Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini Abandoning LA Auto Show

Here's an unsurprising stat for you: 60 percent of all vehicles sold in the U.S. that cost over $100,000 find homes in New York, Florida and California. The majority of which are parked in garages in Manhattan, Miami and Los Angeles, respectively. So the revelation that Bentley, Ferrari and Lamborghini won't be attending next month's LA Auto Show is -- at the very least -- surprising.





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Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom could arrive within a year

Adding fuel to the rumormill fire, Autocar reports that a pure electric version of the Rolls-Royce Phantom could hit the streets within 12 months. Rolls' parent company, BMW, has been getting heavily involved in EVs and the Phantom would be an obvious choice to launch its new drivetrain considering the price premium already tacked onto the brand's offerings.
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Frankfurt preview: Rolls Royce Ghost takes to the Streets - with Video

Rolls Royce is giving us another preview of its 'baby' Phantom with a new video that shows the luxury sedan's product manager Dan Balmer taking a pre-production prototype for a spin on the road. Scheduled to be revealed to the public for the first time at the Frankfurt Show next month before going on sale in Europe at the end of the year and the rest of the world in spring 2010, the Ghost is powered by a 570 horsepower 6.6-litre turbocharged V12 engine coupled to an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox.

via:carscoop

Videos: Rolls-Royce Star of India to go on auction for €10,000,000

Rabid Rolls-Royce fans will be familiar with the name of Hans-Günther Zach, who runs his own museum dedicated to the famed marque in Mühlheim/Main, Germany. The old boy has now decided to sell off the whole shebang, including the crown jewel of his collection, the famous “Star of India” (above). The Star is a one-off 1934 Phantom II 40/50 HP Continental “All-Weather Convertible” custom made for the Maharaja of Rajkot. That car alone is expected to fetch as much as €10 million; if it does that would make it the most expensive car in the world.


There's no indication if Herr Zach is feeling the pinch of the world wide economic meltdown -- or if he's just moving on to greener pastures -- but his entire collection is up for grabs. While there's no doubt other impressive cars up for sale (like the 1926 "Aluminum Sculpture" Phantom I Open Tourer) the star is without question the Star. Never mind the royal pedigree, how can you get past the aluminum on orange carriage work?


Should it sell for its asking price, the 7.7-liter pushrod straight-six Rolls equipped with two additional headlights to follow the path of the steering (fourteen headlights total), would be the most expensive car in the world. After all, rumors of the Japanese man that reportedly paid $15,000,000 for a Ferrari 250 GTO before Japan's economy imploded in the late 1980s have never been proved. Happy bidding.
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Michael Jackson dead - leaves behind large car collection

Michael Jackson 1988 Lincoln Town Car limousine

Jackson owned at least four limousines, including a 1999 Rolls Royce Silver Seraph that was unusually decorated, to say the least. Our friends at Jalopnik described it well, when they said, "The dark blue Seraph wears an interior which looks to have been pulled directly from the Palace of Versailles." Jackson was said to have designed the interior himself, which probably explains the generous use of 24-carat gold. The vehicle was said to have a 5.4-liter V12 aluminum engine that generated up to 322 horsepower.

Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Touring Limousine

Back in February it was announced that a collection of items belonging to Michael Jackson would be auctioned off, including his own fleet of vehicles. Although that auction was cancelled in mid-April, it gave us a chance see how the King of Pop lived while being chauffeured around California.

Michael Jackson 1999 Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph Limousine

Now that MJ has passed on, we decided to take a look back at these vehicles. It is unknown what will happen to many of the Neverland Ranch possessions (Jackson did have a lot of debt), and surely some of these will wind up either on the auction block, or in a museum.

Michael Jackson's 1956 Cadillac Fleetwood Series 60 Special 4 Door sedan from Driving Miss Daisy

Jackson owned a 1990 RollS Royce Silver Spur II, trimmed in contrasting white leather and black fabric. Dark, tinted windows were adorned in white curtains, and a full-service bar that was used for god-knows-what. His white, 1988 Lincoln Town Car had a much more subdued interior that used gray leather and fabric. The fourth limo is the same 1954 Cadillac Fleetwood used during the filming of Driving Miss Daisy. Jackson's collection included a 1997 Neoplan Tour Bus with individual seats and booths, and a king's crown embroidered in the carpet. Possibly used on the HIStory World Tour, the bus featured a bathroom lined in porcelain, gold, and granite.

Michael Jackson 1988 GMC V Jimmy Half-Ton High Sierra Classic and 1993 Ford Econoline E150 van

Jackson other vehicles included a 1993 Ford Econoline van with leather seats, individual tv screens, and an old-school video game console, a 1986 GMC High Sierra firetruck, a 1988 GMC Jimmy, and a replica of a 1909 Detamble Model B Roadster. Amongst the collection was an electrified horse-drawn carriage, and a 2001 Harley Davidson touring police bike.

Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley electrified horse-drawn carriage Michael Jackson's custom Peter Pan golf cart Michael Jackson's black Dodge Viper mini-car with The Simpsons decorations Michael Jackson's 1909 Detamble Model B Roadster Replica
Source:worldcarfans

Rolls-Royce Ghost spotted with two-tone front end

Rolls Royce have been able to sell over 1,000 cars per annum. The introduction of the upcoming, cheaper Ghost will surely see these numbers shoot up even more. This example was spotted in southern Germany this past weekend. It features a two-tone finish on the front end and the same previously-spotted black grille.


Based on the 200EX Concept car, the Ghost was first publicised under the name RR4 during its many sightings by spy photographers. Later Rolls Royce owned up to the fact that they were indeed planning to launch a "baby" Rolls under the name Ghost, which harks back to the days of the old Silver Ghost.


Although the Ghost shares its platform with the BMW 7 Series (long wheel base), it is longer and larger than the 7er. The main engine to be used is a new 6.6-litre twin turbo V12 with 400kW (544hp) and maximum torque of 750Nm. Some technologies will also be shared with the Phantom and the Drophead.


The car will be unveiled officially to the broader public at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Sales should begin in early 2010 and prices are speculated at around £180,000 (US$286,600) a pop.
Source:WorldCarFans

Rolls-Royce Announces Ghost nameplate for RR4 sedan

Rolls-Royce is currently developing a brand new model positioned below the Phantom for launch in early 2010, which is expected to double the number of vehicles built by the ultra-luxury carmaker each year. Rolls-Royce has announced the name for its new model series which until now has been known as RR4. The name ‘Ghost’ was announced by CEO Tom Purves at a press conference held at the Shanghai motor show.


In a press conference at the Shanghai Motor Show, Rolls-Royce's CEO, Tom Purves, said "We are delighted to formally announce the Rolls-Royce Ghost. It is one of the most revered names in the automotive industry, evoking images of adventure and technical innovation. The name reflects this new model's breadth of abilities. The first cars to bear the Ghost name were known not only for impressive dependability and refinement but also great flair and style."


The vehicle will feature a pair of suicide-style rear-hinged doors in the back, and is designed to comfortably seat five adults. It will stretch roughly 5,399mm in length, 1,948m across and stand 1,550m in height.


Power is expected to come from a 6.6-liter twin-turbo V12 engine which produces 400 kW (544 hp) and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque. The engine will be connected to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission which was specifically designed to provide maximum gearshift comfort and fuel efficiency.


Production will start at the company’s Goodwood manufacturing facility on the south coast of England later in the year.
via:motorauthority



Other article:
Rolls-Royce 200EX (RR4) to Get 500 Horsepower Turbocharged 6.6-Liter V12
Geneva Debut: Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept aka RR4 Image Surfaces
Rolls-Royce Celebrates Record
Geneva Debut: Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept aka RR4 Image Surfaces
Rolls-Royce Celebrates Record

Autoblog stops at the Symbolic Motors Annual Spring Event '09

Symbolic Motors just held their Annual Spring Event to showcase all the new models from the high-end manufacturers they represent in their San Diego dealerships. The latest and greatest from Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, Lotus and Spyker were on display, along with some of the restoration projects the firm is carrying out in their Sorrento Valley facilities. Just for good measure, they also invited a few of their friends to bring along their own favorite wheels.


That meant there was a Ferrari Enzo, a Pratt & Miller C6RS Corvette, a couple of Miuras, a McLaren F1 GTR, a Porsche 962, an ex-Mario Andretti racer, two Bugatti Veyrons, a Koenigsegg CCX, a Lamborghini Reventon, a Blastolene special, and the sixth and final Ferrari Daytona prototype, to name but a few outstanding examples. In addition to the incredible cars on display, Symbolic threw open the doors to their shop and made staff available to answer questions. If that wasn't enough, there was free food and live music, as well as raffles throughout the day. Check out the gallery to see what you might have missed, and check out Symbolic if you happen to find yourself in the San Diego area with a few hours on your hands.
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Rolls-Royce 200EX (RR4) to Get 500 Horsepower Turbocharged 6.6-Liter V12

Rolls-Royce has just confirmed that the upcoming baby Rolls, aka the 200EX, aka the RR4, will be offered with a new and very powerful Turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine.

CEO Tom Purves made the announcement at a press conference in New York, whee the 200EX is currently being shown as a part of a world tour.

This entirely new powerplant will make in excess of 500hp and be combined with a new 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. There is no word on torque numbers but they will no-doubt exceeds the 500 mark as well, giving the new Rolls that classically effortless old-Rolls feel.

Purves also said that the engine will have significantly better fuel economy and significantly reduced emissions as compared to the 6.75-liter V12 engine found in the current range of Phantom vehicles.
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Other article:
Geneva Debut: Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept aka RR4 Image Surfaces
Rolls-Royce Celebrates Record

Geneva Debut: Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept aka RR4 Image Surfaces

The Rolls Royce 200EX goes to Geneva for its first public exhibition during the first week of March.


This cropped image exemplifies what the Rolls Royce RR4 looks like from the front grille. The company's new design language is evident from the multi-spoke polished grille, retractable Spirit of Ecstasy, two-tone exterior body color and what appears to be LED headlights. At the moment the RR4 is taking up the name 200EX. Rolls Royce has been using the EX suffix for its new concept cars as a throwback to the original 1EX of 1919 which was used as a prototype to test chassis and other engineering solutions.


For robustness Rolls Royce is said to be using thinner guage steel for the bodywork as opposed to the aluminium so extensively used in the Phantom. Other Phantom features passed down to the 200EX include rear doors that open rearward and close at the push of a button.


Riding on the new BMW 7-Series platform the 200EX is 435mm shorter, 42mm narrower and 84mm lower than the Phantom. However, at 3295mm the wheel base is longer than the extended wheel-base 7-Series. Despite the reduced proportions the 200EX provides the same level of comfort and space as the Phantom.


Finally, it can now be confirmed that the 200EX will feature a completely new 500hp V12 unit separate from the one in the Phantom.
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The latest jewel of Rolls-Royce’s lineup, the Phantom Coupe Debuts in Middle East
Rolls-Royce Celebrates Record
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Project Kahn Drophead Coupe

Project Kahn puts a highlight on the car with their Silver Mist wheel. The large, custom alloy measures 9.5" by 22" making it wider than the stock wheels. This is meant to give "a more sporty and aggressive feel." They also have another, darker grey tone wheel available in the same size. The original Rolls Royce center cap fits in the new wheels.


The folks over at Project Kahn have just sent out some photos of their Project Kahn Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe. Shown in Black Diamond, this version of the two-door was originally introduced back in July.


If you buy the car through the tuner company, it will come new with Elm Cluster Veneer Wood paneling and dash, Rolls Royce embossed front headrests, Piano Black steering wheel spokes, iPod connector, and a polished front radiator grille.



Lambs wool rugs are also included, but only the lord almighty knows how to get them clean. Make sure you wipe off your patent leather loafers before stepping in.


These new photos show the elegance of the DHC. The model already sold by Rolls Royce is meant to completely encompass the passenger in luxury, privacy, and quiet, while the driver is able to focus on the road with no distraction.

You can buy the Project Kahn Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe for £316.000, including taxes.
via:World Car Fans


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Phantom Coupe Sold out with 200 Orders - Mostly New Clients
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The latest jewel of Rolls-Royce’s lineup, the Phantom Coupe Debuts in Middle East

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has today unveiled the new Phantom Drophead Coupe for the first time in the Middle East, presented by the company’s official importer in Qatar, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha.Read All



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Rolls-Royce builds ‘Peony’ Phantom limited edition

The ‘Peony’ flower design is an ancient oriental motif that represents royalty, wealth and distinction. The motif, in traditional blue and yellow, is used throughout the vehicle, featuring as an exterior logo along with interior wood trim inlay and oriental art door capping. Customised tread plates also include the logo emblazoned with the words “Peony motif, exclusive Bespoke Phantom”. Customers also receive a special perfume developed by Emirati perfume company HIND.


The Middle East has been a major driver of the ‘Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program’ and currently claims the highest volume of requests for the custom cars. The program is a special service that allows customers to change virtually every tactile facet of the car, whether it is a thicker steering wheel or a completely customized cabin.

Working in a closed off area of the Goodwood assembly line, the Bespoke team even go so far as to develop their own paints, materials and mechanical modifications. The mechanical package of the Peony, however, has been left untouched, meaning power comes from the familiar 6.75L V12 engine. Peak output stands at 453hp (338kW) and 530lb-ft (720Nm) of torque. Read All



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benzs-Pininfarina Rolls-Royce Hyperion Officially Revealed

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe owned by Hall provides the base for the Hyperion, the rear seats of the model are removed leaving enough area to nudge the driving position back an extra 400mm.To accurately depict the styling of the pre-war cars, Pininfarina had to extend the roof which simultaneously shorten the rear end whilst keeping a beautiful array of soft flowing design lines.


The classic Rolls-Royce grille remains although it is now slightly inclined offering better aerodynamic performance and a set of recessed Bixenon headlights with LED technology lie both sides of it. Most of the bodywork is made of carbon fibre, although the doors which have been designed by craftsmen that usually focus on luxury boats are made of solid wood.


Much of the Drophead Coupe's interior styling remains, however a vintage 1945 watch specially designed for the Hyperion by Girard-Perregaux can be found attached to the dashboard, it can also be detached for Mr. Hall's personal use.

Mechanics beneath the Hyperion's elegant posterior have been left untouched


Pininfarina were challenged and commissioned by car collector Roland Hall to create a vehicle that would pay homage to the sumptuous cars of the 1930s, a challenge that is well within the grasp of the Italians specialists. Pininfarina have used their expertise to create special models in the past, some may remember the Ferrari P4/5 based on the Enzo or perhaps even the Scaglietti “K” springs to mind.




Source:World Car Fans



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