Istorie
4AF12 was a Limousine by Hooper originally used by the factory to transport their big boss, Lord Hives, but this was then sold to Princess Marina the Duchess of Kent.
The Tiriac Collection is the only current gallery that features all 7 Phantom models of the I-VII series.
Full description
The Phantom IV was the most exclusive Rolls-Royce model ever built. Only 18 were made between 1950 and 1956, exclusively for royalty and heads of state, without further selling option. Of these, 16 specimens have survived.
By creating the Phantom IV the manufacturer broke with their earlier decision to cease production of the series of "big" Rolls-Royce Phantoms after the end of the Second World War. All examples of this unique model were bodied by independent coachbuilders and their bonnets surmounted by the kneeling version of the Spirit of Ecstasy.
This particular Phantom, Chassis no. 4AF12, was a Limousine by Hooper originally used by the factory to transport their big boss, Ernest Walter Hives, the one-time head of the Rolls-Royce Aero Engine division and chairman of Rolls-Royce Ltd. But because Lord Hives preferred driving a Bentley, the car was sold to Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent.
Although the car was originally equipped with a manual 4 speed transmission, the car received an automatic transmission when it was sold to Princess Marina the Duchess of Kent. Born as Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark (13 December 1906 – 27 August 1968), she was a member of the Royal British family, the wife of Prince George, Duke of Kent. Her husband, the Duke of Kent, wanted to drive the car himself, not just be driven in it so he it was at his request the gearbox was changed from manual to automatic.
The car was also equipped with a few new features for the Duchess of Kent. A make-up mirror was placed on the inside of the middle armrest from the back seat. A cigarette case was also build into the same armrest. And the Duchesses monogram, a stylized “M”, was painted on the exterior of each of the back doors.
Other interesting options available on the car included, two reading lights placed above the backseats, and a separate heating system for the back seats.
The car was professionally restored to a Pebble Beach level. The body has been painted in the original dark blue color, the interior wood work has been flawlessly refinished
The Tiriac Collection is the only current gallery that features all 7 Phantom models of the I-VII series.
