Coachwork by Brewster

Engine - 7,668 cubic centimeter Overhead Valve inline-six
Transmission - 4-speed
Horsepower - 120 bhp
Production - 9 Henley Roadsters produced on the Phantom II Chassis

“The best car in the world”

The history of Rolls Royce is not one usually associated with the American automobile, yet for a period of time from 1921 through the early 1930s, not only were Rolls Royce automobiles sought out by the American market, they were even produced in the United States. After WWI Rolls Royce management decided to build a plant in the United States to meet the high demand for the Silver Ghost chassis in an effort to avoid the high import duties on automobiles from overseas. The Factory was initially staffed with 53 employees from England, and equipment was imported as well. Quickly production increased and demand grew further. The first American examples were identical to their English counterparts, minus few differences like drum headlights. Production of American Rolls Royces continued through 1930, seeing both the Ghost and Phantom I chassis built in the States. Upwards of 300 units were being produced each year, but full chassis production ended in 1931 due to the effects of the Great Depression.

The last and most advanced version of the 40/50 Chassis, the Phantom II, would not be fully produced in the States. Still, demand among the discerning American motorist continued, so Rolls Royce produced a limited run of the Phantom II chassis, specially designated AMS and AJS. Just 116 units reached final production of the 200 initially ordered. All of the US-market Phantom IIs were equipped with differences for the American market including left-hand drive configuration, center-shift transmission controls, modified suspension, and upgraded braking to meet American regulations. These American improvements proved so successful that many were carried over to the standard Phantom II Chassis. Upon arrival of the AMS and AJS chassis in the States, they received coachwork by Brewster. With only 9 produced, the Henley Roadster is considered the most desirable of all body styles, featuring a raked cowl line and vee’d windshield, flared fenders, and most noted, a unique incorporated side door to access the rear seat.

Chassis 217AMS wearing this Henley body was delivered new to Svante M. Swenson in February of 1934 after a lengthy wait after ordering. Swenson would own many fine automobiles over his time, and no less than two Phantom IIs known today. In 1938 the Henley seen here was acquired by Dr. Frederick G. Keys of Cambridge, Mass. Before taking delivery, Keys had the Henley body mounted to chassis 224AJS, thus marking an in-period chassis upgrade. Keys would go on to attend the first Rolls Royce Owners Club meet in 1952. Dr. Keys is inarguably the most noted name associated with this Henley Roadster, retaining the car until 1971.