This 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, wearing elegant Freestone & Webb coachwork, has resurfaced, here on craigslist after over 40 years in storage and is now part of an estate sale in Los Gatos, California. Finished in black with burgundy accents and a matching burgundy interior, this rare prewar luxury car is described as being largely original, though its body was transplanted onto a Dodge frame in the early 1980s. The seller notes it requires only “minor work” to be brought back to presentable condition and is accepting all reasonable offers. For Rolls-Royce collectors, this Phantom III represents a rare opportunity to own one of the marque’s most prestigious models, albeit with a significant modification to its underpinnings.
The Phantom III was the last prewar Rolls-Royce built before production halted during World War II, and it represented the pinnacle of engineering for the brand in the 1930s. Its V12 engine, independent front suspension, and smooth ride made it one of the most advanced luxury cars of its time. Custom coachwork by firms such as Freestone & Webb, Park Ward, and Hooper elevated the chassis into rolling works of art, each one tailored to the buyer’s taste.
This example retains its elegant lines, with the two-tone black and burgundy paintwork complementing the rich burgundy interior. Photos would be essential to assess the overall condition, especially after such a long period of storage, but the seller describes it as “completely original” apart from the frame swap. That Dodge frame swap, carried out in the early 1980s, is a controversial choice that will almost certainly impact its value to purists—but it could make the car easier to service and drive for someone more interested in usability than originality.
The seller suggests that only minor work is needed to make it presentable again, though the mechanical condition of the V12 engine and running gear, if it still retains its original drivetrain, is unknown. After decades in storage, a careful inspection of fluids, wiring, and the braking system would be required before any real road use.
Phantom IIIs are highly sought after in original condition, especially those with distinguished coachwork, but the Dodge frame transplant likely limits this car to a niche buyer—perhaps someone looking for a striking prewar driver rather than a concours restoration candidate. Still, the rarity and history of Freestone & Webb-bodied cars can’t be ignored. Would you restore this Phantom III to its former glory, or enjoy it as a unique blend of British luxury and American practicality?
The ad lists it as an 8 cylinder; kinda sounds like someone rigged it to fit the newer chassis while leaving the body somewhat intact though you have to wonder what of the original instruments inside actually work..
A lot of questions, like, where’s the original frame and engine, why’d they change it, does it run, how is it titled, is it worth buying to flip to someone with a like chassis and engine, and as asked earlier WHY?
There were only about 700 Rolls Royce designed V-12 engines used in the Phantoms. Parts are extremely hard to find, I have heard $1000 distributor caps and there are two on each engine.
I am confident the original engine was treasured and found its way to use.
The original frame might now have a Merlin V12 with retro sports body on it. This sometimes happens to old chassis so they can call it the age of the vehicle.
The Merlin engine was not the same as the V 12 this car originally had. That was a 1650 cubic inch monster that by the end of ww2 was producing near 2000 horsepower. It was not a car engine by any means. As an aside Packard license built the Merlin during WW2
Lots of pics for a Craigslist ad. But zero of the drive train. I hope it’s at least a V-8. And good luck with that six figure ask.
P3 V12 has serious issues with electrolysis on the motor if not maintain they an endless money pi , good luck to the next owner
Why does it sit so high? Like it has a lift kit?
It’s riding on a Dodge chassis, according to the write up.
Nothing to see here unless you enthusiatically embrace the grotesque.
However, if this was on a Dodge Power Wagon 4×4 chassis, and sat about 3’ higher, some people would be drooling all over it…
John, the reason they would drool over it is because they were lobotomized.
My guess is 40 k on a good day to some outfit that provides limos for wedding proms etc.
What a waste of fine custom coachwork. Maybe could provide body to an RR chassis, return it to its roots.
Definitely a Pebble Beach candidate if you’re wealthy enough to get into that game.
Certainly not with a Dodge frame!
Would it even be eligible for Pebble Beach with the Dodge frame?
The Dodge frame blew it for me. I don’t like frankencars!
Looks to me like the Dodge frame was too short for the body. Rear wheels aren’t even centered in the fender, because the wheelbase is too short! Rear end also sits way too high. Maybe a truck chassis? A lot of value lost to a ill-advised and poorly executed modification! I’m not convinced a jury-rigged truck chassis makes this car “easier to service and drive” than the original well-engineered and well-built RR chassis.
That’s what I was thinking.. the Dodge frame definitely didn’t fit the Phantom III body all that well.. it sits too high and the rear wheel doesn’t match the opening in the body. I definitely can’t see anybody laying down that kind of money for this car, it isn’t even a decent restomod.
Please get rid of those ugly white walls .
Get a glass jar of GreyPupon mustard and go for a drive and enjoy it
Would it even be eligible for Pebble Beach with the Dodge frame?
If they have a demolition derby