Used Rolls-Royce Phantom Saloon 2003 - 2018 review

At almost six metres long, the Rolls-Royce Phantom cuts an imposing figure on the road. It weighs 2.5 tonnes, but the air-sprung suspension allows for unflustered and precise cornering - better than any previous Rolls. Under the bonnet is a 453bhp, BMW-sourced 6.75-litre engine, which will propel you from 0-60mph in 6sec.

This Rolls still sets the benchmark for comfort inside the cabin. You sit at around the same height as in a 4x4, and under a flap is a simplified version of BMW's iDrive multi-control system.

There's plenty of space and almost zero road noise, but you do hear some wind noise at speed. Mind you, that's only because you can't hear the mechanical components at all inside the cabin and the ride is fantastically smooth.

Even the rear doors are exceptional - rearward-opening coach doors, which allow occupants to get in and out with dignity. There's also an array of passive and active safety systems, and, er, a drinks cabinet in the back.

People who commit themselves to a Rolls-Royce Phantom are unlikely to worry about cash flow. Residuals are pretty good, but only in percentage terms. After three years, the car will still be worth 65% of its original price, but that's still a lot of cash to lose.

Running costs are astronomical, too. You can expect no more than 14mpg on an average run. A heavy right foot will yield 7.6mpg. So here's the deal. It's a 100-litre tank. Fill it up. Drive 400 miles. Visit petrol station.

It'll be tough on the planet, too. It'll emit 385 grammes of carbon dioxide per kilometre, so it's no surprise that it's in the top tax band for vehicle excise duty.

There's only one model available, and that rather negates any real conundrums over trim levels and engine sizes when you are considering buying a Phantom. However, you don't just buy a Phantom, you buy into a Phantom.

These Rolls-Royces are built bespoke to the original customer's every quirk and demand. Colour choices, both inside and out, and equipment levels have been carefully tailored to suit the first owner's needs, so if you're in the market for a used Phantom, yet expect it to fulfil your own list of specifications, you may have to compromise a little.

There's little likelihood that any two cars left the factory in exactly the same specification, never mind one that will suit you.

If preserving residual value is right up on your list of priorities, then any aftermarket 'bling' is best avoided. It's vulgar and unnecessary, you see.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here