Rolls-Royce built 18 Phantom IVs.
Produced between 1950 and 1956, the Phantom IV was an exceptionally exclusive postwar model. Rolls-Royce sold the cars only to royalty and heads of state, making the series less a conventional production line than a tightly controlled collection of bespoke commissions. Every example received a body from an independent coachbuilder, allowing its appearance and interior to be tailored to its distinguished owner.
The first Phantom IV was commissioned for Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. It was initially painted Valentine green, then changed to royal claret and black after Elizabeth became queen in 1952. The car remains in the Royal Mews and has occasionally served at major royal events. Spain also ordered three armoured Phantom IVs for General Francisco Franco, later used ceremonially by the Spanish royal family.
The model’s engineering was unusual, too. It was the only Rolls-Royce motorcar fitted with a straight-eight engine: the first 15 used a 5.7-liter unit, while the final three received a 6.5-liter version. Sixteen of the 18 cars are reported to survive.