A year from reaching showrooms, Roll-Royce is reporting that its new Ghost has a power output of 563bhp (420kW) at 5250rpm, coupled to 575lb ft (780Nm) of torque available from 1500rpm. This will see the Ghost sprint to 100kph in just 4.7secs.
Gear changing is handled by an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox, and the top speed is limited to 250kph.
According to Rolls-Royce Director of Engineering, Helmut Riedl, Rolls-Royce power is entirely different to anything else in the automotive world. :First and foremost Ghost is a Rolls-Royce. This means that despite its extraordinary performance figures it has been engineered for effortless composure and refined power delivery. This is illustrated by the significant levels of low down torque available which makes pulling away very smooth and for an exceptionally relaxed driving experience,” he says.
Earlier this year Rolls-Royce confirmed that the Ghost will almost double production at the company’s factory in Goodwood in the UK and early reports suggest that more than 10,000 people have already expressed interest in the new model.
being an ‘entry-level’ Rolls, the Ghost will be smaller compared to the Phantom, measuring 5399mm in length, 1948mm across, and stand 1550mm in height. Its wheelbase will stretch 3295mm and seat five adults.
Rolls-Royce has also revealed that the car will make use of the very latest developments in chassis engineering, including a new four corner air suspension system matched to multi-link aluminum front and rear axle geometry. A new chassis management system will also be fitted and is designed to control the car’s anti-roll stabilization and the suspension stiffness to ensure the best possible comfort for occupants.
Customer deliveries of the Ghost in Europe will begin late in 2009 with pricing from £165,000 (approximately NZ$413,500) excluding taxes and delivery charges. Customer deliveries in other markets including the US and Asia Pacific region will begin from the second quarter 2010.
Read more on the development of the Ghost here.
