Rolls-Royce Droptail: The Pinnacle of Luxury

author: FutureCar Staff    

It 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 don't have vast wealth or control over a country's resources. So, my humble opinion may not be well-suited to judge an eight-figure automobile. However, the Rolls-Royce Droptail has certainly caught my attention.

During Monterey Car Week, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Droptail, which is likely to break its own record for the world's priciest new car. The previous record was held by the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, which debuted at last year's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The Boat Tail's official cost was never disclosed, as only three custom-built cars were made for specific customers. It was rumored to have commanded $28 million. While the exact cost of the Droptail has not been revealed, Autocar reports that it is even more expensive than the Boat Tail.

The Drive has reached out to Rolls-Royce for confirmation on pricing and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Similar to the Boat Tail, the Droptail is a coachbuilt design that shares little resemblance to other Rolls-Royce models. Only four Droptails will be produced, each one tailored to the preferences of its owner. The design was a collaboration between Rolls-Royce and the four customers, resulting in a truly bespoke creation.

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 of the four Droptails, named "La Rose Noire," features a red-and-black color scheme inspired by the Black Baccara flower.

The cabin of the Droptail will be familiar to those who have seen modern Rolls-Royce models, but it does have 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 same motif covers the entire rear deck of the car. To complete the luxury experience, the Droptail comes with a bespoke Audemars Piguet watch that fits into the dashboard, serving as the car's clock. The design had to undergo crash testing to ensure the watch would not become a projectile in case of an accident.

Contrary to its two-door shape, the Droptail is not based on the new electric Rolls-Royce Spectre. Instead, La Rose Noire is equipped with a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 593 horsepower, 30 more than the Phantom. However, it has slightly less torque, rated at 620 lb-ft compared to the Phantom's 664 lb-ft.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an impressive creation, crafted mostly by hand and unlike anything else on the road. Some may argue that it is not worth $30 million or more, especially when compared to the stunning vintage cars at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the ultra-rich, exclusivity is highly valued. Being one of only four people in the world to own this beautiful Rolls-Royce is what makes the Droptail so valuable. At the very least, it is likely more deserving of its price tag than the remains of a burnt Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff