The new National Geographic series about how some of our favourite cars are built has featured the highly exclusive Rolls-Royce Phantom. The car made history when it became the first model manufactured under the ownership of BMW back in 2003. Of course the name Phantom had been used six times before during a period of over 70 years.
Building one Phantom takes about 450 hours and involves craftspeople that include artisans, designers, engineers, mechanics, painters, sewing machinists and others. The process begins in Unterhallerau, Germany where the stiff but lightweight spaceframe chassis is put together, where after it's sent to Dingolfing for corrosion-resistance treatment and primer paint.
The Goodwood plant in the UK is responsible for fitting such items as the interior wood trim which is hand-crafted from exotic veneers and A-grade Bavarian leather upholstery. Customisation is completed here as well and can include requests like a champagne picnic basket within the boot. Rolls-Royce has to ensure that whatever individualisation has been ordered will last as long as the car itself. About 80% of all Rolls-Royce cars are customised or Bespoke in proper RR-speak.
The Phantom is currently offered in three basic styles; a four-door Phantom, a two-door Phantom Coupé and the convertible Phantom Drophead Coupé. All three feature a 6.75-litre V12 engine worth 338kW (460hp) and 720Nm.
