1932 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental Close-Coupled Coupe

Rolls-Royce introduced the Continental version of the Phantom II to cater to owners desirous of high-speed touring over extended distances. Fitted to the shorter-wheelbase chassis and generally equipped with a higher-compression engine and taller gearing, these technical features provided a swift and luxurious conveyance well-suited to the improved road conditions on the European continent. Just 279 Phantom II Continentals were built, and this one is distinguished by handsome one-off close-coupled coupe coachwork by Windovers in well-preserved condition.

The build sheet for chassis 81 JS lists an off-test date of April 29, 1932, destined for Robin McAlpine at Fairmile, the McAlpine estate in Cobham, Surrey. His grandfather, Robert McAlpine Sr., founded the construction empire that built such noteworthy structures as Wembley Stadium and the Dorchester Hotel. The younger McAlpine cultivated a fondness for fine motorcars, later purchasing two additional Phantom IIs and a 25/30 model. McAlpine’s intentions for 81 JS were clearly documented on its build sheet: “Car for use in the UK and on the Continent, mainly for touring.” Specific features included 5:1 compression ratio pistons, the low-rake “F” steering column, a louvered bonnet, a twin rear carrier for the spare tires, and even a “Bentley pattern steering wheel with reeded grip and 1" diameter rim,” all designed to enhance the car’s touring capabilities.

Coachwork for 81 JS was equally impressive. Windovers Ltd. of London crafted a one-off, close-coupled coupe perfectly suited to this high-speed chassis. Carrying design no. 5830, it features a lengthy hood with flowing front fenders uninterrupted by side-mounted spares.

The leading edge of the low roofline incorporates a visor, while the blind rear quarters ensure privacy, creating an intimate passenger compartment accessed by rear-hinged doors. A distinctive chrome beltline molding runs the length of the body, then tapers down to match the contours of the rear fenders. Dual, rear-mounted spares contribute to its sporting stance, a restrained yet purposeful design.

During the first year of ownership, young McAlpine toured the continent with stops along the French Riviera and St. Moritz. For 1933, chassis 81 JS was shipped to New York via RMS Majestic for a more challenging excursion. Departing westward from the Waldorf Astoria in Manhattan, the journey included stops in Chicago for the 1933 Exposition of Progress World’s Fair, Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. A journal chronicled the round-trip adventure which covered more than 10,000 miles, averaging more than 50 mph on some days.

Back home in England, 81 JS was favored for shorter trips, with receipts documenting service through 1939. The car passed to Dr. J.E. Haines in 1948, then to F.R. Burkhart in 1967 via Bugatti enthusiast Jack Lemon Burton. John Nichols acquired the car in 1995 before acquisition by its current owner in 2002. It returned to the States in 2011 to participate in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, where it was entered in the Prewar Preservation class.

Enhancing touring prowess, an overdrive unit was installed, and in 2015, its engine was rebuilt by Phantom II specialist Robin Cooke. Subsequently, it was looked after by Jonathan Wood. Still carrying its original registration plates showing “GY 1225,” chassis 81 JS retains its original two-tone blue color scheme, an understated presentation enhanced by painted wheel discs. Its interior is upholstered in beige ribbed cloth, still in remarkably well-preserved condition. The engine, chassis, and body are all original to this car.

Chassis 81 JS has been enjoyed and appreciated for its many virtues since its delivery date. It has been carefully preserved and is now offered for the first time in the US, offering the rare opportunity to acquire a most handsome Phantom II Continental with a rich history.