The stunning Rolls Royce Phantom II

Motul’s highly reputational lubricants go back a long way and Motul has an unrivalled history in the development and innovation of lubricants.

As classic cars from yesteryear continue to grow in value and popularity, we take a look back in history to the 1930’s decade and review a car from that era – the amazing Rolls Royce Phantom II. We consider what made the car special and what lubricants are recommended for the astonishing vehicle today.

The Rolls-Royce Phantom II was the third and last 40 – 50 horse power models, replacing the original New Phantom in 1929. It used an improved version of  the Phantom I engine in an all-new chassis. A “Continental” version, with a short wheelbase and stiffer springs, put new automotive luxury at the fore for  willing payers. Continental models were the rarest and most coveted.

These two-seat versions of the car were also the ones where the coach builders of the day really got creative. With 1680 cars produced from 1929 to 1936, the Rolls Royce Phantom II was the height of luxury in the 1930s. The engine in the Phantom II was the sort of thing that you just don’t see anymore, a 7.7-liter inline-6. This carried over from the Phantom I, but was upgraded in several ways. The push-rod overhead-valve cross-flow cylinder head was now aluminium, and featured a twin-spark system. This giant engine produced 120 horsepower, which wasn’t a lot for an engine that size even in 1930. The engine was  designed for smooth power delivery, rather than to have a whole bunch of power up at the top end. Still, the shorter wheelbase and stiffer chassis of the Continental did make for a car that could at least corner.

Driving any properly maintained Phantom II is a marvellous treat. Sublime delivery from the engine, enables this 2-ton beauty with majestic ease and, once rolling, the worm-and-nut steering is precise and superbly weighted. With such reserves of torque, the gear change is barely needed but the action via a deep gate and lovely smooth movement is a joy to operate.

The mechanically servo-assisted drum brakes also inspire, pulling up the big car strongly in an emergency, while the ride, despite the Continental’s sportier specifications – with flatter springs and fewer leaves at the rear – is still serene.

A Star of the Silver Screen, featuring on many films over the years, the Phantom II is a true classic in every sense. Today it could be compared to a private jet, the height of luxury and yet so personally finished.

Motul lubricants are able to provide the correct detergent level and performance lubricants for these beautiful classics, so helping to avoid wear and tear and maintain an astonishing drive.

Motul’s lubricant recommendations for this vehicle would include:

Engine oil

Rear axle oil

Gear oil

Prop shaft oil

Wheel bearings

Steering fluids

Shock oil

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