Rolls-Royce Phantom

vs

Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith

UK vs UK — 2003 vs 1946

Rolls-Royce Phantom (2003)
Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith (1946)
Specifications
Phantom VII Drophead CoupeSilver Wraith Touring Limousine
Horsepower453 hp135 hp
Torque531 lb-ft207 lb-ft
Engine Size6,749 cc4,566 cc
0-60 mph5.6 sec17.5 sec
Top Speed149 mph87 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec21.0 sec
Weight5,776 lbs4,479 lbs
Wheelbase3,320 mm3,226 mm
Length5,612 mm5,283 mm
Units Produced2,5001,883
Original MSRP$443,000
Value (Excellent)$350,000$350,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity6/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Drophead Coupe brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1946 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Touring Limousine answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Rolls-Royce has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Drophead Coupe with the 1946 Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith Touring Limousine highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Drophead Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 453 hp compared to 135 hp, a 318-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Phantom uses a V12 DOHC displacing 6,749 cc, while the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 4,566 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Drophead Coupe edges ahead at 5.6 seconds versus 17.5 seconds. The Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1297 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.