Motoring News

The latest model from Rolls-Royce, the Phantom Drophead Coupe, will make its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show this week and see its UK production commence at Goodwood this summer.

Rolls-Royce describes the four-seat, two-door convertible as a "less formal interpretation" of the brand’s characteristic design than the four-door Phantom.

The new model will allow buyers to specify a brushed steel bonnet, which is hand-finished to ensure a uniform grain, and a rear teak deck.

Owing to its aluminium frame, the new Phantom is "lightweight and exceptionally strong", according to Rolls-Royce, while its fabric hood is the largest of any modern convertible and uses five layers of material for insulation.

The car will be powered by a 6.75-litre, naturally aspirated V12 engine, which will enable the car to reach 62mph in 5.7 seconds.

Graeme Grieve, sales and marketing director of Rolls-Royce, commented: "The reaction to the Drophead Coupe has been phenomenal. This year’s production has already been allocated and there are currently only a few build slots left in 2008.

"We are delighted that more than half of the orders are from customers who have never owned a Rolls-Royce before, so the new model is significantly expanding the appeal of our products."

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