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Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé
Their ideas on a modern coupé took shape at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the form of a prototype, 101EX. The concept car obviously was developed from the Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupé that had been on sale for quite some time and thus it might have been expected series production of the Fixed Head Coupé would start fairly soon. However the manufacturer embedded with BMW-Group decided on another time schedule. Following the unveiling of 101EX in 2006 a year passed by before in fall of 2007 an announcement was made that in 2008 production would commence. After the launch of the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé at the 78th International Geneva Motor Show in March 2008 several months waiting time followed before first deliveries were made.
The latest addition to the range offered by the worldwide dealer network was an obviously driver-oriented car and thus separated to a certain degree from the Drophead Coupé. There was a distinct difference to the cosseted transport experience on board the 4-Door Saloon especially as regards driving characteristics of the variant with extended wheelbase. All models did share the tractable and unstressed V12-engine with 453 bhp (SAE) but the Coupé with the short wheelbase of 3,320 mm almost inspired to enjoy that the engine liked to rev. An instant after the Sport button on the steering wheel had been pressed such feeling was more intense. Launch was in 1st gear and not in 2nd, each gear was raised to a higher shift point, quicker accelerator response was provided plus a faster kick-down and the dampers were stiffened, too. Roadholding of the new coupe was an impeccable blend of firm tyre grip and carefully tuned stiffer rear damping and modified spring rates. Body roll was reduced by a rear anti-roll bar of increased diameter. A sophisticated self-levelling air suspension continuously adjusted to road conditions and driver’s attitude; dynamic stability control (DSC) was standard.
Thus the Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé could be driven in a spirited manner albeit smooth compromise made sure nothing did spoil the positive impression. Despite all the coupés agility the figures testified there no aim to enter the realms of sportive performance. A comparative view at for example the Bentley Brooklands Coupé – that was established in the same league – showed an acceleration from 0-100mph in 11.9 sec. whereas the Phantom Coupé hit 100mph in 15.7 sec. |
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As regards outward appearance the lines were almost identical to those of the Drophead Coupé. Rear-hinged coach doors and the split tail compartment that opened in two parts were familiar features. From a certain distance side views of both models were almost indistinguishable. The broad C-post did offer to install a vanity mirror permit and the ample space allowed for a separate directional reading light, too. Offered as an option – though opted for with the vast majority of orders – was a full length starlight headlining incorporating hundreds of tiny fiber optics that could be dimmed from soft glow to bright shining. The combination of materials was sumptuous, senses could detect but luxurious refinement. A 15-speaker audio system with 6-CD changer (standard) or iPod connectivity (optional) providing a 420-Watt output was worth a note.
The Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé did complete the 'Phantom' series. The company were already busy in preparation of adding an entire second series, the first of which was heralded the following year with unveiling the 200EX – the concept car of what was Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ idea of a mid-sized 4-Door Saloon. Technical Data:
(Photos courtesy of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars) |
