The Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase, specifically the 6.75 i V12 48V (460 Hp) ED variant, represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring produced between 2003 and 2012. As the successor to the Silver Seraph, the Phantom VII marked a return to Rolls-Royce’s traditional large-bodied, V12-powered grand tourers after BMW’s acquisition of the brand. The “Extended Wheelbase” designation signifies a lengthened chassis, prioritizing rear passenger space and comfort – a key feature for owners often chauffeured rather than driving themselves. This model competed with other ultra-luxury sedans like the Bentley Arnage and Maybach 62, establishing itself as a symbol of status and bespoke craftsmanship.
Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase: A Legacy of Luxury
The Phantom VII was a significant departure from its predecessor, utilizing a completely new platform developed under BMW ownership. This allowed for a more modern and technologically advanced vehicle while retaining the core values of a Rolls-Royce: a supremely comfortable ride, near-silent operation, and an opulent interior. The 6.75 i V12 48V ED model, with its 460 horsepower output, represents a refined iteration of the Phantom VII, offering a balance of performance and effortless cruising ability. The “ED” designation likely refers to an ‘Enhanced Delivery’ package, offering further customization options.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase 6.75 i V12 48V (460 Hp) ED lies a naturally aspirated 6.75-liter V12 engine, codenamed N73B68A. This engine produces 460 horsepower at 5350 rpm and a substantial 720 Nm (531.04 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s architecture is front-mounted and longitudinal, driving the rear wheels. Power is delivered through a 6-speed automatic transmission, optimized for smooth and seamless gear changes. Despite its considerable weight (2670 kg or 5886.34 lbs), the Phantom VII achieves a 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) time of approximately 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h (149.13 mph). The power-to-weight ratio stands at 172.3 Hp/tonne, while the torque-to-weight ratio is 269.7 Nm/tonne. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, is not a priority, with combined figures averaging 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg or 17.8 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase is a classic, formal sedan with a long hood, a prominent grille, and a stately profile. The extended wheelbase adds approximately 250mm (10 inches) to the standard Phantom’s length, resulting in a total length of 6084 mm (239.53 in). This extra length is almost entirely dedicated to rear passenger legroom. The body is constructed using a spaceframe chassis, providing a rigid and safe platform. Inside, the Phantom VII is renowned for its handcrafted interior, utilizing the finest leather, wood veneers, and bespoke detailing. Features include power-adjustable seats with massage functions, a premium sound system, climate control, and a host of other luxury amenities. Safety features, while not as advanced as modern systems, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The focus was on providing a serene and isolated driving experience, minimizing noise and vibration for both the driver and passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Phantom |
| Generation | Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase |
| Type (Engine) | 6.75 i V12 48V (460 Hp) ED |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 24.6 l/100 km (9.6 US mpg, 11.5 UK mpg, 4.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 172.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 269.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 460 Hp @ 5350 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 720 Nm @ 3500 rpm (531.04 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N73B68A |
| Engine displacement | 6749 cm3 (411.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.6 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2670 kg (5886.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3170 kg (6988.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 6084 mm (239.53 in.) |
| Width | 1990 mm (78.35 in.) |
| Height | 1632 mm (64.25 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3820 mm (150.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
The Rolls-Royce Phantom VII Extended Wheelbase 6.75 i V12 48V (460 Hp) ED remains a highly sought-after vehicle, representing a golden age of automotive luxury and craftsmanship. Its blend of performance, comfort, and exclusivity continues to appeal to discerning collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
