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. However, the Rolls-Royce Droptail has caught my attention with its unique design.

Rolls-Royce recently unveiled the Droptail during Monterey Car Week, most likely setting a new record for the world's priciest 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. The Boat Tail was a bespoke project, with only three custom-built cars made for specific customers, including Jay-Z and Beyonce. Although the official cost of the Boat Tail was never disclosed, it was rumored to be around $28 million. Autocar reports that the new Droptail is even more expensive than its predecessor.

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

Similar to the Boat Tail, the Droptail is a coachbuilt design that shares very little with other Rolls-Royce models. Only four Droptails will be produced, each tailored to the preferences of its owner. The design of the car was a collaborative effort between Rolls-Royce and the four customers.

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

The cabin of the Droptail shares similarities with other modern Rolls-Royce models but also includes unique elements. 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 is also covered in the same motif. To add to its exclusivity, the Droptail comes with a bespoke Audemars Piguet watch that serves as the car's clock and has undergone crash testing to ensure its safety in case of an accident.

Unlike the new electric Rolls-Royce Spectre, the Droptail is not based on the same platform. La Rose Noire is equipped with a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 593 horsepower, slightly more than the Phantom. However, its torque is rated at 620 lb-ft, which is 44 lb-ft less than the Phantom.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an impressive and handcrafted statement that stands out from other cars on the road. While some may argue that it is not worth its hefty price tag, its exclusivity is what makes it valuable in the world of the ultra-rich. Being one of only four individuals to own this exquisite Rolls-Royce adds to its allure. In comparison, the burnt remains of a Ferrari seem far less deserving of their price tag.

FutureCar Staff