Rolls-Royce Phantom

   The Rolls-Royce Phantom is produced since 2003. It is available with extended wheelbase as well. Production of this car still continues.

   The Phantom weights nearly 2.5 tones, but thanks to it's 6.8-liter V12 engine delivering 453 hp it accelerates to 100 km/h (60 mph) in just under 6 seconds. It's engine is developed by BMW and coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox.

   The Rolls-Royce Phantom comes with an air-sprung suspension, which is tuned for comfort. Despite being almost 6 meters long this car corners with a neatness unknown in any previous Rolls-Royces. Steering is accurate and light.

   The Phantom is very refined and there are hardly any outside noises heard at all even at the motorway speed. Engine is totally inaudible.

   The Rolls-Royce Phantom is one of the most expensive cars in the world. It costs fantastic amount of money to run and to service this car, but as far as you can afford to buy it, running costs will only be a pocket money. Only 10 000 Phantoms will be built, so residual values should be very strong. Reliability isn't an issue as it was engineered by the BMW and shares approximately 15 percent of mechanical components with other BMW cars, such as the 7-series.

   Inside the car you will find pure and distinctive Rolls-Royce styling. Assembly standards are superb, while the fit and finish are on higher level than on the previously hand-built cars. Materials used are of exceptional quality. The Phantom comes with a simplified version of the BMW iDrive system - a single knob that controls all the major functions.

   Driver sits in a high position, but the rear visibility is limited to ensure the rear passengers privacy. Also you're very happy that there is a parking sensor, when you're driving this vehicle.

   The Rolls-Royce Phantom is very generous on space, while an extended-wheelbase version offers even bigger interior volume. The rear doors open towards the rear to hide the person entering or leaving the vehicle. Furthermore such arrangement makes it easier to get in or out. Unfortunately the rear seats are not adjustable and the boot is obviously too small for it's class.

   Phantom comes fully loaded with active and passive safety equipment as standard. It's equipment list includes almost all luxury toys that are offered today. However each of them is equipped on order and it is unlikely that any two cars will have identical trim elements. Furthermore Rolls-Royce is ready to fit inside anything you want as long as you are paying for it.

   Advantages: Comfortable and extremely fast limousine, which is far more agile than it looks. Simply astonishing.

   Disadvantages: Annoying iDrive system borrowed from BMW. Prepare to buy a bigger garage.

   Verdict: Gorgeous car that's worth it's money.

   Also consider: Bentley Arnage, Maybach 57.