolls Royce automobiles were purchased by the Royal family, this is an extremely rare find.

The choice of colors, black over claret, is based on the Queen's cars over the years. The light gray interior has the correct leather front seat, and the rear compartment with original headliner is upholstered in wool broadcloth. The wood is rich in tone with a well cared for luster and all veneers in perfect order. The car was built for Italian roads and is therefore left hand drive.

At a recent Concours d'Elegance, the car was the hit of the field with constant admiration, questions and photographs. This is the same Park Ward body used on the Queen Mum's car displayed in London as well as Queen Elizabeth's model with the raised roof line. Even the interior appointments are identical to those in the Queen's Phantom V.

Many technical details, upgrades and additional photos of the car are available upon request.

My history with older British cars is as follows: '54 Jaguar XK-120 fixed head coupe, '52 Jaguar XK-120 roadster, '59 Austin Healey 100-6, '62 Sunbeam Alpine, '64 Sunbeam Alpine, '69 Jaguar XK-E, and a '57 Bentley S1 (for 25 years). I really love older British cars.

Please contact me for more information, more photos, or just to chat. I have a passion and deep understanding of this vintage and would enjoy sharing.

Asking Price: $155,000