Rolls-Royce Phantom VI

:"See also Rolls-Royce Phantom for other models sharing this name"Infobox Automobile
name =Rolls-Royce Phantom VI


manufacturer=Rolls-Royce Ltd (defunct 1973)
Rolls-Royce Motors
production =1968–1991
374 produced
predecessor =Phantom V
successor =Phantom (2003)
engine =6.2 L Rolls-Royce V8
6.75 L Rolls-Royce V8
wheelbase =3.683 m (145 in)
length =6.05 m (238 in)
weight =2.5 tons (approx)
related=Silver Cloud III

The Phantom VI was an ultra-exclusive Rolls-Royce model produced in London at Mulliner Park Ward. It was made from 1968-1991.

Though it had been expressed that the days of motor cars of the like of the Rolls-Royce Phantom V were undoubtedly numbered, in 1968 Rolls-Royce launched the Phantom VI as a logical progression keeping up the high standards set in the past. The Phantom VI had a re-styled facia and was powered by an engine developed from that of the current Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow. An increase in capacity to 6,750 cc in 1979 was coupled with the introduction of a 3-speed automatic transmission instead of the previously employed 4-speed automatic gearbox. This last specimen of a passenger motor car with separate chassis produced by Rolls-Royce was offered until 1991. The chassis used coil springing in front, but used leaf springs in the rear and all round drum brakes.

Most of the bodies were by Mulliner Park Ward usually limousines but a few landaulettes were also made.

A Phantom VII car was discussed in the 1970s, based on the Silver Shadow's body, but plans were dropped. No prototypes were built. So, since a Phantom VII never came to pass, technically Rolls-Royce's latest Phantom model should be called the Phantom VII. Some overseas dealers do indeed refer to it as the Phantom VII.

Queen Elizabeth II's fleet of cars includes two Rolls-Royce Phantom VI models, the custom-built 'Silver Jubilee Car' presented by the British motor industry to celebrate her 25th anniversary on the throne in 1977, and a more conventional 1986 model. The Silver Jubilee model, with its raised roof and enlarged glazed area, was the 'Number One State Car' until the introduction of the two Bentley State Limousine models in 2002. Like the other state cars, the Phantom VI models have no registration plates and a special mount for a Royal Standard and coat of arms. When in use by the Queen, the Spirit of Ecstasy is replaced by a custom-made solid silver model of St George slaying the dragon.

Engine

The Phantom had a 90 degree V8 with a capacity of 6,230 cc with a bore of 104 mm and stroke of 91.5 mm. This was raised in 1982 to 6,750 cc by fitting the engine from the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit. Twin SU carburettors were fitted. The car had a 4-speed automatic gearbox (from 1979 a 3-speed automatic gearbox with torque converter became standard).

When production ended 374 had been made.

Movie appearances

Invasion:UFO (1972), Banzai Runner (1987), etc [ [http://www.imcdb.org/vehicles.php?make=Rolls-Royce&model=Phantom+VI Internet Movie Cars Database: Rolls-Royce Phantom VI in Movies and TV series] ] .

References

[ [http://joelkerrfunerals.co.uk/funeral-cars.php Queen's Rolls Royce Phantom VI Limousines] ]