Rolls-Royce Droptail: The Pinnacle of Luxury

author: FutureCar Staff    

This may come as a surprise, but I am not the target audience for what is likely the most expensive new car in the world. I do not possess great wealth or control over a country's resources. Therefore, my perspective may not be suited for evaluating an eight-figure automobile like the Rolls-Royce Droptail.

During Monterey Car Week, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Droptail, potentially surpassing its own record for the world's most expensive new car. The previous record was held by the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, which made its debut at last year's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. As a bespoke project, the Boat Tail's official cost was never disclosed, but it was rumored to be $28 million. However, the new Droptail is reported to be even more expensive than its predecessor.

The Drive has reached out to Rolls-Royce for confirmation on the pricing and will update the story accordingly.

Similar to the Boat Tail, the Droptail is a coachbuilt design that shares little resemblance with other Rolls-Royce vehicles. Only four Droptails will be produced, each customized to the owner's preferences. The design was a collaborative effort between Rolls-Royce and the four customers.

The Droptail showcases a stunning aesthetic, but is it truly worth $30 million? According to the automaker, the long hood, custom rear deck, and low-slung shoulder line pay tribute to roadsters from the 1920s. The first Droptail, named "La Rose Noire," features a red-and-black color scheme inspired by the Black Baccara flower.

While the Droptail's cabin bears resemblance to modern Rolls-Royce interiors, it boasts unique touches. The center armrest is new, and the dashboard trim is adorned with a red/black geometric pattern reminiscent of the opening credits of Casino Royale. The rear deck of the Droptail also features the same motif. Additionally, the Droptail comes with a bespoke Audemars Piguet watch integrated into the dashboard, serving as the car's clock. The design underwent crash testing to ensure the watch's safety in the event of an accident.

Unlike the new electric Rolls-Royce Spectre, the Droptail is not based on a two-door design. La Rose Noire is equipped with a familiar 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 593 horsepower, surpassing the Phantom by 30 horsepower. However, the torque is rated at 620 lb-ft, which is 44 lb-ft less than the Phantom.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an impressive masterpiece, crafted mostly by hand and distinguishable from any other vehicle on the road. Some may argue that it is not worth $30 million or more, especially when compared to the exquisite vintage cars showcased at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the ultra-wealthy, exclusivity reigns supreme. The rarity of being one of only four individuals to own this exquisite Rolls-Royce is what adds value to the Droptail. At the very least, it is more deserving of its price tag than the charred remains of a once magnificent Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff