2006 Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase Saloon
Registration no. S444 MHR
Chassis no. SCA1S68086UH00432

Vickers' controversial sale of its Rolls-Royce and Bentley brands in 1997, although acrimonious at the time, allowed the two marques to reaffirm their traditional roles in separate ownership: Rolls-Royce continuing to provide the ultimate in luxurious motoring for the plutocracy under BMW's stewardship, with Volkswagen-owned Bentley catering for the wealthy owner-driver with sporting inclinations. Concluded in 1998, the deal left VW in control of the Crewe factory and it was not until January 2003 that Rolls-Royce would be officially re-established at its new home close to Goodwood in Sussex.

An historic model in the continuing history of the Rolls-Royce marque, the 6.7-litre V12-powered Phantom was the first all-new design to be introduced by the company following its takeover by BMW. To the relief of traditionalists, it looked nothing like a BMW, despite the underlying technology. Produced at a new factory near Goodwood in Sussex, the Phantom revived a great name from Rolls-Royce's past that had always been synonymous with unrestrained luxury. In keeping with the tradition established by previous Phantoms, the newcomer was a very large motor car, outstretching the old Silver Seraph (the last Crewe-built Rolls-Royce) by 18" while boasting a radiator shell 4" taller. Priced at around £260,000 at time of launch, it was also 40% more expensive.
While the aluminium body structure represented the ultimate in automotive technology, its accoutrements remained entirely traditional in choice of materials, consisting of the finest hide trim, genuine woollen carpets and carefully selected wood veneers. Certain dashboard features recalled those of earlier models, while there was a choice of five-seater ('Lounge') or four-seater ('Theatre') accommodation. In March 2005 an 'Extended Wheelbase' Phantom was at the Geneva Motor Show, which was 250mm (9.8") longer than the standard car with a starting price of £300,000.

First registered as 'HY06 ANV', this Extended Wheelbase Phantom is finished in two-tone Silver over Royal Blue with Moccasin leather upholstery and carpets, matching lambs' wool rugs, walnut burr veneer dashboard/instrument panel area (without cross-banding), and colour-keyed boot trim.

Other notable features include the following: 21" aluminium wheels, Camera system, Individual rear seats with additional recline to nearside seat, Theatre configuration to the rear compartment, Cool-box and drinks cabinet, Telephone handset for rear compartment, Picnic tables with double-sided veneer, Reversible footrest, Battery charger, Leather bumper protection apron and an Indoor car cover.

The recorded mileage at the last MoT (8th March 2022) was 29,284 and only a few miles have been added to the total since then. A wonderful opportunity to own a little used example of Rolls-Royce's flagship model.