Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville: 1937’s Pinnacle of Automotive Luxury
The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville stands as a symbol of ultimate luxury, craftsmanship, and engineering excellence in the automotive world. As the last model to be built under the personal supervision of Henry Royce before his passing in 1933, the Phantom III represents the pinnacle of Rolls-Royce’s commitment to quality and prestige. With custom coachwork by Mulliner, one of Britain’s most revered coachbuilders, the Sedanca de Ville variant became a timeless icon that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts.
The Phantom III Legacy
The Rolls-Royce Phantom III was introduced in 1936 as the successor to the Phantom II, making its debut during a time when automobile engineering was evolving rapidly. The Phantom III was notable for being the first and only Rolls-Royce model to feature a V12 engine before World War II, setting it apart from its predecessors and competitors alike. This was a significant technological advancement, allowing the Phantom III to deliver a smooth, powerful, and near-silent driving experience, which was integral to Rolls-Royce’s promise of building the best car in the world.
The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was one of the many variants of the Phantom III that exemplified the height of luxury and customization. Each car was unique, built to the specific tastes and requirements of its elite clientele. The bespoke craftsmanship and cutting-edge engineering of the Phantom III made it the epitome of pre-war luxury motoring.
Customization and Design
H.J. Mulliner & Co., one of Britain’s most prestigious coachbuilders, was responsible for creating the stunning Sedanca de Ville body for the 1937 Phantom III. Mulliner’s designs were renowned for their elegance, attention to detail, and craftsmanship, and the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was no exception. The Sedanca de Ville configuration, with its enclosed rear passenger compartment and an open chauffeur’s cabin, was the ultimate symbol of aristocratic and royal luxury. This unique design allowed passengers to enjoy both the privacy of a limousine and the glamour of a cabriolet.
The craftsmanship of Mulliner’s work was evident in the car’s lavish interior and exterior details. The spacious and opulent rear compartment featured luxurious leather upholstery, wood veneers, and an array of custom fittings tailored to the owner’s desires. Fine hand-stitched leather seating, exquisite woodwork, and a host of advanced features for its time, such as fold-out tables, mirrors, and climate controls, were just a few examples of the attention to detail that defined Rolls-Royce interiors.
The exterior design of the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was equally magnificent. With its sweeping fenders, elegant lines, and imposing front grille, the car exuded an air of stately presence. The chrome accents, iconic Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, and the classic two-tone color scheme only added to its grandeur. The roof over the chauffeur’s compartment could be retracted, allowing the driver to experience the open air while the passengers in the rear compartment remained sheltered in privacy.
The V12 Engine and Driving Experience
One of the defining features of the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was its 7.3-liter V12 engine, a revolutionary development for Rolls-Royce at the time. This V12 powertrain was designed to provide exceptional smoothness and power, with a top speed of around 90 mph (145 km/h), which was impressive for such a large and heavy luxury car. The V12 engine was a major technological leap, offering a level of refinement that allowed the Phantom III to glide effortlessly on the road, even at higher speeds.
The Phantom III also featured advanced suspension technology, with independent front suspension and hydraulic shock absorbers, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The braking system was equally advanced for its time, with vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes, which provided a significant improvement in stopping power and safety.
Driving a 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was an experience unlike any other. The car was designed to make both passengers and drivers feel like they were floating on air, with little road noise or vibration entering the cabin. The driving experience was a blend of power, control, and refinement, with every element of the car engineered to perfection. Rolls-Royce’s famous tagline, “the best car in the world,” was not just a boast—it was a reflection of the Phantom III’s unparalleled performance and craftsmanship.
A Symbol of Status
The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville was not just a car—it was a status symbol. Owned by royalty, heads of state, and the world’s wealthiest individuals, the Phantom III represented the ultimate in prestige and exclusivity. Many of these cars were commissioned by notable figures of the era, and each one was tailor-made to suit the exacting requirements of its owner.
One of the most famous owners of a Rolls-Royce Phantom III was Sir Frederick Henry Royce himself. His personal Phantom III featured custom modifications that reflected his innovative spirit and commitment to perfection. Other prominent figures who owned Phantom IIIs included King George VI of England and several members of European aristocracy, further cementing the car’s place in automotive history as a symbol of wealth and power.
Collectability and Value Today
Today, the 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville is considered one of the most collectible and valuable classic cars in the world. Due to its rarity, bespoke craftsmanship, and historical significance, the Phantom III continues to command high prices at auctions and among private collectors. These cars are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate not only their beauty and luxury but also their place in automotive history.
The Phantom III’s enduring legacy is a testament to Rolls-Royce’s commitment to building cars that transcend time and trends. Each 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville is a unique piece of history, representing the peak of pre-war luxury and craftsmanship. Click here to read MWT Media Blogs
Conclusion
The 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III Mulliner Sedanca de Ville remains a remarkable achievement in automotive design and engineering. As the last car overseen by Henry Royce, it symbolizes the brand’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and luxury. With its V12 engine, bespoke coachwork by Mulliner, and status as a car of kings and magnates, the Phantom III was, and still is, the pinnacle of automotive luxury in 1937.
