Summary

Fabulous, fully restored Rolls-Royce Phantom II with one-off Binder coachwork and an updated late-specification chassis. A superlative driving machine with outstanding history. The 7.7-liter inline-6 engine was overhauled in 2000. Manual transmission.

Details

In the early 1920s, the President of Brazil suggested to his friend Octavio Guinle that Rio de Janeiro needed a world-class attraction to bring tourists to its pristine beaches, and that Guinle should build it. Acting on the encouragement of the president, Guinle built the now-legendary Copacabana Palace, a world-famous hot spot for the rich and famous to enjoy fun and sun. In 1930s, with his hotel a roaring success, Guinle treated himself to a brand new Rolls-Royce Phantom II, widely considered in its day to be the best automobile money could buy. Guinle purchased his Phantom II chassis through the dealer Oscar A. Cox & Co. of London and commissioned one of Paris’ most exclusive coachbuilders, Binder, to supply the body. Binder was known the world over as a constructor of exceptional motor bodies, their exquisite build quality only surpassed by the distinctly French styling. Rolls-Royce did not offer their own bodies, so cars were sold as bare chassis, then shipped to a coachbuilder of the dealer or buyer’s choice. Upon its completion and testing by Rolls Royce, Guinle’s Phantom II chassis was delivered to Binder’s facility in Paris, where this stunningly beautiful and sporty Victoria-style drophead coupe was constructed, featuring a long, low and elegant profile. To keep the body as clean as possible, trunk was integrated between the rear fenders, and the spare wheel mounted at the rear as well. After completion of the spectacular and unique coachwork, the car was shipped to Rio, where it was enjoyed by Guinle and his family, no doubt looking positively beautiful parked proudly in front of the Copacabana, which also happened to be the work of a great French designer. The Rolls-Royce remained in the Guinle family’s possession until 1938, when it was exported back to England and purchased by Mr. W.D. Radcliffe of Liverpool. It was then owned by Mr. B. Stinton Johnson of Stretton Hall, Cheshire, from 1947-1950 and then Neil Tuson of London. Eventually, it found its way to the United States, where it was featured in several prominent collections, including those of Bill Lassiter, The Blackhawk Collection, the Imperial Palace Collection and finally Dr. Donald Vestley, a respected Rolls-Royce enthusiast who took on the task of restoring this magnificent automobile back to its former glory. While owned by Dr. Vestley, the Phantom II underwent a comprehensive restoration. During restoration, the original engine and body would be mated to an improved, late-production, long-wheelbase chassis that featured a number of factory refinements to the suspension and brakes, as well as a central chassis lubrication system, which makes it an ideal choice for drivers. Today, the restoration has mellowed only slightly and the car presents in stunningly beautiful condition throughout, with excellent paintwork and inviting red leather upholstery. The Binder coachwork is imposing and sleek, with a unique sloping rear body line and a low-slung, three-position, Victoria-style roof. The rear-mount spare wheel and integrated trunk between the rear fenders allow for a clean and uncluttered look, while the chrome wire wheels and blackwall tires accentuate the dramatic appearance. The chassis and the engine compartment are clean and well-detailed, and records indicate the 7.7-liter inline-6 was overhauled in 2000 and is said to remain in excellent running order today. The Phantom II is a fantastic car to drive, thanks to the tremendous torque of the 7.7-liter engine and the highly advanced chassis. Experienced owners often use them on long journeys and tours, as they are known for their tremendous reliability and ease of use. This incredible Rolls Royce Phantom II is so very special in the coming together of fabulous, one-off coachwork by one of Paris’ most revered coachbuilders, fascinating early history in 1930s Rio de Janeiro and a beautiful restoration that has been maintained in excellent mechanical condition.