Rolls-Royce Phantom

The story

BMW bought the Rolls-Royce name and started again with a new factory and a new car. The Phantom is nearly six metres long and weighs two and a half tonnes, yet glides along in near silence. The first one was handed over just after midnight on New Year's Day 2003.

Inside

The rear doors are hinged at the back and close at the touch of a button. Each one hides a full-size umbrella. There is no rev counter, just a dial showing how much power is left in reserve.

In period colours

Tap a colour to respray the drawing.

Meanwhile, in 2003

London's congestion charge began, England won the Rugby World Cup and Concorde retired.

Best-selling single of 2003: Where Is the Love? by The Black Eyed Peas

Before you buy a 2000s car

• Check the service history, especially for timing belts, clutches and cambelts where fitted.
• Electronics, air conditioning and suspension repairs can be expensive.
• Many parts are still made, but some low-volume models rely on specialists.

General notes, not specific to this model. Check the model's own history before buying.

Rivals of its day

Picked automatically: cars on sale at the same time with similar size, speed and price.

See the real thing

These open in a new tab: the car on Wikimedia Commons, the interior and the badge as Google image searches.