The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe represents the pinnacle of luxury grand touring, produced by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars from 2007 to 2016. As a convertible iteration of the Phantom, it offered an open-air experience without compromising the brand’s renowned comfort and exclusivity. Positioned firmly in the ultra-luxury segment, the Drophead Coupe catered to discerning clientele seeking a bespoke and powerful vehicle. It was not directly sold in the United States as a new vehicle through traditional Rolls-Royce channels, but examples were imported and sold through specialist dealers and private sales. The Phantom Drophead Coupe stands as a testament to Rolls-Royce’s commitment to handcrafted quality and engineering excellence.
Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe: A Legacy of Open-Air Luxury
The Phantom Drophead Coupe emerged during a period of revitalization for the Rolls-Royce brand, under BMW ownership. It aimed to blend the iconic Phantom’s presence with the allure of a convertible, appealing to customers who desired a more dynamic driving experience. The vehicle’s design drew heavily from classic Rolls-Royce convertibles of the 1930s, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. The Drophead Coupe was built on a modified Phantom platform, incorporating significant structural reinforcements to maintain rigidity with the roof lowered. It quickly became a favorite among celebrities and high-net-worth individuals, solidifying Rolls-Royce’s position as a symbol of status and sophistication.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Phantom Drophead Coupe lies the naturally aspirated 6.75-liter V12 engine, designated N73B68A. This powerplant delivers 460 horsepower at 5,350 rpm and a substantial 720 Nm (531.04 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3,500 rpm. The engine’s robust torque output provides effortless acceleration and a relaxed cruising experience, characteristic of Rolls-Royce vehicles. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission, optimized for smooth and seamless gear changes. Performance figures include a 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) time of approximately 5.6 seconds and a governed top speed of 149.13 mph (240 km/h). Despite its considerable weight of 2,620 kg (5,776.11 lbs), the Phantom Drophead Coupe boasts a respectable power-to-weight ratio of 175.6 hp per tonne. Fuel economy, unsurprisingly, is not a priority, with combined consumption rated at 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg).
Design & Features
The Phantom Drophead Coupe is a two-door, four/five-seater cabriolet, distinguished by its long hood, sweeping lines, and imposing presence. The body is constructed primarily of aluminum, contributing to both strength and weight reduction. The soft-top roof is a multi-layered affair, designed to provide excellent insulation and a quiet cabin experience when raised. The interior is lavishly appointed with premium leather, wood veneers, and bespoke detailing, reflecting the owner’s individual preferences. Features included power-adjustable seats with massage functions, a sophisticated infotainment system (for its time), and a premium audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis designed for occupant protection. The emphasis, however, was on creating a luxurious and comfortable environment, rather than prioritizing cutting-edge safety technology. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 315 liters (11.12 cu. ft.), sufficient for weekend luggage.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | Phantom |
| Generation | Phantom Drophead Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 6.75 i V12 (460 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 24.6 l/100 km (9.6 US mpg, 11.5 UK mpg, 4.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 15.9 l/100 km (14.8 US mpg, 17.8 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 175.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 274.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 460 Hp @ 5350 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 720 Nm @ 3500 rpm (531.04 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N73B68A |
| Engine displacement | 6749 cm3 (411.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 12 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.6 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2620 kg (5776.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3050 kg (6724.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 430 kg (947.99 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 315 l (11.12 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5609 mm (220.83 in.) |
| Width | 1987 mm (78.23 in.) |
| Height | 1581 mm (62.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3320 mm (130.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
