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| Rolls-Royce Phantom |
| Article | Image gallery (17) | Specifications | User Comments (103) |
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Add your comments on the Rolls-Royce Phantom
| Rolls-Royce magnitude |
| Ferrari1 25-2-2004 |
When I first saw pictures of this car or limo, I fell in love with it. No, no I really did. When I saw its pictures on the internet and in magazines, words such as �elegance� �prestige� and �class� where what came to mind. Shortly after, I saw a segment on a favorite TV program all about this praised Phantom. They too, loved the Phantom. But three days ago, I went to the Canadian International Auto Show, and all changed from there. I did not like the car, I did not love the car, I drooooooled over the masterpiece. Mmmmmmm Rolls�� Anyway, this first thing that struck me about this limo was not its royal appearance, but its SIZE. I mean, this car is massive! Its like the size of a eurovan for God�s sake! Think I am a nut bag? Take a look at theses figures I got from the Rolls-Royce site and the auto show: 5834mm in length, 1883mm wide and1632mm tall. Now try and picture the overall magnitude of this car. When Rolls-Royce made this car, they were thinking BIG. |
| The Designers |
| Coventrysucks 26-11-2003 |
"I attended a very interesting talk by the two chief designers of the Phantom, at University Today. Marek Djordjevic, chief exterior designer, and Charles Coldham, chief interior designer. Ian Cameron wasn't responsible for the exterior styling, but was Design Director, responsible for turning the proposed design into the finished article. They made some very interesting points about the car; It is, supposedly, the first production car to offer two completely unique interiors. One is featured in the pictures on this site, featuring a wrap-around bench seat, and flat cabin floor, whilst the other has two separate armchairs, with a large centre console between, with space for TV screens, fridge etc, much like the Maybach. Another point they made was that this car is not a direct competitor with the Maybach, as the two cars cater for different tastes. The Maybach is very much more of an office type atmosphere with lots of gimmicks and gadgets to play with, whilst the Phantom is more of a relaxed lounge atmosphere, which was designed around ""Rolls Royce luxury"". In fact it was commented that people in the market for one of these cars don't decide which one to buy, they already know which one they want. SoCal: They did say there is to be a ""family"" of Rolls Royce cars, but didn't say anything about what type of cars these would be, but the Rolls Royce Design team are now based in Munich. Also I would like to point out something about the large number of people saying that no-one will buy one because they are too ugly etc: Do you REALLY think that they would build this car if all of the potential clients they consulted with, both with re ect to what they expected from the new car, and with the design prototypes, said ""I'm not going to buy one"". So what if YOU don't like it, YOU aren't buying one. Get over it. This design is what was chosen as it is what the ACTUAL customers of the car want. And you should all probably start worrying, as from 100 or so design students from various stages in their degrees, the general consensus was of approval. �It doesn�t apologise for itself� Marek Djordjevic 26/11/03" |
| """Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best |
| Ferrari1 19-9-2003 |
"I believe it was Sir Henry Royce who said, ""Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it."" This is motto echoed in the Rolls Royce Phantom. In this car, we see nothing but pure luxury, astounding performance, and surprisingly, British elegance and heritage. I say surprisingly because it was BMW who designed this car and BMW German. But BMW did a wonder of a job on this car, upholding its Rolls Royce�s spotless reputation for building world-class hand-built full size luxury sedans. Or should I say limos? Now this particular master piece has a hefty 6.75 liter 453hp V12 power plant. And when it comes to the-top-of-the-line luxury, the Phantom has got the works. It has all the world class qualifications. These are luxuries in the car that most of us with less then $320,000 U.S.( which is how much this limo costs) think are �way cool.� And they are. Such things are the mascot that goes in to the car electronically to keep it safe from unwanted attention, the suicide doors, which close fully ate the touch of a button from the rear of the cabin, the little foot rests that pop in and out from the floor in the rear, the rear seats which are bit curved so that u can discuss matters over tea, and countless other world-class luxuries. All in all, this is nothing less then a dream car. (or if you have $320,000, it maybe reality)" |
| The Epitome of Monstrosity |
| NosferatuI 10-8-2003 |
"To me, the Phantom seems like a car that you either love or hate. Personally, I do not think that I have ever hated anything more. -As other have said (and I wholeheartedly agree), it is extremely ungraceful. And, although it is 'unique,' it is to a terribly bad extent. The car lacks any nice characters. It merely 'sports' stupidly simple geometric designs, as pertaining to the hideously large, completely square (and tremendous) grill, the ugly rectangular headlights, an quite simply, the entire automobile is a box. I also especially dislike the thick C-pillar that hides the back passengers, and the obscenely large, white-walled tires (they appear to belong to an SUV). Now, I admit that I have not driven one, so I would have no right to comment on any of its engine or stability features, but I have seen one. I will agree with those who feel it looks better in 'real life,' but I must say, hardly so. It still appears drastically disproportioned. Interior wise, I feel that it has nothing to even compare to its best competition, which I consider to be the Maybach. Sure, it has nice leather and wood, but there is nothing truly special, like the reclining seats in the Maybach 62. -Also, those large 'suicide doors' are nice in a traditional sort of way, yet are also outdated, -and I read a review that said that the doors which were used or the sole purpose of making it easier, makes entry and exit unnecessarily difficult. If I had $300,000 to spend on a car, it would certainly buy the Maybach (preferably the 62). Its lines are graceful, sleek and not pretentious, like its Rolls Royce counter-part. Those who argue that it is too much like an modified S-Class, I agree to some extent, yet I love the Mercedes Benz S design, anyway. Also, if anyone thinks that I am bias against Rolls Royce, or not giving the Phantom a fair chance, I must say that I love the Rolls Royce Park Ward, and I especially love the Bentley-Mulliner limousine (Please look it up if you haven't heard of it. I assure you of its inherit beauty and amazing Maybach rivaling {just not quite there, in my opinion} interior). Thank you for reading my two cents, and I deem that this is an appropriate quote from Jay Leno (A Maybach sponsor) to end with that particularly speaks to the Phantom: ""With a Rolls-Royce, you feel like you're saying, 'Let's get in our fancy car and collect the rent from the poor folks.' The Maybach is almost stealthy. You don't get those 'There go the rich jerks' looks.""" |
| New model? |
| SoCal 5-8-2003 |
I live in Southern CA, Los Angeles County. My route home takes me along highway 126, in northern L.A. county. Just two days ago, I spotted a heavily disguised Rolls Royce. It appeared to be a Phantom, but I'm very confused as to why it would be disguised, since it is already available. It was a dark brown color, lacking all chrome trim and a disguised radiator shell. From the front it almost looked like a lowered full size truck (dimensionally). When it passed by on the opposite side, did I see the side view and realize what it was. With the disguise it looked like a car from a Batman movie or Dick Tracy, very gothic looking. Any ideas? BMW has a design center in Southern CA and I've been able to see various models being tested, such as the Z8 before introduction and the new Z4. I've been keeping my eyes open for the new 6 series. |
| Test Drive |
| mikec 14-7-2003 |
I test drove the Phantom this past weekend. It was a tremendous experience in every way. The absolute ultimate in comfort and performance. If one hasn't driven it, I would would find it hard to accept any criticism of it. |
| I stand corrected |
| kudosdude 28-5-2003 |
I have seen one, in the flesh so to speak, at Beaulieu this weekend. My apologies as to my previous comment. It looks FANTASTIC. This beast really does impress. When looking at the images above it doesn't look right. But place it next to other cars it instantly works as a shape. This car is HUGE. Seriously impressed |
| this over maybach |
| zamook 26-5-2003 |
it's very interesting to compare this Rolls over the Maybach - I'm a huge Rolls Royce fan but I have to admit that the Maybach is very impressive and crucial, apparently it's more luxurious than anything else, but if you look at the outside, there is not that much charm present - this proves that Rolls-Royce remains dominent and of course exceptional even though there was changes in the design. |
| the beauty or the beast? |
| haseeb-exotic 25-5-2003 |
i was surprised like everybody else when i first saw the pics.i never thought RR would have such an unususal design especially when BMW has helped in making it.im not comment on the design until i see it with my very own eyes.i did see some photos of it in a magazine & to tell u the truth it looked remarkable .it had a presecne that is only recognised in a rolls royce.i also read thet it has an umbrella stored in its door which slides out when a button is pressed & it has also inherited the 7 series's i-drive system with a screen placed behind a dial. its gonna have a tough competition with the maybach 62 & bentley arnage T.from its looks maybe bmw designed it to scare other cars away like the mini cooper, the beetle & the smart car.maybe bmw have finally found a solution to traffic jams. |
| "wow, its impressive; luxurious!!!!!" |
| cranko2510 24-5-2003 |
Wow! this car is excellent. I like its luxurious touch, and the front part too. The RR figure that is in the front of the car is good. wow, i am very impressed!!! I think RR should improve the backpart of the car. But well, nice work RR! |
| Arrogance is justified |
| SpEEd_DeMoN 3-5-2003 |
"It may be ""ugly"" but then again, beauty is in the eye of the beholder...personally, i feel it dosent look that bad....its grand and arrogant presence cannot be denied, well its only right for a car of this status... it costs s$1.5 million bucks in singapore! and thats just for the ""entry-level"" verson!" |
| looks like a bangercar |
| Tardis 30-4-2003 |
The thing looks like it's almost ready for the scrapheap. As if some mindless bloke took off the chrome bumpers, changed its original wheels for a nice set of oversized wheels and fat tires at quick-fit and prepared it for a bangerrace. In short: the looks are dramatic in a negative way. Inside it's a messy mix of very unsophisticated shiny wooden planks and aluminium bits on the dash. When I saw the pictures of the Phantom a few months ago, I thougt it was only a concept, a rough indication how Rolls Royce's future cars would look like. Rolls Royces used to be bulky but elegant cars, but not this one. Thats a shame. |
| "I'm afraid I agree on the ""ugly,"" but it's not worded fir |
| DoctorBean 16-4-2003 |
"Ugly as hell would be more appropriate. BMW tried to resurrect the look of the old Wraith, Cloud (I, II, and III) and Phantom (especially the James Young Phantom iterations; 1960s - 1970s). BMW indeed succeeded in making those parallels known . . . not a single one of us has missed them, after all . . . but the resurrection is less like ""Snow White"" awakening from sleep and more like Frankenstein's Monster come to life: the car is bulky, hulking, brutal, and militaristic. I can't help but wonder if this is truly a car or a weapon. It�s not the size I�m complaining about � a Phantom is SUPPOSED to be huge. It�s the utter lack of grace and proportion such as found in the old Wraiths, Silver Clouds (short and long wheelbase), and the immortal James Young Phantoms. To BMW�s credit, the interior is fantastic and the drive is, apparently, impressive (Edmunds Review: http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadtests/firstdrive/92556/article.html?tid=edmunds.e..rtsearch...Other+Make*). I think it�s worth noting even specialty car retailers are commenting on the graceless, disproportionate shape of this new BMW Phantom (http://www.charlescrail.com/80%20RRSS2.html). My thanks to that old psycho Margaret Thatcher for setting the stage for a fine British car company - a company known for making high-quality, hand-built motorcars as true, mobile works of art - to the very people who bombed London flat in the 1930s. Seems they have taken their revenge for losing the war. I'd rather drive a bicycle, frankly: at least I'd have some freedom to breathe, no i-drive, the wind in my hair, and ""the box the Cadillac Sixteen came in"" to store good-old-British-car memories. If I ever go for a Rolls, you can bet it�s build day will be, at the latest, some date in1970; preferably earlier." |
| Truly Phantom |
| iPaQ86 10-4-2003 |
Look at the massive presence it has! It will certainly fit the super-rich. But, if you want to be really pampered, go for the Maybach 62. You can sleep in the 62, but not the Phantom. You can do a lot of things in the 62 which u can't in the Phantom. |
| Obviously a Classic Design |
| Buick Eight 1-4-2003 |
"With substantial references to the past heritage of the Marque. Examples include the seating position: increased comfort for driver and passengers, and confident operation result from a taller, more upright position; coach-design rear doors offer ease of entry and exit; taller coachwork increase visibility as well as overall comfort and creates a more classic presence. Additionally, I submit the aluminum spaceframe construction is one of the more important of many technological advancements in the new design. This machine I think will offer the expected Rolls-Royce experience for the informed owner." |
| The Box |
| ram26014 29-3-2003 |
"No one said it better than Motor Trend when they said ""It looks like the box the Cadillac sixteen came in"". And they were right the Phantom is simply not what people wanted from Rolls Royce. And if they want to stay in the auto moble industry they will start giving us cars that we will want to drive and stop giving us what they want us to drive." |
| ARGH |
| siamese_echidna 23-3-2003 |
QUOTE: and it shows no signs of being a clumsy disaster like the 745i or the Z4. The Phantom and the Mini are the two best designed BMW group cars since Chris Bangle poisoned the well, and he has had his hand in neither of them. Coincidence? END QUOTE. I am completely fed up with people as narrow-minded as you. Folks forget so quickly that Chris Bangle is also responsible for the outgoing models that BMW enthusiasts so dearly love: E46 3 series, Z3, E39 5 Series, Z8, X5. When BMW decide to begin something new, something non mainstream, people immediately say 'oh that's disgusting,' not realising that they are in fact amazing, highly advanced cars, that even look good too. The Z4 w/ body kit and clear corners for example, is one of the nicest looking cars i've ever seen, and the 760i by no means the most shabby either. So, when you think of Chris Bangle- don't think of your first impression of the 7 series. Think of the E46 3 series, the Z3, the E39 5 Series, the Z8, the X5, the Z4... and then maybe the 7 series. |
| Hate Bangle's bungles, love the Phantom |
| Buzz 6-3-2003 |
I've just seen the new Phantom at Symbolic Motorcars of LaJolla. It is far better looking in the metal than in photos, and it shows no signs of being a clumsy disaster like the 745i or the Z4. The Phantom and the Mini are the two best designed BMW group cars since Chris Bangle poisoned the well, and he has had his hand in neither of them. Coincidence? I was concerned about the Phantom based on photos of its headlights and front bumper, but seeing it in the metal has changed my mind. The design flat works, and made the Bentleys surrounding it look as ordinary as Mercedes. My only concerns externally were the decision to fit the radiator shell flush with the chrome stip bisecting the hood rather than the hood itself, and the two-tone treatment of the car that I saw had a chrome strip defining the separation as far back as the C-pillar, but from there on there was just the meeting of two colors of paint. Looked slightly unfinished as it was. |
| The Phantom |
| Henry11299 2-3-2003 |
In lieu of reading the previous comments, I must say that a great number of you are sorrowly mistaken in your quick and unthoughtful review of this meticulously crafted and appointed automobile. Rolls Royce has fashioned a wonderful automobile with the help of it's latest parent company, BMW. At first glance the Phantom's pronounced grille catches your attention and screams classic Rolls Royce. The Phantom's well-proportioned square headlights give insight into the designer's vision, to reflect on the past, and to gaze into the future. The interior is not cluttered with useless gadgets and tools like that of the Maybach, but simplisticly oriented, in turn letting the driver focus on the power that is harnessed in the thundering V12 engine. The Rolls Royce Phantom unites the esteem of Rolls Royce's past with the promise of it's future. |
| The Silver Hitler |
| xldoc 22-2-2003 |
This thing is seriously ugly with it's Peterbilt grill and pimple headlights. |
| It is what it should be like... |
| ziaashraf 21-2-2003 |
Accroding to the comments written previously. It can be seen that most Rolls Royce dreamsers have not liked the Rolls Royce Phantom 2003, but I think, it was a work well done by the Rolls Royce Company... Beacuse Rolls Royce are not built to be very SPORTY or AERO-DYNAMIC in design... These cars are designed to have a CLASSICAL touch to get itself catagorized in a different CLASS of cars. Moreover, accoring to the engine spectfications it looks that the Rolls Royce Phantom 2003 is a car of POWER, COMFORT and STYLE... |
| The Phantom really needs redesigning! |
| george_m 8-2-2003 |
"What is left from the good old Rolls-Royces is the interior although these aluminium application look like shit.Should it have more curves and not so many angles making it look like the old Mercedes from the 80s', putting and a twin headlamps, I could see a resemblace to the Cloud 3.But the car is totally disproportioned.The headlamps and the mask are totally out of the concept.I was looking forward to see something that would like as an evolution starting with the design of the Seraph, but I was totally disappointed.The car is a development of the rubbish design revolution started with the 7 series.The whole concept was in rush developped in a bank building in central London, because the designers wanted to ""observe the older rR cars in their natural space"". If they interpret the RR tradition this way, I really think they should go back to the university to read a book about the RR past. And to all of the people saying RR is an other car of the technical gizmos, equipment on a RR car was never a problem, providing you could pay for it!And that for decades!So read a book about RR dear friends and then take a look again on the car. Naturally it looks different as the opponents, but in the new BMW publicity frame,""bad news are good news"" that made and the 7 series.About its course in the market, wait a year.then make the comparison with the Maybach(of course looks like a better built S-Class), then you might find interesting conclusions!" |
| Wow |
| callum 5-2-2003 |
This car is really missing somthing. From the front, the headlight display is very weird and the grill is totally mis-proportioned. The interior is quite nice and looks fine - as always From the side the car reminds me of a hearse. Maybe BMW is driving RR to the grave? Overall a disappointment. Did anyone make a model of this thing? |
| regarding interior..... |
| motorhead 4-2-2003 |
I think if you compare the interior of the maybach and the new roller, the roller will deffinately win hands down. The maybach looks too much like an s-class but just a better built s-class and the only good thing is that piano wood trim which is very very black. Rolls and BMW used a totally different concept when they designed the interior. They wanted to use wood as you know a roller is not a roller if there is no wood and then there are those metal bits that really juxtapose with the wood. I think this is the only production car that has a better interior then the Audi A8 but then overall would rather take the A8!!! |
| the most luxurios |
| beef 4-2-2003 |
this is the best car ever!!!!look at the design i dont know how u people say its ugly its different than other cars +its all hand-made it looks better than a maybach from the outside and from the interior if i only have the money.:)thx to BMW |
| Bastard Stepchild |
| tankyank 30-1-2003 |
Snout by Lady Penelope Creighton-Ward. Profile by the ghost of Elwood Engle. Boot by American Ford F-Series puckup truck out of Hyundai Grandeur/GX30. Gargantuan, garish, glitzy, gratuitous: the gentry should love it. Bet they sell all they choose to build. More's the pity. |
| GREATEST EVER |
| CANTHOLDtheSAK 28-1-2003 |
For all of you who think this car is ugly,you all are dull minded.This car has a break through design that lives up to the name of Rolls Royce.It looks like no other car out there and is different.It has a very powerful engine and has every luxery one could have in a car.I also agree with motorhead all of you should just drive it and see what you think of it then.This is about the greatest car one could have in his Garage.CHEERS TO YOU BMW,YOU KEPT IT REAL. |
| To all of yo saying this a Rolls, made in GB! |
| george_m 22-1-2003 |
"I am translating exactly what is written in the german Auto Motor und Sport, Germany's most known car magazine! ""If the bones of Sir Henry Royce, who died in 1933, would now turn around in his grave, noone knows. The genes of the car come from Germany.The car commes from Germany.It was develpooed from BMW, BMW constructs the mechanical parts, BMW ownes Rolls-Royce.The british contribution is concentrated in putting together the parts and in the leather and wood furnishings. The last is an art, which the english people know very wel"". At an other part:""The aluminium space frame and the chassis is being produced in Dingolfing(BMW Plant in Germany)"". Enjoy Ladies and Gentleman the ""british"" BMW. It makes no differnce if the company is owned or not by the original owners or an other company. Aston-Martin and Jaguar prove that they can go ahead with respect to the past.It has to do how much its products are related to the roots and tradition if the company. It the ""german"" or BMW interpretaion version of what RR is. Totally irrelevant as the latest desin lines of BMW company prove. So, I hope you realise the past of RR is thrown in the rubbish.I only hope Bugatti will in a couple of years put in limited production the EB218, because only then I will find something relly astonish1ng!" |
| 21st century...... |
| motorhead 22-1-2003 |
It is something BMW is thinking about when they make their production cars. Normally car companies think that their car would have more attention and look nicer if they make their cars look like classics. BMW has a totally different approach and they are using that approach on the cars which are under them. The roller is undistinguishbly a roller That oversides grille and that roller shape. One fellow stated that this is the 21st century and car designers have to design in a 21st century way and not a the 18th century way!! |
| Its not that German... |
| gnuffo1 21-1-2003 |
...it was designed in Britain by a British person and is assembled by hand in Britain. It might use a few German components, but so what? As for its looks, it's not ugly, it looks sort of quirky, which gives it character. |
| what do you want now? |
| carmaniac 21-1-2003 |
people have always been complaining about rr because they don't have enough hp. there it is 453 hp, 720 Nm stong car. design isn't like we're used to se by rr, but its compeditor maybach looks like crap. i'd rather have this than maybach. rr are the most luxurious cars in the world(so are bentleys). hello maybe you don't realize that we are in the 21st century. things are changing. rr is changing, it can't keep that old design. its been in production for a long time. this is a great car and i'm proud that its Rollse Royce. |
| days gone |
| crisis 20-1-2003 |
Those of you who rue the lack of synergy with previous RR designs are longing for the past. Like so many marques they are no longer owned by companies in their original country let alone by the original owners. How can companies that run from balance sheets build anything out of pure passion of nostalgia. Enjoy it while Ferrari is still owned and built in Italy. Remember what Chrysler did with the US Countachs when they had their fingers in them. It wont be long before the likes of GM, BMW etc own everything. |
| Is it a Rolls? |
| george_m 13-1-2003 |
"I read the comments on everyday basis, so I am starting to become irritated by those who think Rolls-Royce suddenly waked up from past. What is british on that car and what elements of RR' s cars has it got. What is clearly a RR is the leather and wood and the atmosphere in the interior.Everything else come from an other planet.It is irritating ugly, big and bad designed. The typical aura, the style that made RR cars distinguish and fasinate has gone once and for all.You all forget something. You keep praising the techno-gismos etc, but noone ever brings up that when someone wanted to buy a RR and had the money, equipment was never a problem. As long you paid,the people at RR were able to fulfill every wish!Eventhough the Silver Seraph had a BMW ebgine, it was the last true Rolls. I hope the next model will be more close to the ""genes"" and tradition.To those who still like it, just take a book about the past model of the RR and read or to see what is really elegant, find a picture of a RR CloudII or III and then make comparisons! """ |
| How can this thing ever be called Retro? |
| IBrake4Rainbows 13-1-2003 |
this thing is if anything postmodern, never retro. As i have constantly pushed in my previous comments, the New Phantom bears no relation other than name and Badge to the Famous Phantom of the bygone era. Rerto occurs when the desiger harks back to an era of greatness for that certain cars Badge, when it was at it's Pinnacle in style, and for suire the Old Phantom deserved going back in time to go retro on it, but i tink this interpretation deserves to be placed in the (rather Large) skip bin. |
| for ATC |
| ralliart77 12-1-2003 |
ATC, u certainly have no idea about the nomenclature that RRs have always followed. Right from the pre war era, theve always named their cars on spirits and entities of the netherworld. The reason i feel is simple. These cars have been huge, exclusive, silent monsters that always held everyone in awe, just like the T-rex, whales, the abominabe snow man or the UFOs to name a few. They instill fear in the minds of a cipher but yet they have a majestic aura about themselves that trnsfix and hypnotise all. The huge grill, the monsterous size and deathly silence with which they carry themselves about can be compared to one traversing through a haunted castle being followed by a spirit. The Phantom in fact is not a new name, neither is the shape a coincidence. This is a retro syled car just like the 02 thunderbird, the vision SLR the 04 mustang which represents according to me the most amazing RR ever...the Phantom VI. |
| i-drive???? |
| motorhead 12-1-2003 |
this roller has i-drive people. The i-drive in the new 7 is called version 1.0 but this is version 2.0. Insiders claim that it is much better and easier to use than the first i-drive. It uses audis MMI(YAY!)layout. There are buttons for the features buyers use most of the time like aircon/climate control and radio settings. The more complicating features(suspension level and ride)are all installed in the on board computer. The screen is hidden behind the wood in the dash and the knob is in the armrest. I think back occupants will have a i-drive of their own too. This roller is not only beautiful and good but it is also technologically advanced too which is not common in most rollers. Three cheers to BMW!! |
| Respectful to the company? |
| IBrake4Rainbows 12-1-2003 |
"Motorhead, the only way something like this abomination would be respectful to rolls royce is if they ripped the silver wraith off the front and re-badged it as an upmarket Daewoo. the wheelhubs are nothing more than a cruddy gimmick and obviously it works for small minded people like yourself. I do admit the BMW Mini is an advancement over the old one, but only because they didn't do something they call here as ""Modern Retro"" that is, make something retro appear modern. The Mini is retro for the hell of retro, and is not in any way, shape or form a car which oozes britishness. Add a union jack on the top maybe, but in reality it is nothing more than a precursor to the new 1-series by BMW. No doubt they'll make that look ugly too.""" |
| If You had The Money? |
| Carboy45 12-1-2003 |
"I have come to the conclusion that somebody involved in the creation of this beautiful beast saw the silly suspense film ""THE CAR!"" and was influenced by its tall menacing presence while it raced towards it's victims (full screen towards you and me). That aside... if one were as wealthy as a Sir Cliff Richard or a Kennedy, Gibson or even a Windsor, wouldn't you buy one anyway? If you had the loot? Be Honest... Ugly is one thing. Other people's impressions yet another. And sheer excessiveness and being able to participate in that activity is another still. """ |
| BMW has done a great job |
| narayan 10-1-2003 |
people be serious, have you seen anything as good as this car ever? its a real rolls and it has the best possible tech. Prticulary the engine. |
| Hush puppies . . . |
| kudosdude 10-1-2003 |
"I lived just a few miles down from a ""quality"" car dealer that has sold RR ""coaches"" for many years, be they new or old. I have never been a fan of Rollers, prefer Bentleys Old boy (or would be had I the money), and, to be honest, I have always hated the looks of any roller built after the 70's. Nothing has changed, I cannot stand this design at all. I'd like to justify my above ramblings by pointing out that, as a Bentley/Aston Martin fan, the fact I dislike this car is probably a good thing. It's horses (shirehorses?) for courses . . . and just so you know, the English Royal family is of German decent, kind of funny how Germans have gone English and our cars are going German. PS. As most Rollers eventually end up as Wedding cars (and wedding cars are white), does any-one else think this car would look even more PimpMobile in white? Boyakasha ?""" |
| Leave them alone motorhead |
| mkone 10-1-2003 |
Seriously, people do not know what it takes for a car to be a Rolls Royce. This is supposed to be a collectible car, not something you just replace as and when you feel like it. Its design is not supposed top scream out '2003'. It is supposed to be timeless. The Maybach doesn't even look as good and shouts out, 'concieved in teh 90's'. It is stuck in the present and a few years from now it will be looking outdated and out of place. Same goes for the new Continental. The Phantom has all the makings of a Rolls Royce. It shouts out from a mile away, 'I am a Rolls Royce'. All the luxury touches say, 'This is a Rolls Royce'. I bet the folks at Daimler are worrying about how their order books will look like a year from now. It looks like no otehr car on the road. The Maybach looks like an overblown S class. It looks like a Mercedes Benz. It does not have its own character. This is what BMW is good at. Bringing that DNA out. The Silver Seraph was a good car, but it looked like a Bentley. VW had all but killed off Rolls Royce, to top it off, they gave the Queen (probably) her very first Bentley. I am sure they are shocked out of their wits. Some people may not like Bangle, but I think he is good at attacking those norms in car design and is not afraid to against the flow. A a result, BMW car are more individual looking than just about any other mass marketed cars on the planet. |
| Beauty Lies in the eyes of the beholder |
| helloworld 10-1-2003 |
Well..after reading all the comments from you all. Everybody is right in your own way I guess as beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. Well, in my own opinion, the Rolls Royce Phantom is a beauty in its own right and its design though boxy is exclusive. I can see that BMW hs tried its best by incorporating the latest technology from themselves into the Phantom. At least the engine is the fastest from Rolls (i guess). The silver seraph was heavily critised for being cramped at the back though it is more curvy while the new Phantom is grand...dun u think? Well..let not judge a car based on just looks alone..shall we? |
| this is the same as the mini....... |
| motorhead 10-1-2003 |
"both cars were made by BMW and both look fantastic. I bet you people like the mini a lot so why don't you all like this. This was made with the same frame of mind as the mini; to change the way they design cars. That self leveling hub feature is to show respect the company. Let me tell you all another feature the roller has the kicking of luxury ass feature!""" |
| Appeal? |
| GTS25t 10-1-2003 |
Obviously the people who have commented negatively on this car find it not in the least bit appealing. I'd say fair enough to that, however I can forsee that there will be people who would find this design appealing. Not everyone likes low, curvy organically inspired designs, which is why this car does not look like an XK180, S-Class or a Maybach. It's a Rolls, looks like nothing else on this planet and will certainly have a high level of exclusivity. I imagine that BMW are not trying to appeal to everyone with the design of this car. Someone said that it would be like cruising around in a castle. Well certainly castle owners are a target market and many of them would see the appeal of driving around in a castle-like vehicle. It's certainly not to my taste and I can never imagine myself wanting one, however I can appreciate what appeal it does have and for what type of person. It's markedly different from the other alternatives available (especially the shapeless Maybach) and that distinguishment in itself may be more than enough for the Phantom to win over buyers sick of the generic organicky blobs that overcrowd the current market. The people who will buy this car don't want their choice in vehicle mistaken for any other vehicle. The Phantom is unmistakeably a Rolls Royce in design despite the way the design has been interpreted. It's distinguished itself and has a clear statement of personality in it's form, regardless of anyone's personal approval of the way it has done so. |
| Good Point On The SIze |
| IBrake4Rainbows 9-1-2003 |
Well spoken Henk. I have actually found a few cars (suvs, anyway) that have self Levelling hubs, albeit on the front wheels. Car such as the Nissan Terrano 11 (Pathfinder) and i think even the Tahoe that i've seen around town has them, they are not unique, however necessary. |
| other gadgets |
| henk4 9-1-2003 |
With some reluctance I have to join the numerous people who are constantly picking on poor motorhead. He obviously is serious about thinking that self leveling wheelhubs are what the world needs. May I propose a few other breakthroughs. The right head light will wink as soon as it recognises its owner, the exhaust will start to waggle, knowing that its going to be taken for a ride and the the car will bow three times (should be easy with the air suspension) to acknowledge you as his master. By the way is the spare wheel fitted with such a monumental hub as well? |
| they got the wrong Ian! |
| Supercharged 9-1-2003 |
instead of hiring ian cameron to design this car, they should have gotten Ian Callum!!!! Ian Callum is reponsible for the lovely aston martin DB7 and the gorgeous vanquish! as well as being responsible for jaguars sexy R coupe concept and the XK180. His cars are works of art , and from his designs you can tell he truly knows how to to create a modern car ,yet stay true to the heritage and tradition of those presigious marques. |
| Staggeringly bad!! |
| brams 9-1-2003 |
Top prize for making the most hideous car in the history of the automobile. Did BMW also buy MACK trucks and get them to design this for them? I'm confident in the continued success of Bentley after seing this piece of crap! |
| wheelhubs 2 |
| henk4 9-1-2003 |
As this thing has the size of a truck then the self levelling wheelhubs are totally appropriate. I cannot wait to see a SUV version of the car. |
| yes it is a big deal........ |
| motorhead 9-1-2003 |
has any other car have that feature, no. So there is something great there. That shows how much BMW respects rolls royce too. Their own cars do not even have that feature. Anyway the whole car is just a technological break through. |
| Save the tradition! |
| george_m 8-1-2003 |
"I cannot believe that I still read comments in favour of the Phantom. The Queen herself should sue the Germans for destroying all what the former ""jewellery"" of the British Automobile Industry!The specific car has nothing to do with a Rolls-Royce!I could understand it if it was constructed from Caterpillar(!)[a dozer has the same cv], but not from Rolls. All the cars so far from Rolls-Royce were big, impressive had a finesse and an unmistaken style, typical for Rolls. the new car with the ""suicide doors"", the long bonnet, the place of the headlights and the back bonnet is a tribute to the Phantom Limousines, but they have gone totally out of proportion. The car, instead of a clean and ""light"" design line in style of the Silver Seraph, has turned out a buble, or better an armoured tank.Please is anyone in position to stop it before it goes to production?I cannot believe that there will be people to buy it.Someone should sabotage the deliveries!Or better send the whole design team from BMW/Rolls-Royce home before they turn both companies to a gost of their glorious history! """ |
| Big deal |
| IBrake4Rainbows 8-1-2003 |
They have those sorts of things on trucks, there called self-levelling hubs, get over it henk4. there nothing special or anything other than a little gimmick. |
| wheelhubs |
| henk4 8-1-2003 |
I read that after this car has come to a standstill (stopped is an inappropriate word here) the wheelhubs keep on turning until the RR logo is shown vertically. I would consider this a major breakthrough in automotive design, which of course reduces all the comments made about the size and shape of the car to irrelevant. |
| Gone Is The Grace |
| silvawraith2 8-1-2003 |
"I saw this new Rolls-Royce at a secret preview over the summer. Having been involved with these cars for over forty years, I was appalled at the lack of finesse in the design. The car is HUGE, which makes one wonder how owner-drivers are going to be able to easily thread their motor cars through traffic. Afterall, the turning circle on a Silver Shadow was just one foot larger in diameter than a VW Beetle of the period. I can see what BMW were trying to achieve, but they missed it. Not only in terms of design, but in the era they were looking to, and in the fit and finish. I certainly don't expect to see seams around the window frames or anywhere on the body on a Rolls-Royce. That is obvious cost-cutting, which is unforgiveable on a car like this. Happily, they have played down the gadgetry bit and left that to Maybach -- a car no one could accuse of being beautiful. (Perhaps it will really boost the sales of the top S-Class models ...) Rolls-Royce Phantoms, with the exception of some New Phantom dropheads and Phantom II Continentals, were primarily intended to be chauffeur driven. Certainly I would have expected a Silver Something for this car (actually I had guessed Silver Phantom, so I wasn't far off the mark). Rumour has it that the new Corniche, which will be as huge, will be a Dual-Cowl Phaeton because wind-buffetting is so severe on such a large car. Surely all that pre-WWII retro bit is beneath RR, and is best left to pseudo-classic brands such as Excaliber? Well, BMW has the name, and if they really believed they had ""one chance to get it right"" they were wrong.""" |
| Motorhead, you poor sad case |
| IBrake4Rainbows 8-1-2003 |
"You do not see what i am talking about, do you! I don't care what size the wheels are, whether they are 21 inches or 15 inches, i am not a fan of the big giant wheels you see in gansta rap filmclips, i am a whiteguy ferchrissakes! I am simply saying the design of them looks cheap and nasty, like somehting i've seen on a Honda Civic from the 80's. the DBA sees you're so called ""Best Designer""differently. All of his works have been controversial, and can never be called classic, maybe differing from the norm. Case in Point: The Fiat Coupe. with it's slashed flanks, it was a different take on the Coupe idea, and i admit i find it intersting, but i could never find it beautiful. Bangle is Bungling all the designs he touches, from his retro phase through to his flame surfacing, you can never call him one who sees beauty. We are coming to a time in the Car Design world were someone like bangle can survive because he confronts the customer, you either like it or you hate it, Period. obviously you are the former, i am the latter and i hope that his drawing hand falls off from rsi.""" |
| ibrakeforrainbows...... |
| motorhead 8-1-2003 |
if you have a club i am having one also. It is called the RBC(Respect Bangle Club) You and your club basically just do not see the good things in design in fact everything he designs are much better than anything else. About the wheels of the roller. You can always make this roller a low rider if you are not happy and add monsterous five spoke alloys which are at least 21 inches. ANd if you are not happy with the interior you can take all the wood out and add carbon fibre, titanium, alluminium or even leather. Maybe the queen should try that if she ever buys this. |
| The Bangle Bungle. |
| IBrake4Rainbows 8-1-2003 |
"Now i freely admit to being an avid memeber of the ""Destroy Bangles Abominations""club. But i don't think he had anything to do with the styling (or lack there of) of this new Phantom. us members of the DBA are in agreeance that he did have an influence however.For Example: the aerodynamic bootline that is all but cancelled out by the upright front end pushing through the air rather than cutting, thus rendering it absolutely useless.the write up on this pages states, and i quote ""the designers immersed themselves in RR's history"". Is it just me, or do others see that there is absolutely NO link between the new Phantom and the old Phantom. The DBA are also in agreeance that Bangle, and all the other designers working at BMW/RR, need to be quietly pushed out the back door, and ones brought in who actually know style and substance. So as not to screw up the BMW/RR design scrolls that so many hold dear.Details are what always catches my eye, and the RR has plenty, that catch it for the wrong reasons. the Sunken in headlamps are not only meant to be going outwards, but are also the wrong shape to be a so called ""reminiscant RR"". they are in complete contradiction the the classic grille. the wheels look cheap and nasty, something which i think always set off a cars design. the DoorHandles are a neat touch, but i've also seen the design on the new Peugeot 807 van.the worst aspect of the car i believe is the fat c-pillar that completely makes the car look rear-heavy, something which owners may not want to be reminded of. and the rear lights are too small for the body. Now, theres my two cents, i feel better now.""" |
| hey!!!!! |
| motorhead 7-1-2003 |
Chris Bangle has got nothing to do with rolls royce when final product is concerned so stop puting all the blame on him and BMW. If BMWs are not the ultimate beauty machine they are deffinately the Ultimate Driving Machine so before you all say anything bad about this roller i recommend you people who hate this car to drive it first then comment and i bet all your comments will be how good the balance, ride quality, refinement and handling of this roller is because of its fine chassis from BMW and yes the most important thing.........the fantastic engine!!!! |
| for unknown and everybody who hates this beauty! |
| motorhead 7-1-2003 |
this roller was not designed by bangle entirely. Bangle just gave the roller's cheif desinger a few tips, in other words he influenced this car to a certain extent. Why would you disrespect bangle if he had designed this roller?? This roller is the best yet in terms of style and i really do not see why users hate this car so much except for a few. Cars desinged by bangle are really nice but most people do not like it because they are so used to the old looks of BMWs. Once they see a retro car coming out of BMW, thats it, they will hate it forever. That is utter nonsense!! BMW did not buy rolls royce for destroying purposes they bought rolls because they wanted to make an impact on them and the cars which they produce. VW has actually the same reasons for buying bentley. I am really happy rolls royce and bentley were separated because if they were not, there will be more bricks coming out of Crewe. Like i always said... good job bangle!!! |
| The styling on this car is a mess. |
| Verg 7-1-2003 |
It seems to me that BMW gave the stylists the task, back in 1998, of capturing the essence of the old pre WWII Rolls-Royce while updating the look with inspiration from BMW's new styling direction - awkward unresolved edginess. No doubt, back then they probably figured that the world would fall in love with their unconventional new shapes. The end result to me is an ugly German caricature of an honourable English icon - an insult to the history and tradition of the company that until last week, was Rolls-Royce. |
| a brick and the queen........ |
| motorhead 7-1-2003 |
do they have anything in common, simple answer....yes. The queen always chooses bricks and she does not even have good taste. It is time for her to learn thet rollers are not bricks on four wheels. She was cruising around in a bentley because she got soooooo sick of rollers but wait till she sees this she will get the shock of her life. She would deffinately say this is the most beautiful roller i have ever come across in my life. Wait till she steps into the interior then she will faint. Jalex has a good point there by saying that BMW don't kid around. If BMW wanted to detroy roller they would not have bought them in the first place!!! |
| to motorhead |
| Unknown 7-1-2003 |
This car wasn't designed by Chris Bangle... was it? I personnaly liked his designs, but if he is responsible for this automotive annomally, then I will lose respect for him... |
| This is the car i dreamed of ! |
| tonidalli 7-1-2003 |
"all of you guys saying this is not a rolls maybe you re right. this car is much better!!! I dont give a ...k about that this car is not original british. you cant close your eyes in front of one fact : the germans(bmw) produce the best cars in the world (not only) this days. and this one is the best what bmw can build this days! and you get the design the luxury and all the ""tradition"" of an (original)no doubts legendary rolls. in my opinion bmw rescued this firm like they rescued range rover mini and maybe rover. do you really think the british would ever sell their carproducer to germans if they could survive on their own ? the new range rover mini and this dreamcar was a really good piece of work in my opinion. the only negative point on: the bangle design makes me sad. X5 7er are not the best designed cars but i cant say the same to the british cars designed by bmw.""" |
| Incredibly ugly |
| Rataman 6-1-2003 |
It is amazing how Chris Bangle and BMW have teamed up to destroy a hard earned reputation. First the latest 7 series, which with its odd, distasteful styling and flawed and annoying i-Drive, led the way to the disastrous Z4. Now this. I can't find words to describe how repulsive this cars is. A disgrace to the RR marque. We can only wonder what will come next... Sorry Chris, but BMW must fire you at once, before you can do any more damage to it. |
| Please try to learn something more... |
| jalex 6-1-2003 |
Sorry, folks. As much as I respect different opinions, I just think you should learn a bit more about cars before you jump to conclusions. BMW is, in my opinion, the most complete car brand in the world and doesn't kid around. Just take a look at all the interesting points in any BMW car before anything else. What other constructor has a close to 50/50 weight distribution on all its cars, cleans up prizes every year and all over the world for its engines and design, is allways creating impressive solutions as valvetronic and the new variable geometry intakes of the 7series' V8s... I could go on forever!! Please stop speaking without knowledge. (Don't mind the rusty english...) |
| freak!!!! |
| Supercharged 6-1-2003 |
motorhead i think you have totally lost the plot!. look mate i didnt say i done love rolls any more i said i jus lost that respect that i once had for them. meaning bmw have made good ole rolls into a cheap mockery of them selves. And another thing the queen has good taste and would neva be seen in a vehicle that resembles austin powers's time machine!!!( anyone whos seem austin powers goldmember will know wot im talkin about lol) The queen prefers bentleys !! its official!! on her 50th anniversery she toured around in a custom made bentley!!!rather then a rolls royce! I think you hit the nail right on the head when you said the reaction people get when they see a BMW rolls.......it does look like its from another planet( this by the way isnt a good thing!) |
| to davut...... |
| motorhead 6-1-2003 |
you are all wrong. Actually a lot of SMART people like the designs of Bangle. He is just so brave and daring to come with these kind of things. he will actually boosts sales for BMW as their cars do not look like anything else in the market and they have a class of their own in terms of designing. Roller wants to sell 800 units a year and i think they will sell about 1500 units a year because this will be in such great demand because buyers are getting sick of the silver seraph and rollers which look like bentleys or bentleys which look like rollers which ever way you look at it. This phantom would really change the way people look at rollers but basically BMW is changing everything especially the image of companies under them and i really respect them. THEY ARE VERY POWERFUL!!! |
| So deceiving |
| Evolution 6-1-2003 |
BMW , I think you killed something very precious ... What you tried to do is clear , just like Ford remade the GT40 and the Thunderbird , you wanted to give a second life to the magnificent Phantom of yesteryear ... But great things only happend once ! You can't make a 2003 phantom , it is against all logic. I thought the Seraph was a jewellery .. It was great. you killed her . I think Rolls lovers will be very disappointed . One thing to do : BMW will lose a lot with this model . As soon as you lose many many $ , plz sell back Rolls Royce to the british thanks . |
| power..... |
| motorhead 6-1-2003 |
this thing accelerated in 5.7sec. That is fast for a 2900kg beauty. it may have the heaviest(i think) engine in the world and may have only 435hp but it accelarates in 5.7sec(WOW!!) I though it was going to as slow as a fiesta. Power is not the thing here it is the style and the grace of the car which counts. twinturbos comment was good and you all shoud read it carefully and maybe, just maybe you all will change your thoughts of this roller. Bangle is not screwing BMW, he is just making them better. If you have read my comment properly you all should have relise that i see a 7 series every 10min here. People are realising that if they continue hating BMW they are going to get no where. |
| this, agressive!!!!!!! |
| motorhead 6-1-2003 |
crazy fellow. I think the other rollers espcially the silver seraph looks much more ageressive than this. This looks really clean and elegent especially with the huge grill and small lights. There is basically nothing wrong with BMW or its design. There is something wrong with all your eyes except my eyes and twinturbos96's eyes. This car is really lovely. Roller copied bentley, never! The new contienetal gt by Bentley and Vw is bit weird in design but very powerful. Now the new phantom by roller and BMW looks fantastic but it is not powerful and by the way when were rollers powerful. The queen and other buyers would certainly love the new roller. Supercharged you are the worst person on this website. First you love rollers then you hate rollers. I myself use to respect rollers but did not like them but now i absolutely love them. I hope the next roller will be bangle designed. it is just so interesting to just look at his cars. do you know what type of stares you get in a bangle design car. They stare at you like you and your car like you or your car are from another planet and that feeling is good. nowdays BMWs really stand out and with that i salute BMW! |
| Surprise!!! |
| davut 6-1-2003 |
The biggest surprise I found here is that THERE ARE ACTUALLY A FEW THAT LIKES IT!!! No offence there. For ppl who said they like this car because it was designed by BMW: It'll take BMW a few tries to make something different and good looking right? Similarly, it will take BMW to make a few MORE ugly cars to ruin its reputation and to turn the fans away. If you BMW fans want to save BMW, why don't you ppl petition Chris Bangle out of his position. |
| A reply to the short novel from: ralliart77 |
| CaneMan 6-1-2003 |
"I feel you are the one to be completely mistaken and you in no way were able to help me out of the misery after I saw the abomadation called 'Phantom.' I do agree the name isn't a coincidence; but no way does it even resemble the P-VI. Limo's from Rolls in the past were both 'beauty' and great, practical, vehcles. This Phantom model is an attempt by BMW to do what? Taste and social standing? You are kidding, aren't you? No, as a former owner of a P-V, I have to condem BMW for their lack of understanding how to manufacture a true Rolls! I appeal to BMW to make this a concept which won't make it to the showroom floor. PLEASE!!!!! """ |
| My worst fears! |
| george_m 5-1-2003 |
"As I saw the car, tears came in my eyes.My worst fears came true!I couldn' t believe what I saw.I cannot believe in what a pitty Rolls-Royce ended up to. Rolls for me was the last part of an era, a symbol of elegance and the absolute top of the luxury cars.It was already difficult to accept a few years that one of the few things that for me represented England were so easily given to Germans.Although the Silver Seraph was from the technical side a BMW 750i,it had still this class, the style that mde it clear that it was a Rolls, it reminded me a bit the RR Silver Cloud 3.The new one has nothing to do with what Rolls Royce represented. It is a ""Panzer"" or a tank or as many said it a truck!It could be also easily seen as one of the ugliest american limouzines.What has been left from the good old days is the Conolly leather and the quality in the interior.And an advice, to all friends of the firm, if you want a Rolls, buy a Corniche or a Bentley Arnage Red Label! """ |
| i only have a few qualms.... |
| IBrake4Rainbows 5-1-2003 |
about the styling of this car. One, the fat rear c-pillar, not only a good view blocker, but looks totally out of place with the rest of the car. 2) the sunken in headlamps and upruight grille. I know it is a RR trademark, the grille, but it again looks out of place with such a so-called Modern design. the cabin of the car looks exceptional, and no doubt will be done to RR standards, and i do like most of the styling, but i find the mix of rectangular headlamps/taillamps to square grille and a half decent glassline, to be a little bit off centre with me. |
| i agree with 959911 |
| Supercharged 5-1-2003 |
i used to admire and respect rolls royce ,but now its lost sense nobel aristocratic pride it once had ,this car has now lost its noblity, its about as british as munich!!...the only people who admire it are americans. |
| What the... |
| Subwoofa 5-1-2003 |
You people are sayin Rolls Royce copied Bently? Hellllllll no! Its the opposite man!!! I may be wrong but still, it is more logical if Rollers copied Bently. And on the other hand, BMW did a good job on this car, you clownz just don't see it. Watch, i think all you guys will have a new found love for this car...its a beauty. |
| Sigh |
| Unknown 5-1-2003 |
"Just because it wears the Rolls Royce badge, doesn't automatically put it in some high position. Fact is, the design is crap, or at least, could've been a lot better. Motorhead- it's my opinion that the Rolls looks like a boat with brick treatment. The thing is, I'm not the only person who feels this way. And to all you who dislike the 7 series and say, ""Gee, didn't BMW learn from the 7 series that this new design direction is wrong?"" Well, let me tell you this: From what I remember, the new 7-series sold rather well, even better than its predecessor. In comparison to this Rolls, the BMW is a well-rounded work of art. The only thing that bothers me about the BMW 7-series is the fact that the back looks too much like a previous-model Ford Escort... creepy...""" |
| BMW the most uncool car in England |
| 959911 5-1-2003 |
I was horrified to see what BMW did with the new Rolls Royce. I cannot believe that BMW could go so far off course in terms of styling. As others have said, and I must concur the Phantom is too massive, brick-like and just plain ugly. The classic Rolls Royce's of the past were always elegant never edgy or aggressive. Rolls is a gentleman's car always tasteful not an angry brick. The British nobility already by and large against foreign ownership of such an English icon and who tried to mount a bid so as to save it from the Germans must now be up in arms as there worst fears have come to pass.The British already angry and sore over the abandonment of Rover must be livid. I suspect that driving a BMW will now become quite uncool in the U.K. Mr. Bangle is single handedly destroying both BMW and Rolls Royce. Lastly I suspect that those comments in defense of the car were made by employees already fearing for their jobs or Americans who have already abandonded cars for trucks and believe that Rolls Royce has finally built a rival for the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade. America has no luxury cars of any importance and has long turned to Germany to supply them with class autos. |
| I'm With motorhead on this One |
| twinturbo96 5-1-2003 |
Why do the most of the other users on this website have to critize whatever BMW does. Granted, the Xactivity, Z4, and 7 series aren't works of art. First of all, the Xactivity is a concept car which in my mind was only trying to showcase new features and new capabilities (seats pressurised positioning, convertible like top). They took an, what I hope you agree with me, already good-looking X5 body, spruced it up a little to give it an eye-catching effect, and incorporated some new ideas into the design. Also, the Z4 and 7 series to me just seem like trying to be different from other luxury/sports cars on the road today. Sometimes not even a company such as BMW can come out with a different design and make it a work-of-are on its first try. Okay, now on to the Phantom. I'm haveing trouble making the connection between the Phantom and an 18-wheeler. The only resemblance that I seee is that they are both long. That's about it. You might as well say the same thing about the Maybach because it is probably just as long or even longer. I think that the styling is unmistakable and prestigous. Also, I'm sure that there will be some criticism on it's almost rediculous features (umbrella holder, the wheels returning to the center when the car is turned off, the RR on the wheels always remaining upright) but what can you expect with a car that the Queen of England will probably be riding in. I think that this new Rolls is unique, elegant, and represents the brand perfectly. |
| Oh my GOD |
| Double R 5-1-2003 |
BMW is the gravedigger of Rolls Royce. I'm close to tears .... BMW, I HATE YOU! |
| Goodbye Maybach!! |
| motorhead 5-1-2003 |
You guys always have a problem with the design from BMW. WHY!!! To me this roller looks fantastic! Finally you can differentiate a roller from a bentley. And Unknown, what the hell are you saying. If you have that kind of impression on the design of the roller it would look like a bentley and what rolls royce use to built and that was what BMW was trying to change and they have done it very well indeed. Take a look at the interior. It is pure roller but with a bit of help from BMW. There is wood and leather everywhere with the mix of metal and BMW technology, Perfect. Three spoke steering wheel looks fantastic and all the gagets and gizmos are still all there(A8 still better concerning interior). The other thing is the suicide doors. That was what BMW brought back from the rollers last time and to me that fits very well with the design. The only problem with the car is the power. Should they make a V16 or Twinturbo charge the V12 they have. The V16 would be very good but thses kind of cars will never and i mean never go above 180KM/h so there is no point puting a lot of power in the car. Buyers of this will not even care about the performance it is the ride which they want. It has to be as quiet or even quiet than the maybach. It has to be super confortable and i bet it will be. If god wanted the ultimate luxury car it would deffinately be this!!!!! |
| ENOUGH!!!!! |
| ralliart77 5-1-2003 |
"Im sorry but i personally feel that all of you are mistaken. I shall help all of you out of your misery once and for all. This car's name is no coincidence! It was purposely named the Phantom after one of RR's personal favourite success stories, the Phantom VI of the late sixties. Every line on this car is reminescent of the last of the era of Phantoms. Big with round headlights and every line as u see it on the '03 Phantom. True that this car is edgier than its predicessor but thats due to the effect of wind tunnel testing to reduce the cd. The long hood, the sloping boot and the tail-lights, all of them a 21st century representation of a classic. This car is a Rolls that is very worthy of the marque, and i would go as far to say that after nearly 25 years, the company has come up with a design so agressive that the ""spirit of freedom"" would stand up on the hood and look up at the sky with a feeling of pride. Lets be honest about one thing though. Limosines are not about beauty, not about practicality, but about a personal statement which goes out to the less fortunate of this world, that the person on that vehicle has taste and social standing that all covet but few achieive. Cars like the 7-series, A8, S-class, RRs, maybachs, Bentleys all send out a message.... Power. U cant fight it... the best u can do is accept it!""" |
| First the 7 Series, than this |
| escalade_189 5-1-2003 |
What is up with BMW? It's a disgrace to see Rolls ROyce's image out down to this level. It's like they took a big 18-wheeler, made it the size of a car, and put some Rolls Royce badges on it. I wouldn't be surprised if they came out with a pickup version of the Phantom. I thought BMW woulda learned after the 7 series that people don't like they're cars lookin like they were meant for an abstract art exhibot, or in the Phantom's case, the rich trucker's gala. I thought after the split between Rolls Royce and Bentley, new original ideas and concepts would come through each respective company. WHile Bentley has the gorgeous Contiental GT, Rolls Royce is stuck with their brick of a car. It's a disgrace, a real disgrace. Hopefully BMW will catch on and change the design on the Phantom. It looks like they had a good start, then ran out of time and tried to finish it in a hurry. Round out the edges, make the grille a bit smaller, and you'll have a better lookin car. And a final note, Bentley and Maybach should take advantage of this oppurtunity, their gonna have much better sales when disappointed Rolls Royce owners look somewhere else for luxury. |
| I like it =P |
| GTS25t 5-1-2003 |
... but then again I am quite fond of the BMW 7 series as well. There is a bit of ugliness about both cars, but to me that bit of ugliness gives it a little bit of brutality to it's lines... regardless of the aesthetic quality of the design, I feel this car will easily acheive the road presence that is vital to cars of this type. It's easily identifiable as a Rolls, undoubtedly modern, has uncluttered/very bold lines and will draw stares more than any modern Rolls placed next to it (regardless of the appreciation of the starer). Looks as though BMW have chosen to hold boldness over beauty with this car (likewise the 7 series) and for some reason I feel that their target market will be agreeable to this as their target market will most likely have something curvaceous sitting in one of their garages (read: they want people to know they have money). BMW have laid their intentions for the RR brand on the table for all to see. Best of luck to them. |
| They COULD fix the design.... |
| Unknown 5-1-2003 |
They could fix the design if they did the following things: 1. Made the grille smaller and added softer angles. 2. Enlarged the headlights and didn't make them sink in the way they do in this particular model. Those, in my opinion, are the main flaws of the design. Everyday I come here and look at the pictures hoping that what I saw the previous day left an innaccurate impression. Everyday, I am wrong. Does anyone know who was responsible for this design? Did that guy from Pontiac get hired at BMW? |
| Congratulations!!!!!!!! |
| Breistul 4-1-2003 |
Finally Rolls are back with a real Limo and not a copy of Bentley. We can now see a new aera and new models to come, the only thing it misses, are a V-16. Hope there will come more classics from Rolls. The critisism that are written by the others on this page are a pitty, but I think they not are up to date with the a classic like this. So I hope BMW and Rolls will prosper and be a good company finally. When up to 85% Bentley's and the rest were Rolls sold until now, it's a sign that something are wrong. So congratulations Rolls, you are on the move.!! This is a great Limo. Are sure there will come cabrio and coupe models that will combine classic and stylish elegant cars. |
| Sorry guys... |
| eXpert 4-1-2003 |
... But this car is toooooo cool! It's looks big, a bit angry and very massiv - like a castle! Just the way a RR should look. Con'grats' BMW! You guys made a worthy interpretation of the classic Rolls Royce. |
| PERSONALITY |
| Giorgio 4-1-2003 |
When you have the money to own such a car as this you expect personality. This new Rolls has a lot of personality. Also, traditional thinking was the key enemy of this company... This statement of boldness will appeal to many people around the world. I think that is a great design, perhaps lacking a little horsepower. |
| britain should sue BMW |
| Supercharged 4-1-2003 |
i saw this sad excuse for a rolls, and the words PIMP MOBILE! came to mind!!, the designers of this car were clearly influenced by the lowriders that pimps in the 1970s used to drive!! BMW hav seriously screwed up here!!, i was expecting something monumental from the same company that took a iconic car like the mini and updated it into a funky lil car for the modren age!!.........but nooooo wot we get is a brick on wheels!! rolls-royce is part of britains heritage!!,no other car is as quintisentially as english as a rolls royce!!......britain should sue BMW for turnin our pround and time hounered automaker in a joke!! |
| WHAT??? IT'S HORRIBLE! |
| V90 4-1-2003 |
I cand belive bmw can do this to us, it's the ugliest car in the world! |
| poor earl |
| henk4 4-1-2003 |
I don't envy the Earl of March, who is living so close to the factory that he is likely to see one these behemoths every day. Hopefully Mercedes will not use the Brooklands site to produce something similar. |
| designed by the wind? ^o^ |
| Outlaw 4-1-2003 |
"My God, sure I laughed a lot after taking a glance at those ""nice"" shots. I'm trying really hard to see the beauty of this car, but I think this time I won't make it ^o^ , and I guess when U spend all the money this four wheeled brick is going to cost U don't want to struggle that much to convince yourself it's worthy and good looking. This time they felt generous so they decided to put a full size greek temple in the front ...probably U could even drag a bull in and make a sacrifice to the deity of stupidity (the guardian god of this very RR model). I'm really curious to know the Cx of this car, I guess it's not far from that of a truck driving in reverse ...probably it's the first car ever to post a serious threat to the safety of Hummer H1 drivers ^o^ ...now, I'm looking forward for a RR SUV. Need to say more? Well this is probably one of the few vehicles that actually looks better after a crash test! Now, if U don't mind, I'll take another look, laughing makes me feel SOOOooooo good ^o^ !!!""" |
| Phantom or Maybach |
| davut 4-1-2003 |
This car is ugly, so is Mercedes' Maybach, but if you had to pick one, which one will you pick? I will take the Maybach, because since when can BMW compete with Mercedes in terms of making luxury cars? |
| Oh, god no |
| IBrake4Rainbows 4-1-2003 |
The new rolls royce. Meant to be graceful, elegant, swift, the embodiment of taste. What does BMW make it as? THE MOST GOD UGLY THING SINCE THE 7 SERIES. to BMW design, i hate you, i hate you with such a passion. |
| RR trys to compeat |
| bugatti1 4-1-2003 |
the only reason RR made this car is because they want to compeat againys the bently gt... but anyways its a nice car |
| Cut The Wrong Way |
| Jimothy_Jebus 4-1-2003 |
The boys at Bimmer sure messed up here. This is the ugliest massacre of the Rolls Royce name I have ever seen. All of the classic Rolls had a good design and have been very successful (considering their price tag) and were made by Rolls with care and with their own sense of style. Then bmw comes in and thinks that they know what the people want and give us this. The influence is obvious. I havent seen the interior very well, but there will most definately be some parts here from the Bimmer parts bin. And my god,those headlights. WHat were they thinking when they put on those babies. It was probably just a joke but someone forgot to take them off. I do hope this isn't the final product and there will be a little tweaking, I mean a lot of tweaking, before it goes out. |
| UGLY |
| ARTfull doger 3-1-2003 |
Seriosy this car is ugly the bently is far mor beautifull |
| Rolls Royce is DEAD |
| Edge 3-1-2003 |
Hard to say it, but true rolls royce cars are dead as we know it, the new phantom is probably the ugliest rolls ever produced. it's out of proportion in many ways, tiny lights and a huge body simply don't go together very well. where's the heritage in this thing? i thought heritage was supposed to be beautiful and irrisistable, rolls royce has an amazing heritage full of some of the world's most beautiful and flamboyant cars ever made. the grille is way too big, the front end looks like an suv (not that i have anything against SUVs, which i love) i have to agree that the interior is very well layed out and looks like what a rolls royce interior should be. the new phantom is what you get when you cross a bmw and a rolls royce (which is bad becuase i greatly dislike bmw especially it's 7 series. i'd deffinately go for the Maybach, it's a work of art and excellent taste and superior power train and craftsmanship. |
| A Phantom ! No WAY !!!!! |
| TheCaneMan 3-1-2003 |
"I had (and wish I still did have) a P-5; now, that was a vehicle worth having!!!! This is; by no means, a 'Phantom.'""" |
| What is wrong with BMW??? |
| Unknown 3-1-2003 |
Did Mr. Bangle have a hand in this too??? It looks horrible. The Bentley GT coupe, and soon-coming sedan, look way, way better than this. |
| Shaitan You Clown |
| Subwoofa 3-1-2003 |
I don't see how this beaut is ugly, it looks amamzing. Its the dawn of a new generation, it brings back sort of retro look. Who can even think a rolly is ugly...even if it was, the luxury of the car makes up for the car and everything about it! Good work RR!!! |
| Mr Wayne , your car has arrived ! |
| amenasce 3-1-2003 |
This car looks like it was designed by DC comics ! I like the interior a lot. The quality looks incredible.Something to confirm though. The exterior is very challenging , and it surely isnt as bland as the new bentley coupe . |
| Ugly |
| Shaitan 3-1-2003 |
this is ugly....it's too scared out, needs more luxurious curves.. |
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