Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection debuts

By Stephen Edelstein Published May 13, 2014

Earlier this year, Rolls-Royce announced a special-edition model that redefines the term “land yacht”: the Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection.

That model has finally debuted, and it’s every bit as bombastic as the teaser announcement indicated. Created by Rolls’ Bespoke customization division, the Waterspeed Collection commemorates Sir Malcolm Campbell’s 1937 water-speed record.

Today, Campbell is probably best remembered as that guy from the Hennessey commercials, but he’s a racing legend. He set the water-speed record four times, including a 129-mph run in the Rolls-powered Bluebird K3 in 1937, and set multiple land-speed records as well.

The Phantom Drophead Coupé probably won’t set an speed records, but it’s an impressive car nonetheless. Unveiled at a private event at the site of the Bluebird Motor Company in London, it’s been approved by the Campbell family and features a typically-Rolls attention to detail.

The car is finished in unique Maggiore Blue paint, named after the lake where the 1937 record was set and inspired by the Bluebird’s color scheme. The color extends to the engine and wheels, a first for a production Rolls-Royce.

Another Rolls first is the brushed-steel deck, replacing the wood found on most Phantom Drophead Coupés.

The interior features hand-engraved door sills and armrest accents, Abachi wood accents, and a color scheme that echoes the blue exterior. There’s also a two-tone steering wheel, another first for a Rolls-Royce, apparently.

Additional Bluebird references include a hand-embroidered glovebox panel listing Capmbell’s achievements, and a power reserve dial that matches the one on the Bluebird K3.

Unchanged is the 6.75-liter V12, which produces 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection will be unveiled to the public at the 2014 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa D’Este, after which buyers will fight over the 35 examples, which will sell for an “if-you-have-to-ask-you-can’t-afford-it” price.

Stephen Edelstein

Former Contributing Editor

Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…

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