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Rolls-Royce Phantom V gallery (1959–1968)

The fifth generation Phantom ushered in the V8 era, delivering palatial proportions and state limousine prestige.

All photos 344 I 0 1925–1931 II 8 1929–1935 III 7 1936–1939 IV 0 1950–1956 V 3 1959–1968 VI 0 1968–1990 VII (RR01) 259 2003–2017 VIII (RR11) 67 2017
Rolls-Royce Phantom V photo 101013 2048 x 1536 1 1959
Rolls-Royce Phantom V photo 101012 2048 x 1536 1 1959
Rolls-Royce Phantom V photo 101011 2048 x 1536 1 1959

Introduced in 1959, the Rolls-Royce Phantom V served as the ultimate coachbuilt ceremonial limousine for heads of state, royalty, and international captains of industry. Based on an extended and heavily reinforced chassis derived from the Silver Cloud II with an imposing 145-inch wheelbase, the Phantom V featured independent front suspension with coil springs and an exceptionally smooth semi-elliptic live rear axle. Under the hood sat Rolls-Royce's newly developed 6.2-litre all-aluminium L-series OHV V8 engine paired with twin SU carburettors and a four-speed General Motors Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. A major mid-cycle facelift in 1962 introduced distinctive quad headlamps and subtle powertrain revisions that provided improved performance. Bodies were crafted by coachbuilding specialists James Young and Mulliner Park Ward, offering bespoke partitions, lavish walnut veneers, cocktail cabinets, and comprehensive air-conditioning systems. A total of 516 units were manufactured, cementing the Phantom V as an iconic statement of mid-century British automotive opulence.