1929 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Springfield Tourer

The production of the Phantom model at the Springfield plant began a year after Derby, in 1926, and followed the technical independence established by the last Silver Ghosts, making the American Phantom distinct from its English counterpart from the start. It was built on the same chassis as the English version but with a shorter wheelbase.

Production would continue for two more years in America as the modifications of the New Phantom required complex technical adaptations, particularly the relocation of the steering wheel to the left side and the gear levers to the center. The gearbox had three speeds instead of the four in the English version. The American models featured mechanical traits absent in the English versions, such as a central lubrication system, disposable oil filters, an air filter in the carburetor, and thermostatic control blades in the radiator.

Most of the cars were bodyworked in the United States and were cataloged by the Rolls-Royce Custom Coachwork association, which grouped the contracted builders, with Brewster & Co being the main supplier.

The yellow and black sedancalette model, acquired in 1996, features as its main external difference a lower windshield, which is not foldable. It is fully convertible, leaving the window frames rigid, which can be removed to acquire a torpedo shape. It lacks cooling vents and windows. The seats are black leather, and there is no partition.

Between 1926 and 1931, a total of 1,241 Phantom I cars with left-hand drive were built at the Springfield factory. Although most cars were built by Brewster, other distinguished coachbuilders such as Barker, Mulliner, and Park Ward, among others, left their mark with their creations.

• Chasis: S383FM
• Carrocería: Brewster
• Motor:  L6 / 7.668cc /100cv
• Periodo: 1926-1931 USA
• Unidades: 1.243 uds USA