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 vast wealth or 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 priciest new car. The previous record was held by the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, which made its debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este last year. As a bespoke project, only three coachbuilt cars were created to meet the exact specifications of customers, including Jay-Z and Beyonce. While the official cost of the Boat Tail was never disclosed, it was rumored to command $28 million. According to Autocar, 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 little resemblance to other Rolls-Royce models. Only four units will be produced, each uniquely tailored to the preferences of its owner. The design of the Droptail was a collaborative effort between Rolls-Royce and its four customers.

The Droptail is undeniably beautiful, 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 unit, 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 some unique elements. The center armrest is a new addition, 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. As a special touch, the Droptail comes with a bespoke Audemars Piguet watch that fits into the dashboard and serves as the car's clock. Rolls-Royce even conducted crash tests to ensure the watch remains secure in the event of an accident.

Contrary to its two-door shape, the Droptail is not based on the electric Rolls-Royce Spectre. Instead, "La Rose Noire" is equipped with a familiar 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 593 horsepower, 30 more than the Phantom. However, the torque is slightly lower at 620 lb-ft, 44 lb-ft less than the Phantom.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an impressive creation, crafted almost entirely by hand and unlike anything else on the road. Some may argue that it is not worth $30 million, especially when compared to the stunning vintage cars showcased at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the super-rich, where exclusivity reigns supreme, being one of only four individuals to own this exquisite Rolls-Royce adds significant value to the Droptail. At the very least, it is arguably more deserving of its price tag than the charred remains of a Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff