New Rolls Royce Convertible On the Road

Not exactly the matching weather for testing a convertible, yet – BMW engineers in Munich are on the road these days with their latest luxury baby, the convertible version of the Rolls Royce Phantom.

When BMW had a first concept car of such a convertible - the 100EX - on display at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, there was just guessing whether or not it would become a production version some time in the future. Meanwhile test cars have been sighted on several occasions confirming that a road version of the convertible is in the making.

The prototype is based on a shortened platform of the Phantom and is powered by the same 460 HP 6,75 litre V 12 engine as the sedan. It offers room for 4 adult passengers, and the folding canvas top is power operated. As can be seen from the photos, the car is almost finished, just the Spirit of Ecstasy is missing on the hood and the front- and tail lights have some tape for disguise. Note the particular handles for the rear-hinged doors.

Expect to see this top of the line luxury car on the road not too often. And if you do, it is most likely in Los Angeles, Dubai or St. Tropez, and the guy behind the wheel has spent about 250.000 British Pounds to own it.