FYI: The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance recently showcased some of the most exquisite automotive designs, including a standout from Frua—the 1971 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI All-Weather Cabriolet.
A Tribute to Frua at Pebble Beach
Last weekend, the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance celebrated both the 110th anniversary of Maserati and the distinguished works of Italian coachbuilder Frua. The event included two dedicated classes: one for Frua’s unique Maserati creations and another for his designs for various brands. Among these masterpieces stood a personal favorite, the 1971 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI Full All-Weather Cabriolet—arguably the greatest representation of Frua’s exceptional craftsmanship.
The First Crossover Convertible: 1971 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI
The 1971 Rolls-Royce Phantom VI Full All-Weather Cabriolet is often heralded as the first real crossover convertible. Only two Phantom VI chassis were ever outfitted with Frua coachwork, making this vehicle exceptionally rare. The world’s introduction to this model spans from its initial delivery to Frua in 1971 until its completion in 1993, ten years after Frua’s death.
Originally, British property developer Robert "Bobby" Buchanan Michaelson commissioned this car. However, it was sold to American collector James Leake in 1977, who then took charge of its completion. The car finally made its public debut in its finished form at the 1993 Geneva Auto Show.
An Engineering Marvel
Despite the unique engineering challenges—mainly due to language barriers between the Italian-speaking Frua team and Rolls-Royce’s English-speaking staff—the result was a masterpiece that sold for $385,000 in Monterey in 2017. This Rolls-Royce is not just a vehicle; it is a testament to the power of persistence and creativity across linguistic and cultural divides.
Design & Features
This distinctive Phantom VI contrasts starkly with the traditional design of the regular model. It exudes an SUV-like presence with its elongated, tall, and boxy frame, measuring an impressive 21 feet. The vehicle can be reconfigured in various ways, from a sedanca de ville to a landaulet, offering versatility in weather conditions.
Inside, the car boasts an exquisite parquet floor and a folding rear table with an intricate flowerpot design. Luxuries for rear passengers include a full drinks cabinet, a removable silk-upholstered vanity, a Davidoff cigar humidor, and a Blaupunkt stereo system complete with TV and VCR controls.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 6.2-liter V8
- Power: 217 horsepower
- Transmission: Four-speed automatic
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels
- Suspension: Independent front suspension and semi-floating rear axle
Frua Class at the Concours
Unfortunately, this extraordinary Rolls-Royce did not secure a medal in this year’s Frua class. The top prize went to a 1973 Momo Mirage Frua Coupe, with a 1953 Nardi 750 Frua Barchetta and a 1946 Fiat 1100 C Frua Barchetta taking second and third places, respectively. However, the Phantom VI’s unique design and storied history overwhelmingly captured the hearts of many attendees, including our editorial team.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
