The Rolls-Royce Phantom II was the third and last of Rolls-Royce's 40/50 hp models, replacing the New Phantom in 1929. It used an improved version of the Phantom I engine in an all-new chassis. The Phantom II used a refinement of the Phantom I's 7.7 L pushrod-OHV straight-6 engine with a new crossflow cylinder head. Unlike on previous 40/50 hp models, the engine was bolted directly to the 4-speed manual transmission. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels using an open driveshaft, a hypoid bevel final drive, and Hotchkiss drive, replacing the torque tube from a remotely mounted gearbox used on earlier 40/50 hp models.
The chassis of the Phantom II was completely new. The front axle was mounted on semi-elliptical leaf springs as on earlier 40/50 hp models, but the rear axle was now also mounted on semi-elliptical springs instead of cantilever springs. This, along with the drivetrain changes, allowed the frame to be lower than before, improving the handling. The 4-wheel servo-assisted brakes from the Phantom I were continued, and the Bijur centralized lubrication system from the Springfield-built Phantom I was included on all Phantom II chassis.The Continental was a one-off short wheelbase Phantom designed by Ivan Evernden. 281 Continental Phantom II’s were produced, including 125 left-hand drive versions.
Only the chassis and mechanical parts were made by Rolls-Royce. The body was made and fitted by a coachbuilder selected by the owner. 60GX has a Park Ward Saloon body, number 3494.Ownership history of 60GX is documented in Volume I of “Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental” by André Blaize. The 2 volume set of books is included with the car. 60GX was first owned by John Sutcliffe Pyman of the UK. Pyman was a cattle breeder and a scion of the Pyman shipping company. Pyman also owned several other Rolls-Royces.
Subsequent owners, all from the UK, include:
Sir Rupert Edward Cecil Lee Guinness – 1933
Major Sir Arthur Onslow Edward Guinness – 1933
Major Bowman – 1945
Williams – 1946
Ernest Edward Turner – 1965
In 1969, Harry J. Holden from the USA purchased the car. Subsequent owners have been Robert Friggins, David Scheibel, Don Wathne and Denean Stafford. Each has kept this car maintained in exquisite condition. It is capable of winning awards in any Concours, RROC, or CCCA events.
This car has undergone several ground-up restorations, resulting in a magnificent running machine. The car has been completely restored from a complete, original car found in New Mexico during the 1980’s. The work was done by world renowned Phantom II specialist E. F. Butch Murphy. The mottled walnut woodwork has been restored to its original beauty and nuts, bolts and screws were replated. Throughout the restoration, painstaking research and very close attention to details for absolute authenticity were followed. The auto has since been serviced and maintained in “show” condition. The paint is carmine over black. The auto can be operated at posted speeds all day. With a top speed of 94 mph, the car is powered by an OHV 7.7L inline 6 cylinder engine, developing 120-158 horsepower, coupled to a 4-speed manual transmission with overdrive. 6 new radial tires and overdrive have been recently added enabling this Rolls to cruise down the road smoothly at over 70 mph.
60GX has been exhibited at the National Rolls-Royce judging meets and in 1988 won First in Class in the Phantom II class. In 1989, the auto was awarded the Rolls-Royce of England (best in show, pre-War). In 1990, 60GX won the Royce Memorial (best of the best in show). This award is for previous “Best of Show” winners that attend the National judging meet. In 1998, the auto won Rolls-Royce of England (best in show, pre-War). In CCCA judging, 60GX has won Primary and Senior awards. It is still in the same magnificent condition today.
