# Rolls-Royce Phantom — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Rolls-Royce Phantom on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/rolls-royce-phantom

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2018
- **Ideal trim**: Standard Wheelbase
- **Target mileage**: 20,000
–40,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £220,000

## Why this model

If you're looking for the absolute pinnacle of luxury and presence, the Rolls-Royce Phantom is an unparalleled choice. It offers an incredibly serene and refined driving experience, with a powerful V12 engine that delivers effortless performance. The interior craftsmanship is second to none, using the finest materials and offering extensive customisation. It's a statement car that holds its value better than many other ultra-luxury vehicles after the initial depreciation hit, making a used one a 'relative' bargain compared to new.

## What you should pay

Used Rolls-Royce Phantoms, especially the current VIII generation, still command very high prices. However, they've already taken a significant depreciation hit from their new price of well over £350,000. For a 2018-2020 model, you're looking at around 50-60% of its original value, which is substantial savings. Prices vary wildly based on specification and mileage, so be prepared for a wide range. Always factor in the cost of a pre-purchase inspection from a Rolls-Royce specialist.

## Which trim to buy

The 'Standard Wheelbase' (SWB) Phantom VIII offers the full, uncompromised Rolls-Royce experience without the added length and cost of the 'Extended Wheelbase' (EWB) version. While the EWB offers even more rear legroom, the SWB is already incredibly spacious and often more practical for navigating UK roads and parking. It still retains all the luxury, performance, and presence you expect from a Phantom, making it the best value proposition for a driver or an owner who occasionally sits in the back.

## What to check before you buy

- Air suspension components (can be very costly to repair)
- Complex electronic systems (infotainment glitches, sensor failures)
- Minor interior trim issues (rattles, wear on high-touch areas)
- Brake wear (due to weight and performance)

## Running costs

Running a Rolls-Royce Phantom is incredibly expensive. Fuel costs will be high due to the 6.75L V12 engine and its low MPG (around 18 mpg). At current petrol prices (approx. £1.50/litre), you're looking at roughly 75-85 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a car of this value and engine size is in the highest band, currently £695 per year for cars registered after April 2017 for the first five years, then £190 per year thereafter. Insurance will be extremely high due to the car's value and repair costs. Servicing must be done by Rolls-Royce specialists, and parts are bespoke and very costly. Expect annual running costs to easily exceed £5,000-£10,000, not including depreciation.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 563 hp
- **Mpg**: 18 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Very good, but complex and expensive to maintain
- **Safety Rating**: Not rated by Euro NCAP

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Standard Wheelbase | £380,000 | £230,000 | 6.75L Twin-Turbo V12 engine; Satellite-aided transmission; Self-levelling air suspension |
| Extended Wheelbase | £450,000 | £270,000 | All Standard Wheelbase features plus:; Increased rear legroom (220mm longer); Privacy glass |
| Bespoke Commission (High Spec) | £550,000 | £290,000 | All Extended Wheelbase features plus:; Unique paint finish; Custom interior materials and colours |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £220,000 | 0% |
| 2027 | £200,000 | 9.09% |
| 2028 | £185,000 | 15.91% |
| 2029 | £170,000 | 22.73% |
| 2030 | £155,000 | 29.55% |

The 2018 model year for the Phantom VIII represents a sweet spot because it has already absorbed the steepest part of its depreciation curve from new. While it will continue to depreciate, the rate slows down significantly compared to the first few years. You get a relatively modern car with all the current generation's features at a much more accessible (though still very high) price point, offering better value retention moving forward.

Total value lost since new: 29.55%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Bentley Mulsanne
- Mercedes-Maybach S-Class
- Range Rover SVAutobiography

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.