Time to swap and see it from the perspective of the man in front. The first thing that harks back to the days of classic Rolls-Royce motor cars and their immaculate finishing is the extensive wood trim — sourced from select trees and precisely matched to ensure symmetry and seamless design flow around the cabin. Apart from that, though, everything you see, from the clock to the trim accents, and everything you touch feels a class above and painstakingly crafted. So much so that they feel just as impressive on their own as they do as a part of the layout as a whole.
Another detail I’m not used to seeing is the ‘power reserve’ dial. Unlike a conventional tachometer, the Ghost and, in fact, Rolls-Royce cars, don’t count revolutions per minute. They simply display what percentage of the deluge is on tap by means of this dial. Start up the V12 and the short crank is followed by an even quicker spirited thrum which then settles into a silent idle. The power reserve at this point is 100 per cent.
Bringing the power is, of course, the N74 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 that strikes just the right balance between V12 aggression and subdued shriek together with unparalleled refinement, outside the car and inside it, respectively. The engine in the car, like you, is meant to stay cool as a cucumber and, thus, is in a relaxed yet potent state of tune. Peak power in here is 571 PS coming in at 5.250 rpm, with the now higher 820 Nm of peak torque arriving low at 1,500 rpm and staying well up till 4,000 rpm. The eight-speed automatic makes fascinating work of the ample twist and, in true V12 fashion, allows for effortless acceleration with a complete absence of contemplation. The Ghost will sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in less than five seconds. Also part of the equation is the satellite-aided transmission that uses GPS data to determine the car’s position and prepare the powertrain according to what lies ahead on the road. It maintains a steady power reserve for whatsoever may be coming up ahead.
In fact, the potency is not easy to explain. Now, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase weighs two-and-a-half tonnes, but when I put my foot down, I saw the reserve dial drop to 60 per cent as the car instantaneously lunged forward, even cosseting me deeper into the seat, settling down and collecting itself without a furrow of the brow as I lifted off. For most part, however, it’s a relaxed waft while feathering the throttle. It doesn’t need prodding and rarely will it be driven on the limit. Even so, it’s an energising feeling, knowing of its capabilities.
Furthermore, if you must ask, Rolls-Royce claim an efficiency of up to 10 km/litre on the highway and 5.8 km/l overall. The Ghost is designed to be the ultimate step in the world of automotive luxury. It’s a statement that not just looks exquisite but feels just as exquisite too. It stands apart, doubtless, yes, but it also stands the test of time. It personifies special.
Need To Know – Rolls-Royce Ghost Extended Wheelbase
Price: Rs 4.86 crore (ex-showroom, Mumbai, base price)
Engine: 6,592 cc, twin-turbo V12, direct-injection, petrol
Max Power: 571 PS @ 5,250 rpm
Max Torque: 820 Nm @ 1,500 rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed, automatic, rear-wheel drive
Weight: 2,450 kg
