BODYWORK: A one-off creation by the renowned Barcelona coachbuilder Pedro Serra, handcrafted in 1957 and inspired by Rolls-Royce’s factory designs of the 1950s. It was restored approximately 25 years ago and remains very well preserved, both in terms of paintwork and chrome.

MECHANICS: Rolls-Royce’s choice of a V12 engine for the new Phantom III was a logical one, given the company’s extensive experience in producing V12 aero engines. Another important factor was the need to compete with multi-cylinder rivals, particularly the Cadillac V16 and the Hispano-Suiza V12. The maximum output was ultimately raised to 180 hp, sufficient to propel the Phantom III, such as the example offered here, to speeds of up to 160 km/h, an extraordinary achievement for such a solidly built and luxuriously appointed motorcar.

INTERIOR: In good condition. During the restoration carried out around 25 years ago, the interior was reupholstered in high-quality cloth, which has been very well preserved. The wood trim, however, now requires restoration due to wear. Luxuriously equipped, it features a division window and a built-in cocktail cabinet.

DOCUMENTS: Comes with original Spanish period documentation and is registered in Spain as a Historic Vehicle, with all the advantages and exemptions that this status entails.

HISTORY: This Phantom III has a particularly fascinating history. It was originally sold in Germany in 1937 and delivered to the famous Berlin coachbuilder Erdmann & Rossi. An original period photograph taken in their workshops, showing the car upon completion, is included. Presumably after the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1939, it came into the possession of José Finat y Escrivá de Romaní (Madrid, 11 February 1904 - Madrid, 9 June 1995), also known as the Count of Mayalde. He was a Spanish aristocrat, lawyer, military officer and politician, who served as Mayor of Madrid from 1952 to 1965.

A trusted associate of Francisco Franco and Ramón Serrano Suñer, he held various political and administrative posts during the Franco regime, including Director General of Security (1939-1941), Civil Governor of the Province of Madrid (1939-1940), and Spanish Ambassador to Nazi Germany (1941-1942). It is almost certain that the Rolls-Royce came into his possession during his time in Germany and that he brought it back with him upon returning to Spain.

In 1957, when the car was already 20 years old, it was entrusted to the man considered the finest Spanish coachbuilder of the time, Pedro Serra, who with great skill created a stately body inspired by the designs Rolls-Royce itself was producing in the 1950s. The vehicle went on to have an eventful life that included several years in Brazil, after which it returned to Spain around 25 years ago and underwent a complete restoration.