2016 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE CONVERTIBLE

TestDriveNow Special QUICK TAKES: 2016 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE CONVERTIBLE OVERVIEW

Phantom Drophead Coupé

Inspired by the J-class racing yachts of the 1930s, Phantom Drophead Coupé epitomises romantic motoring. It is Phantom’s free-spirited alter ego. Sociable in character, it offers passengers a dual experience – intimate and cocooning or embracing the elements, depending on whether the roof is up or down.

Born to be Bespoke

Imagine a Phantom Drophead Coupé that’s entirely unique, commissioned to meet your wishes. Specify the colour of the soft-top. Bring out its sociable nature with a hidden refrigerator beneath the teak floor of the picnic boot, or a set of monogrammed glasses, held elegantly in place in personalised holders. Bespoke is the ultimate luxury.

Hand-built by perfectionists

Sixty pairs of highly skilled hands. That’s the level of artisanship that goes into building every Phantom Drophead Coupé at the Home of Rolls?Royce.

Each detail matters – the five coats of paint on the bodyshell, the bookmatched veneers and the hand-stitched leatherwork. Perfection is our benchmark.

Nautical allure

The overall appearance of Phantom Drophead Coupé has been designed to give the impression of an elegant motorboat at speed. Offering teak decking and a high waistline that tapers back like a boat-tail. With just the touch of a button, the convertible roof lowers, allowing you to embrace the elements.

The more informal character of Phantom Drophead Coupé is instantly visible. A dynamic rising profile, with its high waistline tapering back, builds on the tradition of waftability – the sense that it has the power to whisk its passengers away. Swiftly.

The optional teak decking was inspired by classic racing yachts – hand-made from 30 separate pieces and cut from the same tree for consistent grain. Grooves are precision-machined into the wood then hand-finished with black yacht builders’ caulk. The decking highlights the use of contrasting materials and sensuous tactility, and provides a discreet hiding place for the innovative soft-top.

Reminiscent of the sailcloth used by many of the boat builders close to Goodwood, Phantom Drophead Coupé possesses the largest and most refined canvas roof of any modern convertible car.

Step aboard

The nautical theme continues inside the cabin. Features are handcrafted in the finest natural materials: leather seats, teak veneers and a luxurious cashmere-blend hood. Protecting you from adverse weather conditions, the 5-layer soft-top provides excellent sound-proofing and opens in just 25 seconds.

Sociable by nature, Phantom Drophead Coupé craves long days out and weekends away. With three flute seats in both front and rear, all four passengers can relax in complete comfort. It takes over two weeks and nine hides to complete the hand-stitched leatherwork for each interior. All of which you can customise.

The versatile picnic boot offers space for a hamper, as well as a comfortable seat for two. Even when the roof is lowered, there’s still ample room for a set of golf clubs or luggage. A drinks cabinet and coolbox can be installed beneath the teak decking, making Phantom Drophead Coupé as much about entertaining as it is about driving.

Feel the air

Powered by the same 6.75-litre V12 engine as Phantom but with a shorter wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupé exudes sporting spirit. With a low centre of gravity and slightly rear-biased weight, the drive is as breath-taking as it looks.