Rolls-Royce To End Production Of The Current Phantom | car News @ Top Speed Rolls-Royce To End Production Of The Current Phantom News by Kirby Garlitos + The Rolls-Royce Phantom, the flagship model that has proudly carried the Spirit of Ecstasy for the better part of the new millennium, will be retired in 2016 as the British luxury brand prepares to shift to a new era of Rolls-Royce models. The announcement was made by Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Mueller-Oetvoes, thus ending a 13-year run for the seventh-generation Phantom. According to Mueller-Oetves, the company will set aside the remainder of the year to round out the production of the Phantom, while also paying tribute to the model that has become the foundation of Rolls-Royce’s renaissance. Production is expected to conclude in November 2016 when the last Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé at Goodwood will be completed. Likewise, a handful of special edition models, called the Phantom Zenith, will be produced to celebrate the model’s highly successful and oftentimes influential production run.

Only 50 units of the Phantom Zenith will be built to underscore the model’s exclusivity. As for its successor, Rolls-Royce has yet to divulge a lot of specific details about the model. What we do know is that it will use the company’s all-new aluminum architecture, much like every RR model that will be arrive in-market beginning in 2018. This new architecture is expected to much lighter than the version used by the current Phantom. Without knowing any of the tech details, the mere fact that this new frame will be lighter is a good indication that the new model will have better performance times than its predecessor. Unfortunately, recent spy shots of the car doing winter testing in heavy camouflage have given little indication on what we can expect, although judging by how it looked, camo and all, Rolls-Royce still has a lot of work to do. The new Phantom, if it’s going to be called that, isn’t expected to arrive until 2018. For now, we’re probably more suited leaving the new model alone so we can spend time recognizing what the current version did for the Rolls-Royce brand.

It’s safe to say that without the seventh-gen Phantom, Rolls-Royce wouldn’t be where it is now. That’s going to be model’s lasting legacy, and a fitting one now that it’s ready to ride off into the sunset. Continue after the jump to read the full story. continue reading Why it matters The Rolls-Royce Phantom, at least by name, has actually been around since 1925 when the name was used as a replacement to the Silver Ghost. That’s why many of the most iconic Rolls-Royce models in the 20th century carried the Phantom name. Such was the appeal of the Phantom name that Rolls-Royce used it from 1925 to 1991, spanning six generations. The company fell on hard times in the 1990’s and the Rolls-Royce name changed ownerships numerous times before being acquired by its current owner, BMW . To its credit, the German automaker spearheaded a new era for the British marque that essentially began in 2003 with the launch of the seventh-generation Phantom.

Some can argue the merits of other Phantom models as being the most influential of them all, but there are also a pocket of people who believe that the seventh- and current-generation model is arguably the most important version of the Phantom. Throughout its life, the seventh-gen Phantom became the foundation of Rolls-Royce, the model that the company can proudly roll out anywhere and immediately attract attention from everybody in the vicinity. It expanded with a number of different variations in its life, including he Phantom Extended Wheelbase, the Phantom Drophead Coupe, and the Phantom Coupe, among others . It also spawned a lot of special edition models. There are actually too many of them to mention, but the most notable ones include the the Centenary Edition (2004), the Pininfarina Hyperion (2008), the 60th Anniversary Special Edition Phantom Droghead Coupe (2010), the Spirit of Ecstasy Centenary Collection (2011), and of course, the Phantom Zenith (2016) that will be released to commemorate the end of this incredible era for Rolls-Royce. It’s always bittersweet to see such an influential model near its end.

But for what it’s worth, the seventh-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom accomplished more than what most people thought it could. That, in itself, is probably the biggest reason why the seventh-gen Phantom will go down as one of the most influential models of the past decade and a half. Read our speculative review on the 2018 Rolls Royce Phantom here. Press Release Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer,Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018.

He also announced that Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models will not be renewed in the future. These two magnificent Phantom models will end their lives with a special collection of only 50 highly desirable cars to be called Phantom Zenith. The current seventh generation of Phantom started production in Goodwood over 13 years ago and quickly became the foundation upon which the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was built. A magnificent, graceful and powerful statement of the marque’s claim to the very pinnacle of super luxury, Phantom VII is now approaching the end of its production. During November this year, the build of the very last Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé at Goodwood will be completed. These models will not be replaced. Collectors around the world will be excited to learn that a spectacular collection of 50 unique Coupé’s and Drophead Coupés, called Phantom Zenith, will be built to celebrate the end of production of these truly exceptional cars. Rolls-Royce will also build the last Phantom VII limousines this year.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, said, “I am proud and excited to announce that a new Phantom is on the way – a contemporary and beautiful Phantom enhanced with cutting-edge technologies and design innovations. Any new Phantom is an historic and important moment in automotive history and we are working hard on perfecting the Phantom VIII.” Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reset the benchmark for luxury motor cars in 2003 when it launched Phantom VII, a motor car that has remained the pinnacle of pure luxury for the last 13 years. Over those years Rolls-Royce created many fantastic Phantoms that stunned the world with their beauty and redefined the notion of pure luxury motoring. Now it is time to take the next step in the luxury journey. Phantom VII – Continuing to set the luxury benchmark even as it prepares to leave the world stage Even as it prepares to leave the world stage, Phantom VII will continue to set the benchmark for luxury motoring with a number of limited-run collector’s pieces, each of which will be the last of their line.

To mark their exit, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Bespoke design department will create the most highly Bespoke examples of each Phantom model to date – Coupé, Drophead Coupé and Limousine. At the same time the craftspeople who build each Rolls-Royce motor car to roll down the line at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood are already preparing themselves for the painstaking work that will go into these very special final motor cars. Zenith – The very pinnacle of automotive excellence The first of these special collections will be named Zenith, and will be the last ever Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models available to commission from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged,” comments Director of Design, Giles Taylor. “Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added.

We expect huge demand for these 50 fine motor cars as we shall not look upon their like again.” Such surprise features will include a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser etched armrests depicting the original launch locations of 100EX in Villa D’Este and 101EX in Geneva; Bespoke instrument dials and a special treatment of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Each customer will also receive a ‘money cannot buy’ portable memento of his or her purchase, whilst the motor cars will be offered to clients in a palate of memorable colour combinations from Rolls-Royce’s history. Phantom VII – The return of the pinnacle of automotive excellence The launch of the seventh generation Rolls-Royce Phantom, on 1 January 2003, was much more than the reveal of a new super-luxury car; it signalled the 21st Century renaissance of the world’s most famous luxury automobile brand and the first glimpse of a masterpiece that quickly established itself at the pinnacle of automotive excellence, leading where others could only try to follow.

For the preceding five years, and in the absence of publicity, designers, engineers and craftspeople had overseen the birth of a flagship Rolls-Royce motor car and state-of-the-art production facility on the Goodwood Estate in Southern England. Without parallel in the car industry, the achievement was all the more astonishing for a brand which shouldered the weight of automotive history and for which expectations for the future were rightly very high. From launch, the Rolls-Royce Phantom proved itself a worthy recipient of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. From its Pantheon grille to long rear overhang, the design was clearly a Rolls-Royce. Every angle revealed a bold yet elegant car with road presence that was second to none. From 2005, new variants of Phantom VII were added. First was the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, followed by the ultimate in luxurious open-top motoring, the Phantom Drophead Coupé in 2007 and, in 2008, the Phantom Coupé, Rolls-Royce’s sophisticated grand tourer.

All these beautiful cars are timeless in their appeal, and have been the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke offering to its clients’ sophisticated requirements, allowing them to create individual works of art with their superlative cars. Today, every Phantom that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood has Bespoke features. ‘Waterspeed’, ‘Aviator’, ‘Metropolitan’, ‘Maharajah’ and ‘Serenity’ are a few of the names of Iconic Bespoke Phantoms which have entered private collections around the world and will live down the years as some of the most beloved Rolls-Royces ever. Rolls-Royce Phantom (2003) - pictures, information & specs Rolls-Royce Phantom (2003) Rolls-Royce Phantom When Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveiled the Rolls-Royce Phantom in 2003, it heralded a new age for the marque, proudly reclaiming its position at the forefront of automotive design and engineering. Working to the maxim of company founder Sir Henry Royce - "Strive for perfection in everything you do" - the design and engineering teams spent four years developing this breakthrough model.

Using the most advanced technology, whilst drawing inspiration from the company's rich heritage, their goal was clearcut: to develop a 21st century Rolls-Royce that would be truly worthy of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy. The result was the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Built at a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing plant in Goodwood, this flagship Rolls-Royce ensured the company's renaissance by combining the spirit of its illustrious forebears with ground-breaking technology and visionary engineering techniques. Design Creating a strong identity for the Rolls-Royce Phantom was essential, says chief designer Ian Cameron: "Our priority was to create a car that was obviously a Rolls-Royce from any angle, even if the Spirit of Ecstasy or the famous grille could not be seen." To identify this core essence, the design team immersed themselves in the brand and its history. This revealed classic styling cues such as a long bonnet, wide C-pillars and discrete windows, all of which were incorporated into the Rolls-Royce Phantom's design. Its powerful, upright stance and dynamic, rising profile are also unmistakably Rolls-Royce.

Yet advanced features such as a unique aluminium spaceframe and pioneering direct petrol-injection engine leave no doubt that this is a car at the cutting edge of technology. 2003 Rolls-Royce Phantom Exactly the same can be said of the unique rear coach doors, which stand as testament to the sophisticated engineering to be found throughout the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Hinged at the back, they allow rear passengers to enter and exit the car gracefully, and can be closed at the press of a button. The interior of the Rolls-Royce Phantom is clean and contemporary, the simplicity of the design belying the technology beneath. Any controls not needed for everyday driving are kept out of sight until required. The multi-media screen, for example, is hidden behind a revolving panel in the centre of the dashboard that normally displays a round, analogue clock. This apparent simplicity extends to the operation of the controls as well: even the highly sophisticated audio system can be operated using just one button. A hallmark of Rolls-Royce, and of the Phantom in particular, is the way in which the most advanced technology combines with traditional hand-craftsmanship to produce something extraordinary.

The switches for the power windows and audio system are beautifully crafted 'violin keys', while the chrome air vents are operated by traditional 'organ stops'. Together with the use of the finest leather and wood veneers, it is this fusion of high technology and hand-craftsmanship that gives the interior its unique and luxurious feel. Engineering At the core of the Rolls-Royce Phantom is a sophisticated, lightweight, aluminium spaceframe - a unique and advanced platform conceived specifically by Rolls-Royce's engineering team to provide a refined and accomplished driving experience. Constructed from more than 200 box sections of cast aluminium extrusion, the Rolls-Royce Phantom's spaceframe has the rigidity of a Formula 1 racing car. Manufactured entirely by hand, using around 120 metres of weld, the spaceframe is finished as if it were a precision instrument: each one is checked by laser to ensure accuracy to within a fraction of a millimetre. The completed frame is then placed in a computer-guided machining platform - the largest in the automotive industry - where the critical points are milled with unparalleled precision. Without the need to provide structural support, the Rolls-Royce Phantom's body panels are simply fastened to the spaceframe.

Made from lightweight aluminium and composite materials, they add minimal weight to the car. Only the boot is formed of steel, engineered to aid the 50/50 weight distribution so desirable for perfect handling. The Rolls-Royce Phantom's lightweight and rigid spaceframe provides the foundation for its extraordinary dynamic ability. It has excellent handling - enthusiastic drivers will appreciate the precision with which it can be placed on the road - but not at the expense of the ride, which is as serene and comfortable as one would expect of a Rolls-Royce. The spaceframe also helps to eliminate noise, vibration and harshness, contributing immensely to the calm and tranquillity of the Rolls-Royce Phantom's interior. The exceptional integrity of the aluminium spaceframe also provides significant safety benefits, offering excellent occupant protection. Yet it is not the only area in which safety is built into the Rolls-Royce Phantom's design. The position of the rear seats behind the C-pillar, for example, is inherently safer than the conventional position next to the doors and negates the need for rear side-impact airbags. In a collision, furthermore, the impact is progressively absorbed by crumple zones designed to dissipate the force through the chassis and understructure.

Naturally, the Rolls-Royce Phantom has been engineered to pass all current safety legislation. In addition, the Rolls-Royce Phantom incorporates a raft of safety systems utilising the very latest in technology and controlled by the Intelligent Safety and Information System (ISIS). ISIS takes readings from sensors located throughout the car and, in the event of an impact, makes up to 4000 calculations a second to establish its severity before deploying airbags and, or seatbelt pre-tensioners as necessary. ISIS works in conjunction with the other safety systems fitted to the Rolls-Royce Phantom, including Dynamic Stability Control and Dynamic Traction Control. Driving At the heart of the Rolls-Royce Phantom lies its naturally aspirated 6.75-litre V12 engine. Designed specifically for the Rolls-Royce Phantom, and hand-assembled by Rolls-Royce technicians, this sophisticated engine develops a massive 720 lb ft of torque, 413 lb ft of which is available at 1000 rpm. On the road that translates into instant, muscular power, carrying the Rolls-Royce Phantom from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds.

Maximising the extraordinary traction of the Rolls-Royce Phantom V12, a six-speed, electronically controlled, automatic transmission helps to deliver the seamless, effortless progress for which Rolls-Royce is famed. The Rolls-Royce Phantom offers an unparalleled passenger experience, and yet many owners have suggested that the best place to sit is behind the wheel. The view from the elevated driver's seat down the long sweep of bonnet to the Spirit of Ecstasy is the most inspirational in motoring, while the beautifully crafted, thin-rimmed steering wheel is a pleasure to hold and provides instant feedback from the wheels. Despite its dimensions, the Rolls-Royce Phantom has excellent dynamics and is easy to place accurately through corners. Exhilarating yet supremely relaxing, it delivers a driving experience of purity and precision. Exterior finish Strikingly modern and immaculately proportioned, the Rolls-Royce Phantom is a car of extraordinary elegance. Matching the beauty of its exterior design is the mirror-like lustre of the paintwork, testament to the great skill of Goodwood's paint technicians.

Five layers of paint and clear lacquer are applied to each Rolls-Royce Phantom - seven if it's a two-tone car - and between each application, our technicians sand the body by hand. After the final layer has been applied, the body is hand-polished for five hours to give a finish of unrivalled depth and sheen. There are 15 standard exterior colours from which customers can choose, although up to 45,000 different hues are available through the Bespoke programme. In keeping with Rolls-Royce tradition, single or double coachlines can be specified. Almost six metres long, and precisely level, these are painstakingly painted by hand in a process that takes three hours for each line. Our Bespoke artists can also design and apply individual motifs to a customer's Rolls-Royce Phantom. Interior The timeless architecture of the Rolls-Royce Phantom's interior combines with the finest natural materials to provide a luxurious social space in which passengers can relax. Cashmere and soft leathers give an air of sumptuous indulgence, while the very latest in audiovisual technology ensures that every journey is as pleasurable as possible.

The rear seats are elevated by 18 mm, giving rear passengers a peerless view out of the car, while head room is generous at 979 mm. Lounge seating with slightly curved outer edges allows passengers to turn towards one another comfortably; if preferred, however, the option of individual seats may be specified, adding a centre console which can be used to house a drinks cabinet, additional audiovisual equipment or other Bespoke items. The Lexicon audio system delivers a quality of sound unrivalled in the automotive world. Engineered to recording industry standard, this system uses studio-grade Lexicon components and is unique to the Rolls-Royce Phantom, using 15 speakers and a nine-channel amplifier to deliver 420 watts of sound. Two subwoofers are housed within 16-litre resonance chambers in the space created by the Rolls-Royce Phantom's double floor, while a combination of 100 mm mid-range and 25 mm tweeter arrays are located in the front and rear doors, on the parcel shelf and above the instrument panel. The result is an acoustic 'sweet spot' that encompasses the whole interior, giving the perfect, surround-sound listening experience from anywhere in the car.

For further entertainment, theatre configuration adds two 12-inch monitors within the veneered picnic tables in the rear. These screens are linked to a six-DVD changer and also allow viewing of digital television, depending on market restrictions. In combination with the Lexicon audio system, this option can make any journey in the Rolls-Royce Phantom a truly cinematic experience. Craftsmanship Only the very finest materials are used in the Rolls-Royce Phantom. Both the leather hides and the exquisite wood veneers are hand-selected by specialists from our leather and wood workshops - to ensure not only that they are of the highest quality, but also that they have aesthetic characteristics appropriate to the interior of the Rolls-Royce Phantom. They are then painstakingly prepared so that their inherent natural beauty and quality is displayed to best effect. It takes between 15 and 18 hides to upholster one Phantom - more for the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase. Each one comes from specially selected herds of cattle, and only the most supple mature bull hides are used. Each hide is checked meticulously by hand to identify any imperfections. The 450 individual leather parts are then cut out using a precision laser before being carefully stitched by hand.

Three different types of leather are used: natural grain for the seats and trims, pre-shrunk in sun-lit areas and tipped (embossed) on the centre console and door trims to provide an attractive variation. The barrel-dyeing process used to colour the leather gives a rich, uniform pigmentation through the entire hide whilst maintaining the natural feel, softness and grain. There are 13 standard colours, but many more are available through the Bespoke programme. Depending on specification, up to 43 wood parts are used in each Rolls-Royce Phantom. Each of these is constructed from up to 28 layers of wood, interspersed with thin sheets of aluminium to ensure strength and to prevent splintering in the event of an impact. The wood veneers used are sourced from sustainable forests and chosen for their richness and complexity of grain. There are six standard veneers, including Burr Walnut and Bird's Eye Maple, but any number are available through the Bespoke programme. Whichever they choose, customers can be assured of an unrivalled quality of finish. Craftsmen, many drawn from the yacht-building and fine cabinet-making industries, carefully book-match every veneer used inside the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

This highly skilled technique ensures that the grain on the left-hand side of each panel is an exact mirror image of that on the right. Not only does this symmetry apply to each panel, however, but across the cabin as a whole, giving each Rolls-Royce Phantom an exquisite and unique interior. Our craftsmen can also employ traditional marquetry techniques to inlay materials of a customer's choice into the wood veneers. From cross-banding with boxwood to inlays of silver or mother-of-pearl, these techniques can be used to create a distinctive alternative to the single veneer finish. Bespoke While the Rolls-Royce Phantom has an extensive options list, the Bespoke programme allows customers to create a car that is completely personal to them by specifying features that are not usually available and 65 per cent of Rolls-Royce customers choose to do this. Examples include a one-off colour for the paint or leather, or the use of an unusual wood to complement the interior. Customers may choose to personalise their Rolls-Royce Phantom by specifying embroidery on the interior leather: our Bespoke interior designers can fulfil any request, from simple initials to embroidered images.

Customised tread plates incorporating text or pictures can also be produced, perhaps featuring an owner's name or celebrating an event or limited edition. The Rolls-Royce Phantom's glovebox has been designed for adaptation: Bespoke possibilities include the fitting of a set of fountain pens or a humidor, perhaps complemented by a leather writing surface in the rear picnic tables or a Bespoke ashtray. Through modifications to the Rolls-Royce Phantom's body, the already spacious boot can be extended still further, giving additional room for an 85-litre suitcase. This allows a total of four large suitcases to be stowed. Whether the request is a 24-carat gold Spirit of Ecstasy or visible exhaust pipes, anything is possible. The Bespoke programme is limited only by the customer's imagination. Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase In 2005, the Phantom was joined by a longer model, the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase, which offers additional space for rear passengers while maintaining the beauty of the standard Phantom as well as its first-class driving performance and the comfort of all four occupants.

To create the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, an additional 250 mm was added to the rear passenger compartment behind the B-pillars. The extra length is achieved simply by using longer extrusions in the construction of the spaceframe, which was engineered specifically to allow for longer-wheelbase models. As a result, no torsional rigidity is lost, so the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase retains not only the powerful looks of the standard car, but also its outstanding dynamic performance and driving refinement. The only major new parts required are a new aluminium roof and door panels - and thanks to Goodwood's flexible production processes, the Phantom Extended Wheelbase can be built alongside the Rolls-Royce Phantom without any difficulty. The interior of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheelbase offers significant additional space and lends itself particularly well to the inclusion of Bespoke features - for example, a partition wall for passenger privacy. Other possibilities include drinks cabinets in the rear doors or additional audiovisual equipment, while many customers choose to add rear compartment curtains or even a safe in the boot. Through the Bespoke programme, any number of options can be explored.

Technical specifications No of doors/seats: 4 / 5 (optionally 4) Vehicle length: 5834 mm / 229.7 in Vehicle width: 1990 mm / 78.3 in Vehicle height (unladen): 1632 mm / 64.3 in Wheelbase: 3570 mm / 140.6 in Turning circle: 13.8 m / 45.3 ft Track front: 1685 mm / 66.3 in rear: 1670 mm / 65.7 in Width at shoulder height front: 1509 mm / 59.4 in rear: 1431 mm / 56.3 in Leg room front: 1028 mm / 40.5 in rear: 947 mm / 37.3 in Head room front: 1020 mm / 40.2 in rear: 979 mm / 38.5 in Boot volume (DIN): 460 ltr / 16.2 cu ft Fuel tank capacity: 

100 ltr / 22 Imp gal Drag Cd: 0.38 Tyre size: PAX 265/790 R540 A 111W Wheel size, front and rear: PAX 265 x 540 A Engine: 60° V12 Displacement: 6749 cc / 411.8 cu in Stroke: 84.6 mm / 3.33 in Bore: 92.0 mm / 3.62 in Power output: 453 bhp / 460 PS / 338 kW @ 5350 rpm Max torque: 720 Nm / 531 lb ft @ 3500 rpm Compression ratio: 11:1 Top speed: 149 mph / 240 km/h (governed) Acceleration urban: 23.2 ltr/100 km / 12.2 mpg extra-urban: 11.3 ltr/100 km / 25.0 mpg combined: 15.7 ltr/1

00 km / 18.0 mpg CO2 emissions: 377 g/km 2004 Rolls-Royce Phantom Sedan Used TMV unavailable Find Used Inventory For decades prior to the current-generation Phantom, Rolls-Royces were often perceived as being nothing more than beautiful old-school luxury barges with all the technological innovation and dynamic excitement of the Queen Mary.

So to say there was some skepticism surrounding the introduction of the Rolls-Royce Phantom would be like saying reality TV occasionally resorts to fabrication when ratings are at stake. When parent company BMW first announced in the late 1990s that it would be delivering a completely new Rolls-Royce to paying customers on January 1, 2003, most analysts wrote it off as the kind of posturing that typically accompanies a corporate takeover. After all, BMW didn't even own the Rolls-Royce brand yet. It would be four-and-a-half years before the German automaker acquired the rights to sell the storied brand, but the target was indeed met, and the first all-new Rolls-Royce in nearly 40 years left the all-new Rolls-Royce plant at Goodwood in West Sussex, England. Unlike so many of its predecessors, this beautifully crafted and elegant ultraluxury sedan lives up to the lofty expectations of a vehicle adorned with the hood-mounted Spirit of Ecstasy. While a case could be made for one of its few rivals, no other automobile boasts the unique style, grandiose dimensions and sterling reputation of the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Current Rolls-Royce Phantom Despite the ties to BMW, the Phantom is indeed a true Rolls-Royce. At more than 19 feet long, a regular-wheelbase Phantom surpasses a 7 Series by more than 2 feet in total length, and it can completely swallow a Mini between its front and rear axles. Producing a vehicle of such size that doesn't also flex and bend over every road imperfection calls for a unique structure. In the Phantom's case, that structure is an aluminum space frame that is both lighter and stiffer than conventional steel. While the ultraluxury competition may offer more high-tech gizmos and a greater sense of the contemporary, the Rolls-Royce Phantom features an undeniable old-world charm and much-larger-than-life presence. From its majestic hood ornament to its nearly 20-foot expanse, the Phantom commands attention like few other automobiles. And if that isn't sufficient, an extended-wheelbase (EWB) model is available with about 10 additional inches of overall length and rear-seat legroom. The Phantom is powered by a 6.7-liter V12 with 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. In spite of a curb weight approaching 3 tons, going from zero to 60 mph takes just 5.7 seconds. Behind the 20-inch wheels are superbly powerful brakes, an air suspension and automatically adjustable dampers. The inside of the Rolls-Royce Phantom is even nicer than might be imagined, with more leather hides and matching pieces of wood than you'll find on a herd of cattle lost in Sequoia National Forest. Numerous customization options provide ample opportunity to tailor this luxurious environment to one's exact, bespoke specifications. For those who actually drive their Phantoms, the instrument panel is arranged cleanly, with classic gauges and simple audio and climate controls. More complex functions are managed by an iDrive-like interface with a mouse-style controller hiding inside the center console. The rear seat provides lots of stretching-out room, of course, and the prominent C-pillars conceal the Phantom's VIPs while the rear-hinged coach doors provide them with proper ingress and egress.

Once underway, the large but spindly three-spoke steering wheel feels light in your hands, yet offers good feedback, allowing the big sedan to change direction with ease so long as you're traveling at a relaxed pace. Power from the V12 is prodigious, and the engine makes very little noise even under full throttle. The ride is superb, soaking up huge potholes and minor road imperfections with equal aplomb. There is some wind noise around the A-pillars at speed, but it's minimal and likely evident only because there's practically no other noise to be heard. Past Rolls-Royce Phantom Models The Phantom was an all-new model for Rolls-Royce in 2004. While some found it a bit garish, lacking high-tech features and easy-to-use secondary controls, we praised it for its decadent passenger accommodations, unmistakable styling and exemplary drivability for its size. A standard power sunroof and power "boot" lid were added in 2005, and the following year, the Phantom added Bluetooth connectivity and exterior video cameras that displayed their images through the main LCD screen to aid in parking. The long-wheelbase EWB model debuted for the 2007 model year.

2018 Rolls-Royce Phantom | car review @ Top Speed November 4, 2016 - Next Rolls Royce Phantom begins dropping camouflage June 6, 2016 - Upcoming Rolls Royce Phantom caught inside and out February 9, 2016 - First testing session Exterior Looking at the front end of the mule, it’s easy to tell that the car isn’t ready for production yet. It looks to be missing the driving lights that sit below the headlights, and the fascia is clearly a decoy as it has extremely flat styling. The air dam and corner vents are also missing any detail. It does look like the front end might be a little taller, which would allow the hood to have less of a downward slant. Then again, that could just be the camo playing eye tricks on us. Looking at the front end of the mule, it’s easy to tell that the car isn’t ready for production yet To the sides, we see good old traditional Phantom styling. The doors, body lines, mirrors, and even the glass all look to the same as the current Phantom. The story is the same as we move to the rear.

The rear deck lid aligns with the crease between the rear glass and the body – giving a hatchback like appearance. The exhaust outlets aren’t visible at this time, and the rear fascia also looks pretty flat compared to the current model. The most noticeable thing at the rear is the taillight assemblies. These are either new units or decoys, as the taillights on the current model don’t resemble what we’re looking at here. Not that the rather bland features we see on this embryonic test mule can’t change as the car moves closer to production. Using an old body on a new architecture isn’t unheard of during early testing phases, so as time goes on, we may see some significant changes. I wouldn’t hold my breath at this point, but let that bounce around in the back of your mind until we see something a little more production ready. Interior Although our paparazzi managed to snag a few shots of the interior, there’s not much to talk about as the center stack, console, and door panels are hidden under black clotch. Also, considering the car is still so far away from being ready for production, it’s safe to say the cabin will receive numerous modifications over the next month.

From what we can gather right now, the interior will be an evolution of the current design, so don’t expect anything too radical as far as styling goes. The most important updates should come in the technology department and include a next-generation infotainment system, bigger screen, LED ambient lighting and maybe even gesture control. The latter is already available on the latest BMW 7 Series and it’s safe to assume that Rolls-Royce will offer it as well. The limousine also appears to feature an all-digital instrument cluster. While this may upset fans of classic dials, but Rolls-Royce needs to step into the 21st century. Knowing the brand, clocks won’t disappear completely from Phantom and customers will probably be able to order one as an option for the center stack. The instrument cluster will also include a big LCD screen that will provide the driver with all the information he needs. Drivetrain Rolls-Royce has yet to mention anything about the drivetrain that will power the next Phantom. It’s safe to say that Rolls-Royce will go with a V-12 powerhouse, but outside of that, your guess is as good as any.

The current Phantom is currently powered by a 6.7-liter (6,449 cc) that produces 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque. I hope to see a power update that brings the Phantom closer to 550 horsepower and 600 pound-feet. Even if Rolls carries over the same V-12 untouched, don’t forget about that weight-saving space-frame. Currently, the Phantom tips the scale at 6,856 pounds. The new architecture should shave quite a few pounds off and should improve on the Phantoms 5.7-second sprint to 60 mph. Top speed will still be governed at 150 mph, but it should get there a bit faster after shedding a few pounds. We’ll update you as more information comes to light. Prices The current Rolls-Royce Phantom starts out at $417, 825. It’s too early to really speculate on what the next generation will go for, but I’m willing to bet that there will be a mild price increase. Given the new architecture and the potential for new technology, I could see the starting price increase to as much as $425,000.

Competitors Bentley Mulsanne The Mulsanne was created as a replacement for the Bentley Arnage in 2010, was updated in 2013, and is set to receive a redesign for the 2017 model year – just before we’ll see the new Phantom debut. Currently, the pumps out 505 horsepower and 780 pound-feet of torque from its 6.75-liter V-8. The coming update has us expecting to see a bump in power, though, probably into the 520 horsepower and 780 pound-feet range. That mild update in the power department should have the Mulsanne hitting the 60 mph benchmark in around 5.2 seconds. Right now you can get a Bentley Mulsanne by shelling out $290,000, but when the updated model hits the showrooms, expect to pay closer to $300,000. Read our full review on the 2017 Bentley Mulsanne here. Conclusion After looking at these new spy shots, I have to say that I’m not all that impressed.

Rolls is putting in effort to conceal both fascias, so that tells us there is going to be some kind of styling update there. Fascias aside, I think we may see an evolution of the rear taillights, but sadly, I don’t think the rest of the body is going to change much. Hopefully, the cabin will get some updated technology, but until we see official information from Rolls, we’ll just have to hope for the best. At this point, the one thing I’m excited about is the new architecture. I really look forward to seeing what this baby can do after shedding a few pounds. It really can make all the difference. LOVE IT New front and rear fascia new lighter architecture No major changes to body Official debut still a long time away Updated History Updated 07/05/2016: Rolls Royce dropped the first teaser image for the eighth generation Phantom which is set to be unveiled sometime in 2018. While it offers pretty much nothing on the future design language, the new image offers us a first look at the company’s all-new aluminum architecture, that will be used for both the new Phantom, but also for a series of future Rolls-Royce models.

Updated 06/06/2016: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming Rolls Royce Phantom out for a new testing session, and for the first time they managed to also take come shots of the interior. History Rolls Royce Phantom is in its seventh generation right now. The car went into production as the replacement model for the Silver Ghost in 1925, and it featured push-rod overhead valves. The four-door sedan underwent many name changes before Phantom II came in 1929. Initially, the car was christened as New Phantom, which later changed to Phantom I. The Phantom II came as its replacement and carried the same engine as the previous model, but with an all-new chassis. Rolls-Royce also made a special version called the Continental, which featured shorter wheelbase and stiffer suspension. The U.S. market received Phantom II models made in Derby, as the Massachusetts factory was closed down after the Phantom I was discontinued. Rolls-Royce only made the chassis, engine and mechanical parts of the vehicle, while everything else was provided by coachbuilder of owner’s choice.

In 1936, Rolls-Royce launched the Phantom III replacing the previous model and this became the sole V-12 Rolls-Royce until 1998 when Silver Seraph was introduced. A total of just 727 V-12 Phantom III chassis were built between 1936 and 1939. The Phantom III went out of production after 1939. Rolls-Royce again launched the Phantom brand with Phantom IV in 1950. This model became the rarest Rolls-Royce ever built with only 18 models ever produced. Rolls-Royce reserved the Phantom brand for royalty and heads of the state and powered the car with a 5.7-liter, inline-eight-cylinder powerplant. This model also got the bodywork from individual coachbuilders and emblem of Spirit of Ecstasy was put on the bonnets for the first time ever on a Phantom model. The last model was built in 1956. In 1959, the Rolls-Royce Phantom V came out.

The super-luxurious four-door saloon was based on the Silver Cloud II and carried the same V-8 engine of 6,230cc displacement along with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The exclusive car was owned by many high profile personalities including Queen Elizabeth and her daughter Queen Elizabeth II. The Phantom VI came out in 1968 based on the Phantom V with new engine which was also powering Silver Shadow. The 4-door luxury car usually came in limousine form largely made by Mulliner Park Ward. Frua based in Italy made at least two convertibles, one with two doors and the other one with four. There were two engine options both in V-8 configuration in 6.2-liter and 6.75-liter. The production stopped in 1990 after total of 374 units. The Phantom flagship was reintroduced in 2003 and continues to be available in the market. This the first model introduced after BMW took-over the brand. The car is assembled in Rolls-Royce plant in Goodwood. The current Phantom is available in 2-door drophead convertible and 2-door coupe style along with 4-door saloon.

A V-12 6.75-liter engine powers the car with maximum power of 453 horse power.

Question: First produced in 2003, what is the current Rolls-Royce model available?
Answer: (Rolls-Royce) Phantom