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 a country's resources. Therefore, my opinion may not be the best judge of an eight-figure automobile. Nevertheless, the Rolls-Royce Droptail has caught my attention.

During Monterey Car Week, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Droptail, potentially surpassing its own record for the world's priciest new car. Previously, this title was held by the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, which made its debut at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este last year. The Boat Tail's official cost was never disclosed, as it was a custom project with only three coachbuilt cars created. Rumor has it that notable customers, such as Jay-Z and Beyonce, were among the buyers. The Boat Tail was speculated to have commanded $28 million. Although the exact cost of the new Droptail has not been revealed by Rolls-Royce, Autocar reports that it is even more expensive than the Boat Tail.

Rolls-Royce has been contacted for confirmation on pricing, and The Drive will update this story once more information becomes available.

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

Undeniably, the Droptail is a stunning car, but is it worth $30 million? The automaker claims that the long hood, custom rear deck, and low-slung shoulder line pay homage to roadsters from the 1920s. The first Droptail to be manufactured, named "La Rose Noire," features a striking 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 incorporate some unique elements. The center armrest is a new addition, and the dashboard trim is adorned with a red-and-black geometric pattern reminiscent of the opening credits of Casino Royale. The same motif covers the entire rear deck of the Droptail. To complete the luxurious experience, the Droptail comes with a custom Audemars Piguet watch that fits into the dashboard, serving as the car's clock. Rolls-Royce even conducted crash tests to ensure the watch remains secure in the event of an accident.

Despite its two-door configuration, the Droptail does not share its platform with the new electric Rolls-Royce Spectre. Instead, 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 slightly lower at 620 lb-ft, 44 lb-ft less than the Phantom.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an extraordinary testament to craftsmanship, almost entirely handcrafted and unlike anything else on the road. One could argue whether it is worth $30 million or more, especially when competing against the exquisite vintage vehicles at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the ultra-wealthy, where possessions are abundant, exclusivity reigns supreme. Being one of only four individuals in the world to own this exquisite Rolls-Royce is what makes the Droptail truly valuable. At the very least, it is more deserving of its price tag than the charred remains of a once-glorious Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff