Rolls-Royce Droptail: The Pinnacle of Luxury Cars

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 on the Rolls-Royce Droptail, an eight-figure automobile, may not be fully qualified.

During Monterey Car Week, Rolls-Royce unveiled the Droptail, which is expected to break its own record for the world's most expensive new car. The previous record was held by the Rolls-Royce Boat Tail, introduced at last year's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The Boat Tail's official cost was never disclosed, as it was a custom project with only three cars built to individual specifications. Rumored owners included Jay-Z and Beyonce. The Boat Tail was believed to have commanded $28 million, but the new Droptail is reported to be even more expensive.

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 unique design that shares little resemblance to other Rolls-Royce models. Only four Droptails will be produced, each customized to the owner's preferences. The design was a collaboration between Rolls-Royce and the four customers.

The Droptail features a stunning appearance, 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 Droptail, named "La Rose Noire," showcases a red-and-black color scheme inspired by the Black Baccara flower.

The cabin of the Droptail bears similarities to other modern Rolls-Royce models but 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 also features the same motif. Additionally, the Droptail comes with a custom Audemars Piguet watch that serves as the car's clock, which underwent crash testing to ensure it remains secure in the event of an accident.

Contrary to its two-door design, the Droptail is not based on the electric Rolls-Royce Spectre. Instead, "La Rose Noire" is equipped with a 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 593 horsepower, surpassing the Phantom by 30 horsepower. However, the torque rating is slightly lower, at 620 lb-ft compared to the Phantom's 664 lb-ft.

The Rolls-Royce Droptail is an impressive and unique vehicle, crafted predominantly 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 showcased at Pebble Beach. However, in the world of the super-rich, where exclusivity is highly valued, being one of only four owners of this exquisite Rolls-Royce adds to its value. It can be argued that the Droptail is more deserving of its price tag than the remnants of a burned Ferrari.

FutureCar Staff