1982 Phillips Berlina

A Modern Classic with 1930s Elegance

The 1982 Phillips Berlina is a rare and distinctive neo-classic luxury automobile that blends the elegance of 1930s design with the performance and reliability of modern engineering. Built in limited numbers, this handcrafted car was designed to capture the spirit of the pre-war grand touring automobiles while offering the conveniences of a contemporary vehicle.

The Vision Behind the Berlina

The Phillips Berlina was the brainchild of Charles W. Phillips, an American automobile designer who sought to create a car that evoked the grandeur of classic luxury vehicles like the Duesenberg, Auburn, and Mercedes-Benz 540K. Unlike the original classics, however, the Berlina was based on modern mechanical underpinnings, making it far more reliable and drivable than its vintage inspirations.

Production of the Phillips Berlina began in the early 1980s, with each car custom-built in Pompano Beach, Florida. Due to its exclusivity and handcrafted nature, only a small number were ever produced, making it a rare and highly collectible automobile today.

Design & Styling

The 1982 Phillips Berlina featured a long, sweeping body with dramatic Art Deco influences. Its design elements paid homage to the luxurious automobiles of the 1930s, including:

• A long, sloping hood with exposed side exhaust pipes, reminiscent of pre-war grand tourers.
• Large chrome headlights and fender-mounted spare tires, classic design hallmarks.
• A stretched wheelbase, adding to its regal presence.
• Handcrafted interiors with fine leather, woodgrain trim, and premium detailing.

Despite its vintage aesthetics, the Berlina offered modern creature comforts such as power windows, air conditioning, and advanced suspension systems, making it a perfect blend of past and present.

Performance & Engineering

Unlike the original 1930s classics that inspired it, the Phillips Berlina was based on the Pontiac Firebird Trans Am chassis, ensuring it had the power and handling of a modern muscle car. Under the hood, it featured:

• A 5.0L (305 cubic inch) V8 engine, providing smooth yet powerful acceleration.
• A GM automatic transmission, making it effortless to drive.
• Power steering and disc brakes, giving it a more refined and controlled driving experience.

This combination of classic looks with modern performance allowed owners to enjoy the Berlina as both a showpiece and a functional, road-worthy vehicle.

Exclusivity & Legacy

With only a handful of Phillips Berlinas ever built, these cars remain a rare sight and a prized possession among collectors. Their unique blend of classic and contemporary design makes them highly sought-after in the world of neo-classic automobiles.

The 1982 Phillips Berlina is more than just a car—it is a rolling piece of art, a testament to timeless automotive design, and a celebration of an era when cars were as much about style as they were about performance.

Admire the 1982 Phillips Berlina—a handcrafted masterpiece that bridges the gap between the Golden Age of motoring and modern luxury.