Is a £50,000 2007 Rolls-Royce Phantom the Ultimate Luxury – or Does the £50,000 Skoda Superb Represent Better Value?
In this head-to-head showdown, Mat Watson evaluates whether a brand-new, top-spec Škoda Superb Laurin & Klement or a mint-condition 2007 Rolls‑Royce Phantom (used) offers the superior ownership experience and value for money
Design & Luxury Appeal
Rolls-Royce Phantom (2007)
- Radiates timeless elegance with a solid-metal grille, imposing coach‑style rear‑hinged doors, and heavy, tactile finishes carwow.co.uk.
- A status symbol that exudes traditional luxury and impeccable craft.
Skoda Superb L&K (New)
- Offers understated sophistication: refined lines, chrome accents, and a luxury-rich cabin in a family-sized car
- Retains practicality and modern design, fitting seamlessly into everyday contexts.
Practicality & Running Costs
Škoda Superb
- A spacious and efficient mid-size car engineered for everyday life.
- Excellent reliability, lower running and maintenance costs, and family-friendly features. Its interior includes clever touches and high comfort levels Parker's+4Wikipedia+4DriveDuel UK+4.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
- Legendary in comfort — with plush seating, advanced features like heated/massage seats, and extensive privacy features CarDekho.
- However, being a decade-old ultra-luxury vehicle, ownership involves significantly higher upkeep, specialized service, and potential maintenance surprises.
Value Over Time
2007 Rolls-Royce Phantom Value
- Used values range between approximately £30,000 and £57,000, depending on condition and variant CarWale+3Parker's+3Parker's+3.
- KBB indicates original MSRP was over $385,500, with average retail values over $100,000; a £50K purchase represents a steep depreciation jdpower.com.
Škoda Superb (New)
- A new top-line model keeps full warranty, modern electronics, and minimal depreciation in early years.
- Offers transparent pricing and lower long-term running costs.
Verdict: What Offers the Best Value?
Rolls-Royce Phantom (2007)
- If your priority is classic opulence, brand prestige, and the emotional thrill of ownership, then this Phantom delivers unmatched flair.
- But it comes with significant running costs, uncertain maintenance reliability, and limited practicality for daily use.
Škoda Superb L&K (New)
- If you're looking for intelligent spending, comfort, space, and reliability, the Superb is the smarter pick.
- It balances luxury touches with sensible ownership—ideal for families or regular drivers who want value without compromise.
** Final Thought:**
The Mystique and grandeur of a Rolls-Royce Phantom are undeniable—but value-wise, the Škoda Superb offers much more in terms of modern usability, cost-efficiency, and peace of mind. For everyday luxury that delivers more car for your pound, the Superb comes out on top.