Rolls-Royce Ghost
The new Rolls-Royce Ghost will look virtually identical to the 200EX concept rolled out at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, featuring the third evolution of Rolls-Royce's now familiar headlight graphic, first seen on the Phantom, and a variation on the laid-back grille treatment that debuted on the Phantom coupe and convertible. With a 'faster' backlight and C-pillar, the Ghost is a much more rakish looking sedan than the giant Phantom, though at 212.6in long and 61in tall, it's still an imposing car.
Under the hood is a new direct injection 6.6-liter V-12 with two turbochargers. Developed by BMW this engine will have over 500hp, making the Ghost the most powerful Rolls-Royce ever. The engine will drive the rear wheels through ZF's new eight speed automatic transmission. Although the Ghost uses elements of the new BMW 7 Series' platform, much of the body structure is unique to the car. The cowl height is higher, and the rear doors are rear-hinged, like those of the Phantom.
The interior is awash with Rolls-Royces's trademark rich leather, flawlessly polished wood and bright chrome, though the design is more modern than the deliberately archaic Phantom's. The instrument panel features are large "black screen" for warning lights, and the sat-nav screen is larger and more detailed.
On sale date is early 2010. Price? Between $250,000 and $280,000.
Bottom Line: If you need to know how much it costs, you can't afford it
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