Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow

vs

Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII

UK vs UK — 1965 vs 2017

Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow (1965)
Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII (2017)
Specifications
Silver Shadow StandardPhantom VIII Extended Wheelbase
Horsepower220 hp563 hp
Torque332 lb-ft664 lb-ft
Engine Size6,750 cc6,749 cc
0-60 mph10.9 sec5.1 sec
Top Speed118 mph155 mph
¼ Mile17.8 sec13.1 sec
Weight4,647 lbs5,886 lbs
Wheelbase3,038 mm3,820 mm
Length5,169 mm5,982 mm
Units Produced30,057
Original MSRP$18,900$530,000
Value (Excellent)$80,000$700,000
Collectibility6/107/10
Rarity4/106/10
The Verdict

The 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Standard counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

Within the Rolls-Royce stable, the 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Standard and 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Rolls-Royce badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase holds a clear advantage in raw power with 563 hp compared to 220 hp, a 343-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,750 cc, while the Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII relies on a V12 Twin-Turbo with 6,749 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase edges ahead at 5.1 seconds versus 10.9 seconds. The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1239 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase commands a significant premium over the 1965 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Standard, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.