Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe (07 on) - Review

Is there a more comfortable place to spend time while on the move? Possibly only the interior of the Phantom saloon. The fully electric cashmere-lined hood keeps the cabin commendably free of wind and road noise and retracts inaudibly at the touch of a button to reveal a cabin that has ample room for four adults, but is not enormous given the exterior dimensions. Getting in means swinging back the rear-hinged door and stepping up into the high driving seat. Don't bother reaching for a handle to pull the door behind you, instead press the button and let the electronics do the work.

Any car that's nearly six metres long but which is beaten hollow for boot space by a Honda Jazz is never going to top a list of practical motors. The bootlid has an unusual design, the top opening first followed by the back section which folds down to create a seat for two. And if it wasn't for the standard parking sensors you might need to station someone there permanently to help park it. Even just threading your way through urban streets or country lanes demands some concentration. A big centre armrest provides useful cabin stowage and a small tray on the tunnel is perfect for mobile phones.

Life aboard the Phantom Drophead is unlike that in any other car. You only need to look at the beautifully stitched thin-rimmed wheel or gear selector quadrant to see that the interior styling is clearly influenced by classic Rolls models and the materials used are simply sensational. Even the woven floor mats are a work of art and the reserve power indicator fitted instead of a rev counter is a charming touch if pointless. You sit upright as you do at a dinner table in the incredibly comfortable chairs from a vantage point that gives a great view of the road beyond the famous flying lady.