Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental

vs

Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn

UK vs UK — 1929 vs 1949

Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental (1929)
Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn (1949)
Specifications
Phantom II ContinentalSilver Dawn Drophead Coupe
Horsepower120 hp130 hp
Torque199 lb-ft
Engine Size7,668 cc4,566 cc
0-60 mph16.0 sec
Top Speed92 mph92 mph
¼ Mile20.5 sec
Weight4,850 lbs3,998 lbs
Wheelbase3,658 mm3,048 mm
Length5,000 mm4,877 mm
Units Produced278760
Value (Excellent)$3,000,000$300,000
Collectibility10/108/10
Rarity9/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental brings greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe answers with lighter weight, 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 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental with the 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental producing 120 hp and the 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe delivering 130 hp. The 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe claims a higher top speed at 92 mph compared to 92 mph. The Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 852 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental commands a significant premium over the 1949 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn Drophead Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Continental rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.