Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection (United Kingdom, 2014)

Rolls-Royce unveiled the Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection to celebrate the waterspeed record achieved by Sir Malcolm Campbell in 1937 and to show the capacities of vehicle customization of the luxury brand.

The vehicle was unveiled to potential customers in the original site of Bluebird engine company, nowadays converted into a restaurant, where Rolls-Royce was able to show the range of options available so customers can bespoke their vehicles. The special edition has a limited production of only 35 units.

The car received a special blue paint color scheme inspired by Bluebird, a painting that also extends to the car's engine and 11 spoke alloy wheels.

Much of the interior Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection was covered in gray leather, with a Bluebird detail engraved in the center armrest. The vehicle also received special Abachi wood trim and the standard car displays have been replaced by graphics inspired by Bluebird. The design also extends to the steering wheel, which features blue accents combined with black leather.

The Waterspeed Collection keeps the 6.75-liter V12 engine from the Drophead Coupé, with 460hp and 720Nm of torque. The standard version accelerates to 100km/h in 5.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 240km/h.

For the creation of this new special edition Rolls-Royce was inspired by the waterspeed record set in September 1937 by Sir Malcolm Campbell. While attempting to break the record Campbell's Bluebird K3 hydroplane boat reached 208km/h. The boat was equipped with a Rolls-Royce engine.