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2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe Preview: Longing for Seven Days
When Automotive Rhythms reviews press vehicles, it’s usually for a seven-day period. So, after spending about an hour behind the wheel of the 2009 Rolls-Royce Coupe, I felt like something had been stolen from me when we had to return this masterpiece so quickly. The “crime” began at Euro Motorcars Rolls-Royce in Bethesda, Maryland. Gil Hofheimer, general manager of the dealership, invited Automotive Rhythms out to drive the Coupe as part of a special ride and drive event they held for prospective Coupe and Drophead Coupe customers.
With a starting price a bit north of $400,000, the Phantom Coupe is a dream for most of us. Yet, there are still many that the recession has not really touched. Gil’s team has already sold eight “Rollers” this year, and undoubtedly has a few orders for the new pride and joy of the fleet, the Phantom Coupe. Teaming up with Warren Brown of the Washington Post, and Product Specialist Alyssa Bartashy of Rolls-Royce, we hit suburban Maryland roads in grand style.
First impressions of the Coupe were, well, impressive! With a 6.75 liter V12 engine making 453 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, accelerative force is ample. My previous experience driving the four-door Phantom was best described as “floaty.” The Coupe’s air-damped suspension has been recalibrated for a sportier feel, and the results are much less body roll in this multi-ton affair. While no one will call handling quality “Porsche-like,” it is enjoyable, and encourages you to push the big Coupe with authority.
Its exterior is very aggressive, with a long, stainless steel “bonnet,” and lowered roofline. It’s a downright gorgeous car. The doors open at the “A” pillar, a unique feature that had jaws dropping outside the dealership. Inside, you’d better like yards of premium leather and hand laminated wood, because it’s everywhere. The ceiling features a planetarium-like starscape. Yes, the Rolls-Royce folks hand drill holes in the leather headliner, and hand wire LED lights to each of the more than 1600 holes. The result is a lunar spectacle. One you must see to fully understand and believe. You can control brightness with a dimmer switch, or turn the display off completely.
Should the “base” offerings from Rolls-Royce not meet your lofty standards, a full bespoke program is available to outfit your Roller with pretty much anything your heart desires and your wallet can stand. Seven days behind the wheel is due for a proper evaluation of this stunner, so stay tuned for our full review of this sure to be best seller for Rolls-Royce.
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