Rolls-Royce Corniche

vs

Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental

UK vs UK — 1971 vs 1929

Rolls-Royce Corniche (1971)
Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental (1929)
Specifications
Corniche ConvertiblePhantom II Continental
Horsepower240 hp120 hp
Torque361 lb-ft
Engine Size6,750 cc7,668 cc
0-60 mph9.6 sec
Top Speed120 mph92 mph
¼ Mile17.0 sec
Weight4,850 lbs
Wheelbase3,060 mm3,658 mm
Length5,270 mm5,000 mm
Units Produced4,200278
Value (Excellent)$200,000$3,000,000
Collectibility5/1010/10
Rarity7/109/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental counters with greater rarity, stronger collectibility. 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 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible 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 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible holds a clear advantage in raw power with 240 hp compared to 120 hp, a 120-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Rolls-Royce Corniche uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,750 cc, while the Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental relies on a Inline-6 OHV with 7,668 cc. The 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible claims a higher top speed at 120 mph compared to 92 mph. 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 Corniche's 4,200 examples. On the collector market, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental commands a significant premium over the 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.