Motor Authority - blog Category: Phantom Drophead Coupe

German tuner Hamann is known for its work with a number of brands, including Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW and Fiat, but now the company has turned its attention to an unlikely candidate for tuning work - the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

The company is offering a number of upgrades for both the Phantom and the Phantom Drophead Coupe, but the power upgrades are likely the only one you would really want. The Phantom already develops close to 460hp (343kW) from its 6.75L engine, but Hamann can up this to a less stately figure of 535hp (399kW). Similarly, torque can be increased from the standard Phantom's 531lb-ft (720Nm) to a sportier 622lb-ft (834Nm),... German tuner Hamann is known for its work with a number of brands, including Porsche, Mercedes Benz, BMW and Fiat, but now the company has turned its attention to an unlikely candidate for tuning work - the Rolls-Royce Phantom. The company is offering a number of upgrades for both the Phantom and the Phantom Drophead Coupe, but the power upgrades are likely the only one you would really want. The Phantom already develops close to 460hp (343kW) from its 6.75L engine, but Hamann can up this to a less stately figure of 535hp (399kW). Similarly, torque can be increased from the standard Phantom's 531lb-ft (720Nm) to a sportier 622lb-ft (834Nm), and the result of this engine work is a new top speed of close to 190mph. While the merits of upping the horsepower figures for a car that’s definitely more focused on the passengers in the back rather than the driver up the front may appear dubious, Hamann figures that if certain customers want more power, they'll also want a sportier look. For this, the German tuner is offering a couple of different sets of wheel packages, including a black set and an aluminum multispoke set. Both wheel options come in a massive 23in setting, beating out the standard Phantom's 21in set. Finally, to cap off the madness, Hamann will also throw in a sports steering wheel up front, but thankfully the rest of the interior remains fairly standard. Pricing hasn't yet been announced, but expect it to be horribly expensive in line with the asking price of the Phantom.Hamann Rolls-Royce Phantom and Phantom Drophead Coupe Read More

Named for a Titan in Greek mythology, the Pininfarina-etched Hyperion from 2008 was designed to evoke memories of cars from the 1930s with its long majestic bonnet, short rear overhang and low rooflines. Based on the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe, the changes needed to create the Hyperion included the removal of the rear seats and a shift in driving position, which is now 400mm further back in the Hyperion than in the Drophead.

If this sounds appealing to you, the bespoke one-off vehicle is actually up for sale on luxury goods website Jameslist, but before you get too excited not that pricing will set you back a cool €4,500,000. For that... Named for a Titan in Greek mythology, the Pininfarina-etched Hyperion from 2008 was designed to evoke memories of cars from the 1930s with its long majestic bonnet, short rear overhang and low rooflines. Based on the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe, the changes needed to create the Hyperion included the removal of the rear seats and a shift in driving position, which is now 400mm further back in the Hyperion than in the Drophead. If this sounds appealing to you, the bespoke one-off vehicle is actually up for sale on luxury goods website Jameslist, but before you get too excited not that pricing will set you back a cool €4,500,000. For that kind of money, however, you’re not just buying a car, you’re actually buying a piece of history, as well as a unique Girard-Perregaux wristwatch. The Hyperion was designed by the Special Projects division of Pininfarina, which also created the one-off Ferrari P4/5 a couple of years ago for James Glickenhaus. The Hyperion was designed for Rolls-Royce collector Roland Hall, who made specific requests for the cars appearance and utility - including two compartments for small items such as hunting rifles, located in front of the windscreen. The standard Drophead coupe features a 6.75L V12 engine developing a peak output of 453hp (338kW) and 531lb-ft (720Nm) of torque, which is enough for an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and a 0-60mph sprint of just 5.6 seconds. No major mechanical changes have been installed for the Hyperion. Delivery is scheduled for September.Rolls Royce 'Hyperion' Drophead Pebble Beach Read More

With all the doom and gloom surrounding the auto industry and the economy in general, it is interesting to see that Rolls-Royce, the manufacturer of some of the most lavish cars on the planet, is enjoying record sales. Last year, the carmaker from Goodwood, UK, sold a total of 1,212 cars, its fifth straight year of growth and its highest level of sales in 18 years.

This year is set to be even bigger for Rolls-Royce as the company is not only planning a brand new model but it is also updating its Phantom range. For 2009, the Phantom picks up a new bumper that is designed to match the one on the Phantom Drophead and Phantom Coupe. The more... With all the doom and gloom surrounding the auto industry and the economy in general, it is interesting to see that Rolls-Royce, the manufacturer of some of the most lavish cars on the planet, is enjoying record sales. Last year, the carmaker from Goodwood, UK, sold a total of 1,212 cars, its fifth straight year of growth and its highest level of sales in 18 years. This year is set to be even bigger for Rolls-Royce as the company is not only planning a brand new model but it is also updating its Phantom range. For 2009, the Phantom picks up a new bumper that is designed to match the one on the Phantom Drophead and Phantom Coupe. The more streamlined bumper features a shallower grille than the previous version and is finished in stainless steel. Other new exterior features include LED door handle illumination and the fitting of 21in cast aluminum wheels as standard. Two further wheel options exist, both manufactured in forged alloy and available in either painted or part polished finishes. Inside, rear passengers will benefit from a new RCA component input that provides auxiliary audio and visual connectivity to 12in monitors mounted within the picnic tables. Further features include new front and rear door cappings with integrated grab handles and new bi-directional double reading lights in the C-pillar. Designers have also repositioned the rear climate control, volume control and electric window switches into a wood veneer panel in the door. Production of the 2009 model will start in the third quarter, a year before the all-new Rolls-Royce model, codenamed RR4, will starting rolling out of the Goodwood factory.2009 Rolls Royce Phantom Range2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom facelift Read More

The automotive industry's story in 2008 has become a familiar one: high hopes dashed on the rocks of a stormy economy. But not all brands and carmakers fared poorly despite the general malaise - including some, like Rolls Royce, that actually set new records.

Total sales for Rolls Royce cars were up 20% in 2008, an increase of just 202 cars. But at Rolls Royce's typical retail prices, that's about $60 million in additional revenue, all based around a core of Phantom models including the Drophead, Extended Wheelbase and Coupe.

As usual, North America remained the largest single market for Rolls Royce cars, accounting for 38% of the total.... The automotive industry's story in 2008 has become a familiar one: high hopes dashed on the rocks of a stormy economy. But not all brands and carmakers fared poorly despite the general malaise - including some, like Rolls Royce, that actually set new records. Total sales for Rolls Royce cars were up 20% in 2008, an increase of just 202 cars. But at Rolls Royce's typical retail prices, that's about $60 million in additional revenue, all based around a core of Phantom models including the Drophead, Extended Wheelbase and Coupe. As usual, North America remained the largest single market for Rolls Royce cars, accounting for 38% of the total. Northern Europe and the Middle East were the key growth sectors, however, rising 95% and 48%, respectively. The upcoming RR4 'Baby Rolls' sedan is expected to push the Goodwood company's sales sheet to even greater volumes thanks to its slighly lower positioning and pricing. Already the company has taken preparations for the car's expected volume, increasing its facilities to accommodate the 800+ unit annual production rise. Sharing some basic elements with the BMW 7-series, the RR4 will nonetheless feature a completely unique appearance and drivetrain. The car is expected to make its retail launch in 2010. For more on the upcoming RR4, read our previous stories.Rolls Royce 'Hyperion' Drophead Pebble Beach Read More

With such an opulent base as a Rolls Royce to begin with, many modification houses - even Rolls Royce's own Bespoke program - end up with creations so extravagant they are nearly obscene. Project Kahn has dodged that bullet with the Phantom Drophead Coupe, however, keeping to the minimalist styling cues of cars like its previous Bentley Continental GTC Black.

Monochromatic paint jobs mated to aggressive but not precisely garish wheels give the Project Kahn Drophead Coupe unique look without going overboard. Central to the new car's look are the Silver Mist wheels. At 9.5in wide and 22in in diameter, they offer both 'bling' and serious... With such an opulent base as a Rolls Royce to begin with, many modification houses - even Rolls Royce's own Bespoke program - end up with creations so extravagant they are nearly obscene. Project Kahn has dodged that bullet with the Phantom Drophead Coupe, however, keeping to the minimalist styling cues of cars like its previous Bentley Continental GTC Black. Monochromatic paint jobs mated to aggressive but not precisely garish wheels give the Project Kahn Drophead Coupe unique look without going overboard. Central to the new car's look are the Silver Mist wheels. At 9.5in wide and 22in in diameter, they offer both 'bling' and serious road-holding capability - a must when dealing with a car as large and powerful as the Drophead. To keep the Rolls Royce look about them, however, they are designed to accommodate the original wheels' center caps. Other available custom touches include an interior package featuring a range of materials and finishes including carbon fiber or gloss piano black steering wheels, Elmwood veneer on the dashboard, embossed headrests and lambs wool rugs. Starting price for the Project Kahn Drophead is a considerable £316,000 ($470,000), or about a $50,000 premium over a new example.Project Kahn Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe Read More

Not content with the boundless luxury exuded by the standard Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, the sole dealer of the bespoke cars in Abu Dhabi has taken delivery of a unique version decked in a gold metallic paint scheme and finished off with a gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. Almost certainly built to the exacting specifications of one of the country’s numerous wealthy individuals, the Drophead Coupe is also fitted with a stainless steel bonnet, teak decking and twin coachlines.

The Middle East has been a major driver of the ‘Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program’ and currently claims the highest volume of requests... Not content with the boundless luxury exuded by the standard Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe, the sole dealer of the bespoke cars in Abu Dhabi has taken delivery of a unique version decked in a gold metallic paint scheme and finished off with a gold-plated Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament. Almost certainly built to the exacting specifications of one of the country’s numerous wealthy individuals, the Drophead Coupe is also fitted with a stainless steel bonnet, teak decking and twin coachlines. The Middle East has been a major driver of the ‘Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program’ and currently claims the highest volume of requests for the custom cars. The program is a special service that allows customers to change virtually every tactile facet of the car, whether it is a thicker steering wheel or a completely customized cabin. Working in a closed off area of the Goodwood assembly line, the Bespoke team even go so far as to develop their own paints, materials and mechanical modifications. Surprisingly, the owner has decided to leave the wheels of the Drophead Coupe unchanged. The mechanical package has also been left untouched, meaning power comes from the familiar 6.75L V12 engine. Peak output stands at 453hp (338kW) and 530lb-ft (720Nm) of torque. And the price? If you have to ask...Gold Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe in Abu Dhabi Read More