ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM (2003)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 37 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
95%
Total Tests (2024)
37
Avg Mileage
86,532 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 13 points above the national average of 82%.
At 21 years old, 95% of ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOMs from 2003 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 37 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 86,532 miles.
How does the 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM has 86,532 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 155,400 miles for a 21-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 2012 model has the lowest at 90%. The 2003 sits between the two at 95%.
How much does a 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 84% | 49 | 11,310 mi |
| 2020 | 100% | 147 | 16,403 mi |
| 2019 | 96% | 148 | 13,532 mi |
| 2018 | 100% | 253 | 20,728 mi |
| 2016 | 98% | 128 | 16,214 mi |
| 2015 | 100% | 92 | 30,827 mi |
| 2014 | 99% | 168 | 27,989 mi |
| 2013 | 100% | 124 | 25,841 mi |
| 2012 | 90% | 69 | 32,507 mi |
| 2011 | 100% | 115 | 33,107 mi |
| 2010 | 100% | 85 | 38,516 mi |
| 2009 | 100% | 61 | 52,458 mi |
| 2008 | 95% | 176 | 46,526 mi |
| 2007 | 97% | 168 | 62,311 mi |
| 2006 | 99% | 140 | 60,555 mi |
| 2005 | 97% | 148 | 86,046 mi |
| 2004 | 92% | 106 | 88,129 mi |
| 2003 | 95% | 37 | 86,532 mi |
Checking a specific ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM
The 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM is a performance with a 6749cc petrol engine. 37 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 3% of all 2003 cars for reliability.
With an average of 86,532 miles at 21 years old, ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM Fuel Costs
The 6749cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 95% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM Reliability Trend
The ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 0 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM
At 21 years old, the ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 100%. Note: with only 37 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2003 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM
The ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- BENTLEY ARNAGE (2001) 92% pass rate (-3%) from 579 tests