Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost

vs

Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental

UK vs UK — 1906 vs 1929

Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost (1906)
Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental (1929)
Specifications
Silver Ghost 40/50 HP TourerPhantom II Continental
Horsepower48 hp120 hp
Engine Size7,428 cc7,668 cc
Top Speed65 mph92 mph
Weight3,968 lbs4,850 lbs
Wheelbase3,632 mm3,658 mm
Length4,876 mm5,000 mm
Units Produced7,874278
Value (Excellent)$2,000,000$3,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity8/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer offers lighter weight, better value, while the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental counters with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Rolls-Royce stable, the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer and 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Rolls-Royce badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental holds a clear advantage in raw power with 120 hp compared to 48 hp, a 72-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost uses a Inline-6 Side-Valve displacing 7,428 cc, while the Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 7,668 cc. The 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental claims a higher top speed at 92 mph compared to 65 mph. The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 882 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 278 units built, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental is considerably scarcer than the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost's 7,874 examples. On the collector market, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental commands a significant premium over the 1906 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost 40/50 HP Tourer, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.