A 2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom sedan formerly owned by Shaquille O’Neal is now listed for sale on Bring a Trailer. The silver example is one of three Rolls-Royces the former NBA star reportedly purchased at once after a dealership salesman questioned whether he could afford the cars.
According to O’Neal’s account, he visited a Rolls-Royce dealership during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers wearing casual clothing. After repeatedly dismissing the prices of several cars, he was challenged by the salesman. O’Neal responded by buying three Rolls-Royces on the spot.
This Phantom is from the debut model year of the Phantom VII, the first generation introduced under BMW ownership. Its imposing proportions were a defining feature, with the sedan reportedly measuring longer than a Ford Excursion when it launched.
The car is powered by a 6.75-liter V-12 derived from the engine used in the BMW 750. It produces 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, with the engine sending power through a six-speed automatic transmission.
The Phantom’s equipment includes rear-hinged coach doors with integrated umbrellas, self-righting Rolls-Royce center caps and a retractable Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. Inside, it features walnut trim, leather upholstery, lambswool carpets, rear picnic tables and six-zone climate control.
O’Neal has said he drove his three Rolls-Royces very little. This example has accumulated approximately 45,000 miles, despite its former owner’s claim. The Bring a Trailer auction is scheduled to end on November 3.
Sources: Car and Driver.