2005 Rolls Royce Phantom Preview

The Phantom's additional options do not arrive without impacting the car's

The higher pricing won't slow sales: Rolls-Royce just delivered two Arctic White Phantoms to the 7-Star Burj Al Arab hotel. (Photo: Rolls Royce)

overall base price. Rolls Royce has adjusted pricing in all markets, upping the list price of the Phantom by an average of 1.8 percent. Broken down, this makes up for a 1.2 percent increase to E323,700 for European markets, and a hefty 2.7 percent increase to $328,750 in the USA. It's highly unlikely that the price increase will cause a Rolls Royce buyer to shop elsewhere, as buyers in this market are less price sensitive and more brand loyal than entry-level buyers.

Specifications:

• Price (base MSRP): $328,750
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, RWD
• Engine: 453-hp, 551 lb-ft of torque, 6.7-L, 48-valve, DOHC V12
• Transmission: 6-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Curb Weight (estimated): 5,478 lbs
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 16.2 cu ft
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 10 / 21 mpg
• Warranty (mo/miles): 48/unlimited comprehensive
• Direct Competitors: Bentley Arnage, Maserati Quattroporte, Maybach 57 / 62
• Web Site: www.rollsroycemotorcars.com