1956 Rolls Royce Phantom IV

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars are fit for royalty! Such as Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh who commissioned the 1956 Rolls Royce Phantom IV. With only 18 made between 1950 and 1956, it’s a rare sight to see. As Berkley One Classics celebrates the big 5-0, we’re hosting an exciting virtual car show for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We’ll share our love of classic cars by spotlighting 50 cars for 50 years that have been chosen and beloved by our employees. Each will showcase the evolution of design and engineering and provide a nostalgic journey through auto and pop culture history. Read on as Trenton Johnson, Berkley One Personal Lines Underwriter, tells us why he loves the Rolls Royce Phantom IV.

Prefer to read a text version of the above graphic? We’ve got you covered below!

The Car

Made for a Royal, the Phantom IV was one of only 18 made by Rolls Royce. The first model was developed when Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, commissioned Rolls Royce to create a limousine. Opulent both inside and out, the Phantom IV was built on a lengthened silver chassis and powered by a 5.7 litre 164 horsepower, straight eight engine.

The interior featured seating for five with four doors, leather interior and door panels with wood veneer. The body of the car is made of aluminum, a material that is light weight and improves a car’s acoustic abilities by shielding noise and vibrations. The car’s length is just under 19 feet with a wheelbase of 145 inches.

The Collector

With only 18 made between 1950 and 1956 and 16 that have survived, the Rolls Royce Phantom IV is an incredibly rare vehicle.

The vehicle was sold only to royalty and heads of state and the price was never revealed. With so few of these extraordinary vehicles existing, it is a celebrated occasion when one reaches the auction block.

The Love

The Rolls Royce Phantom IV stands out to me because of the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine on the hood of the car. While there is considerable history behind Rolls Royce’s use of this sculpture, to their owners, it is a symbol of dreams, energy, grace and beauty.

–

Contributed by Trenton Johnson

Photo: iStock

–

This car feature is part of our 50 Cars for 50 Years campaign in honor of Berkley One Classics celebrating 50 year of insuring collectors and their vehicles. See the other cars we love here:

Spotlight #1, Spotlight #2, Spotlight #3, Spotlight #4, Spotlight #5, Spotlight #6, Spotlight #7, Spotlight #8, Spotlight #9, Spotlight #10, Spotlight #11, Spotlight #12, Spotlight #13

–

Berkley One Classics is a Berkley Company who recognizes that classic cars are unique and require insurance that’s equally distinctive. Let us help you protect your beloved vehicle so you can enjoy it for years to come. Learn more here.