Edition 36/2008 49.684 subscribers
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EDITORIAL
It's a great leveller, the Rolls–Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé. You sit high up, pupil–to–pupil with delivery men and mums in 4x4s on the school run. If the roof is down, you can even exchange pleasantries with workmen, passers–by and cyclists, too.
"Good morning madam, I like your sandals sir, and I say, you're doing a good job filling that hole in!"
Life's a better place from the seat of a Rolls–Royce — there's no doubt about that. One of the cleverer design aspects of the car tested this week is the way the company's made allowances for a little inclement weather: the seats lack pleats or piping, so can be wiped clean after a light dusting of rain.
There's also the (optional) oiled teak rear decking and, straight from a superyacht, sisal over–carpets.
"We didn't want owners to feel as if they had to pull over at the first spot of rain," said the car's designer, Ian Cameron. As the United Kingdom is suffering from rainfall of almost Biblical proportions right now, I didn't put this to the test.
However, as I say in the review, what better place — suitably clothed — for a gentle mid–winter amble, hood down in Provence or the English countryside?
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Steve Wakefield |
THIS WEEK IN CLASSIC DRIVER
Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead: A Very British CoupéThis is the quietest, smoothest car I have ever driven. Rolls-Royce states that there's a 6749cc V12 under the imposing bonnet: I shall take their word for it, as I will the presence of a six-speed transmission and, for that matter, four 21in alloy wheels shod with Goodyear rubber. read more... |
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Revival of the Lagonda MarqueLagonda will be reborn in 2009, the centenary year of the celebrated marque. Offering 'exclusive, luxurious and truly versatile' cars, the revived Lagonda will sit alongside its sportier sibling, Aston Martin, and produce high quality cars for both existing and emerging markets. read more... |
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Goodwood Revival 200819th to 21st SeptemberIt's now just two weeks till the Goodwood Revival (19–21 September) and time to get your skates on if you've not yet bought tickets read more... |
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Ferrari Racing Days 2008With Schumacher in the Ferrari CaliforniaThe 3rd to 5th October will see the tenth running of 'Ferrari Racing Days' at Germany's Nürburgring. A major attraction this year is the attendance of Michael Schumacher, presenting the brand-new Ferrari California. read more... |
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CLASSIC LIFE
Vertu Ascent Ti: Knurled and CheckedTwo new mobile handsets were added to the Vertu Ascent Ti Collection over the summer, the Ascent Ti Knurled and the Ascent Ti Checked. Both are inspired by the interior components of luxury sportscars. read more... |
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THE CLASSIC DRIVER PREMIUM CAR MARKET
MODERN
Porsche 911 (997) Turbo Tiptronic
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Porsche crests in seats, Electric seats, Sports chrono pack, PCM-sat nav, Telephone pre-wiring, 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel, Sunroof, Rear wiper arm, PSM, 19" Turbo alloys, Red calipers, 21,000 miles.
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Joe Macari Performance CarsTown/City: London, UK |
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CLASSIC
Ferrari 250 GT Lusso
colour Black |
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This stunning matching number example of the 250 GT Lusso is one of the best driving examples we have had the pleasure of offering. Lovingly restored from the frame up and is meticulously maintained throughout.
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Martin Chisholm Collectors Cars LtdTown/City:Cheltenham, UK |
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SPORTING
March 701 Formula 1Ex-Jackie Stewart
colour Blue |
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We are proud to March 701 chassis number 2 for sale. Chassis number 2 is the only March 701 to have won a Grand Prix, and was driven by F1 World Champion Jackie Stewart during the 1970 season.
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SpeedmasterTown/City: Bradford, UK |
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EVENTGUIDE 2008
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08.09. — 09.09. Barons 10th Anniversary - British Heritage + Classic & Collectors Motor Cars Auction, UK |
SERVICE
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