Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud

vs

Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII

UK vs UK — 1955 vs 2017

Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud (1955)
Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII (2017)
Specifications
Silver Cloud IIIPhantom VIII Extended Wheelbase
Horsepower220 hp563 hp
Torque335 lb-ft664 lb-ft
Engine Size6,230 cc6,749 cc
0-60 mph10.8 sec5.1 sec
Top Speed115 mph155 mph
¼ Mile18.0 sec13.1 sec
Weight5,886 lbs
Wheelbase3,124 mm3,820 mm
Length5,410 mm5,982 mm
Units Produced2,044
Original MSRP$530,000
Value (Excellent)$250,000$700,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity5/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Rolls-Royce has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III with the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. 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 Cloud uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 6,230 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 10.8 seconds. On the collector market, the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase commands a significant premium over the 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom VIII Extended Wheelbase rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.