In the world of early American Rolls-Royces, few models are as rare—or as cleverly conceived—as the “Playboy” Roadster. Built during a transitional period for Rolls-Royce of America, the Playboy wasn’t a factory offering in the traditional sense. Rather, it was a brilliant reuse strategy: with an overstock of formal limousines on hand, the company began removing the heavy, outdated bodies from their still-excellent Phantom I chassis and commissioning fresh, sporting roadster coachwork from the prestigious Brewster & Co.

The result was the “Playboy,” a sleek two-seat open car designed for younger, style-conscious drivers who wanted the prestige of a Rolls-Royce without the formality. Named long before the advent of the famous magazine, the Playboy evoked the image of a 1920s gentleman adventurer—wealthy, daring, and slightly unconventional. Only 13 examples are believed to have been built on the Phantom I chassis, making it one of the rarest American-bodied Rolls-Royces of the era.

While the Playboy Roadster was simpler than other Brewster bodies—lacking some of the luxuries of the limousine it replaced, including even a rumble seat door—its clean lines and lighter weight made it a favorite among collectors and concours judges alike. Power came from a 468 cubic-inch overhead-valve inline six-cylinder engine, producing 40–50 horsepower and paired with a three-speed manual transmission and electric overdrive. Four-wheel servo-assisted brakes and a cantilever spring rear suspension provided remarkably advanced road manners for the time, all atop a stately 146.5-inch wheelbase.

This particular Playboy Roadster has enjoyed a decorated show career, earning First Place awards at the Burn Prevention Concours in Bethlehem, Radnor Hunt Concours, the Classic Car Club of America meet in Mount Olive, and the Antique Automobile Club of America event in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Its elegant simplicity, rarity, and originality make it an enduring favorite on the show field.

In February 2024, the car was acquired by Tom Maoli, adding yet another rare and historically significant American-bodied Rolls-Royce to his collection. As a survivor of Rolls-Royce of America’s most creative reimagining efforts, this Playboy Roadster stands not just as a beautiful machine—but as a symbol of reinvention, elegance, and timeless design.