When creating the Phantom Drophead Coupé our design team drew inspiration from the classic J-class racing yachts of the 1930s. The fastest yachts of their time, these pedigree vessels possessed a spectacular combination of ability, versatility and fitness for purpose. Thanks to the use of the finest materials in their natural state, they were also exceptionally beautiful. It’s this sense of functionality, immediacy and exposure to the elements our designers admired, and what they have striven to capture in the Phantom Drophead Coupé’s thrilling lines. The use of steel and wood – design highlights first seen in the 100EX experimental car of 2004 – cement the maritime theme. Honesty and integrity were paramount in the design process, which is why the Phantom Drophead Coupé has a soft-top, rather than a folding metal roof so beloved by the rest of the car industry. As Ian Cameron, Rolls-Royce’s Chief Designer, says, “It was very important that we didn’t create a folding hardtop, because that is an unclear proposition. Our customers wouldn’t own a reversible jacket, so why would they buy a convertible that looks like a Coupé Besides, there’s nothing more romantic than sitting in a soft-top car and listening to the rain pattering on the cloth hood.”

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com/drophead_coupe