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 am not wealthy, nor do I have any control over a country's resources. Therefore, my opinion may not be qualified to judge an eight-figure automobile, such as the Rolls-Royce Droptail.

During Monterey Car Week, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Droptail, which is expected to break the 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. The official cost of the Boat Tail was never disclosed, as only three custom-built cars were made according to specific customer requirements. It was rumored to be priced at $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.

Rolls-Royce has been contacted for pricing confirmation, and this story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Like its predecessor, the Droptail is a unique design that shares little resemblance to other Rolls-Royce models. Only four Droptails will be produced, each one tailored to the individual preferences of its owner. The design was a collaborative effort between Rolls-Royce and the four customers.

The Droptail is undeniably a beautiful car, but is it worth $30 million? According to the automaker, the 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 some 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 can be found on the entire rear deck of the Droptail. Additionally, 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 appearance, 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, slightly more than the Phantom. 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 creation, meticulously crafted by hand and unlike anything else on the road. Its value, which exceeds $30 million, may be debatable, especially when compared to the stunning vintage cars showcased at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the ultra-wealthy, where possessions are abundant, exclusivity is highly prized. Being one of only four people in the world to own this exquisite Rolls-Royce is what makes the Droptail so valuable. At the very least, it is arguably more deserving of its price tag than the remnants of a burned Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff