1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has introduced a singular Phantom Extended that celebrates the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger, part of the brand’s long association with the 007 franchise, appearing in twelve films to date.

• Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has created a one-off Phantom Extended model honoring the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger.

• This special edition is inspired by the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, driven by the villain Auric Goldfinger in the film.

• Named Phantom Goldfinger, this model includes bespoke features linked to iconic Goldfinger scenes, like the Furka Pass and Auric Goldfinger’s golf putter.

• The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III was the last large pre-war Rolls-Royce model and the final V12 model until the 1998 Silver Seraph.

• Only 727 Phantom III chassis were built from 1936 to 1939, with about 650 still surviving today.

• Engineering highlights include a 7.32L aluminum-alloy V12 engine, twin ignition systems with 24 spark plugs, and a twin SU electric fuel pump.

• Unique features included wire wheels or optional Ace discs, a one-shot chassis lubrication system, and independent front suspension with semi-elliptical rear springs.

• The Phantom III’s performance was notable for its era, with a top speed of 87½ mph and 0–60 mph time of 16.8 seconds.

• Custom bodywork for the Phantom III was crafted by coachbuilders such as Barker, Park Ward, and Mulliner, featuring a variety of body types.

• The Phantom III’s cultural impact includes its role in Goldfinger, where it transported gold across Europe, cementing its legacy in automotive and film history.

Inspired by the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of Goldfinger, this special edition draws inspiration from the 1937 Phantom III Sedanca de Ville, owned by Auric Goldfinger in the film. This homage, known as Phantom Goldfinger, showcases a range of unique bespoke elements directly inspired by Goldfinger’s iconic scenes and themes.

Bespoke Features Reflecting Goldfinger Film Details

Phantom Goldfinger embodies some of the most intricate bespoke features ever engineered by Rolls-Royce, with three years of development dedicated to translating the film’s essence into the car. These include a sculptural Gallery inspired by the memorable Furka Pass scene and a gold golf putter mounted inside the boot, a nod to the club Goldfinger used when first meeting James Bond.

Historical Legacy of the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Sedanca de Ville

The Rolls-Royce Phantom III marked the end of pre-war Rolls-Royce models. First introduced in 1936, it was the last V12 model until the Silver Seraph debuted in 1998. Only 727 chassis were built between 1936 and 1939, with approximately 650 still surviving. This was also the final model overseen by Henry Royce, who passed away during its development.

Engineering Specifications of the Phantom III

Equipped with a 7.32L aluminum-alloy V12 engine, the Phantom III introduced advanced engineering for its time. Its V12 engine featured twin ignition systems, including dual distributors, coils, and 24 spark plugs, and it utilized a twin SU electric fuel pump. Standard wire wheels could be upgraded with Ace discs for easier maintenance. The vehicle included a one-shot chassis lubrication system, along with independent front suspension supported by coil springs and a semi-elliptical rear spring system. With a 4-speed manual transmission and synchromesh on gears 2 to 4, an overdrive was added in 1938, enhancing the car's highway capability. Servo-assisted four-wheel brakes ensured stopping power.

Performance Characteristics Reflecting the Phantom III’s Size

Autocar magazine’s 1938 test reported a top speed of 87½ mph (140 km/h) and acceleration from 0–60 mph in 16.8 seconds. Its substantial size resulted in a fuel economy of 10 mpg (28 L/100 km).

Custom Coachbuilt Bodywork

Rolls-Royce supplied the Phantom III chassis and mechanical components, while the bodywork was handled by renowned coachbuilders like Barker, Park Ward, and Mulliner, creating saloons, coupés, and convertibles. Some vehicles were later modified into hearses or shooting brakes.

Phantom III’s Role in Goldfinger and Film Legacy

The Phantom III’s reputation in popular culture was solidified in Goldfinger, when Auric Goldfinger’s black and yellow Phantom III, driven by Oddjob, transported gold across Europe. This historical and cultural link continues to inspire collectors and Rolls-Royce enthusiasts.

Source

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