Rolls-Royce angled radiators

The Rolls-Royce radiator grille is one of the most recognisable features of any car in history. Its solemn, upright form is emblematic of the qualities of the cars themselves: sober, reserved and dignified, not to mention a little old-fashioned. Of course, there have been occasions where others have taken it upon themselves to alter the radiator, for better or worse, to suit their own tastes. The practice was most popular in the 1930s as the streamlining craze took over car design and stylists fitted Rolls-Royces with deeply raked radiators to match their rakish coachwork.
Tom Clarke, writing in the latest issue of The Automobile, has delved into the disparate histories of some of these cars, focussing on the dramatic Jonckheere-bodied 'round door' Phantom. Many will be aware of this car, which, now fully restored, has been making the rounds of the concours circuit, but few will be aware of its history, which is wrapped in half-truths and uncertainties. Read the full story, the fruits of many years of research, in the February issue, which is out now. Check the large gallery of this fab at Loveispeed.nl