Rolls-Royce has revealed its Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed collection to commemorate the water speed record set by Sir Malcolm Campbell in September 1937. Campbell's Bluebird K3 hydroplane boat, powered by a Rolls-Royce engine, had hit a new record of 208.4kph.
The new model, which was shown to potential customers on the site of the original Bluebird motor company in London, is designed to show off the range of custom-made options from which Rolls-Royce owners can choose to personalise their cars. The model was first previewed with a series of official design sketches earlier this year. Only 35 examples of the Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed will be made.
The car is finished in special blue paint inspired by the Bluebird’s colour scheme. The effect also extends to the car’s engine and the 11-spoke alloy wheels. The exterior also gets a Bluebird motif, while the Phantom Drophead Coupé’s teak decking has been replaced by brushed steel.
Grey leather adorns much of the cabin, the Bluebird motif is embossed on the centre armrest. Special Abachi wood also features on the inside. The standard car’s power dials are swapped for Bluebird-inspired graphics. The steering wheel features blue accents alongside black leather.
The Waterspeed car keeps the Drophead Coupé's 6.75-litre V12 engine for power, with 453bhp available alongside 73kgm of torque. The standard car is capable of hitting 97kph in 5.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 241kph.
Following its debut, the car will be taken to the shores of Lake Como in Italy, near to the site on neighbouring Lake Maggiore where Campbell set his world record.
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