PHANTOM HIRE'S BLOG

History – Showcasing The Different Models of Rolls-Royce

The development of the Rolls-Royce Ghost marks a huge step forward in the evolution of the company’s luxury models. Join us as we walk through the development of this incredible model, from the pre-production & development phases to the launch of the most recent Ghost Black Badge models.

Pre-Production & Development Phase (2006-2009)

It is the mid-to-late 2000s, and the iconic car company Rolls-Royce has developed a brand new business aim. They want to create a newer, smaller and less expensive model than the Rolls-Royce Phantom, but that would still exemplify the company’s signature style. By the time we get to the year 2007, development of a new Rolls-Royce Model was well underway, having been greenlit by its parent company BMW. 

2008 arrives, and early prototypes for a new Rolls Royce model were being put together and starting to be tested. This prototype was worked on under the name of the “Rolls Royce 200EX”. The first iteration of the Rolls Royce Ghost was publicly unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show to high praise from everyone who saw it. Now, it was time for the real work to begin.

Phase 1: The First Generation – Where It All Started

Ghost Series I (2009-2014)

The first generation of the Ghost was referred to as the “Series I”, and was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. Later that September, this iteration of the car then went on sale to the public at a shockingly low price of only 250 thousand dollars, which was seen as an extremely bold move. 

However, because the Ghost Series I was so much cheaper than more prestige vehicles like the Phantom, it presented itself as more of an “entry-level” Rolls-Royce; not as lavish or prestigious, but still evoking the signature premium feel of its more expensive cousins. 

This improved model also included several key features that would be unique to the Ghost, including:

• A twin-turbocharged V12 Engine
• 6 and a half litre fuel capacity
• Power levels of c. 563 and with a 780 Nm torque level

Additionally, the Series I Ghost was rooted in a design philosophy that places greater emphasis on effortless luxury and everyday usability – in other words, it was more likely to be driven by the owners of the cars themselves rather than by a chauffeur.  The Ghost was also deemed to be less formal than the Phantom (though just as luxurious), meaning that it could be targeted at a much younger clientele, who would be looking for something trendy and exciting. 

Ghost Series II (2014-2020)

It wasn’t long before the Ghost received a further update in the form of a brand new model, the Ghost Series II, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2014. The revised model was a gigantic success, becoming one of Rolls-Royce’s best-selling models of the era and becoming especially popular in emerging luxury markets such as China, the USA and the Middle East. 

This new iteration of the car includes several key updates, including:

• A revised front fascia with LED headlight and daytime running lights
• Enhanced suspension for better ride comfort and handling
• Updated infotainment system with improved tech integration
• Interior refinements (bespoke stitching, new trims)

Second Generation Ghost (2020–present)

The second generation of the Rolls-Royce Ghost was launched in September 2020, built on Rolls-Royce’s exclusive Architecture of Luxury – a bespoke aluminium spaceframe shared with previous models such as the Phantom 8 and the Cullinan SUV.

This model includes several unique innovations, including a micro-environment purification system, over 100kg worth of soundproofing material for privacy, and an Illuminated Fascia made up of 152 LEDs behind the Ghost nameplate. 

On top of that, the Second Generation also saw the Ghost’s interior get a complete redesign. The interior now featured a style that prioritised minimalism over extravagance, as it lacked the flashy details so often associated with other luxury vehicles. This change highlighted a change in focus for the Ghost: instead of prioritising lavishness, it placed a greater focus upon comfort.

Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge (2021–present)

Although the 2010s were ending and a new decade was near, the Ghost makers didn’t wait. They quickly developed the Ghost Black Badge, launched in 2021, aiming to attract younger buyers with a bold, high-performance design. Its edgier look and stronger dynamics, thanks to a powerful engine and agility, boosted its appeal.

Interior & Exterior Opulence

Exterior Design

The Ghost is an absolute masterclass in top-notch vehicular craftsmanship. The car boasts a striking exterior design that is very pleasing to the eye and aligns with modern expectations of a luxury sedan. Moreover, the Ghost features the iconic Pantheon Grille and Spirit of Ecstasy emblem that all Rolls-Royce models are recognised for. 

Interior Design

The attention of every individual is immediately drawn to the handcrafted interior of the Rolls-Royce Ghost as soon as the coach doors are opened. Upon entry, you are surrounded by only the highest of quality materials like the natural soft grain leather seats and deep pile lambswool rugs which encourage you to immerse yourself into the luxury provided by the Rolls Royce Ghost. As well as comfort, the Ghost comes with the visually pleasing starlight headliner, which illuminates your experience while imitating a celestial starry night.

Performance

Although the Ghost is considerably more refined than its fellow Rolls-Royce models, don’t be fooled into thinking that it isn’t just as technologically advanced. Under the Ghost’s stunning bonnet sits a powerful V12 engine that can achieve a reach a remarkable top speed of 155 mph. Combining exquisite luxury with enough horsepower to put most racecars to shame, the Rolls outpace most racecars, the Rolls-Royce Ghost perfectly exemplifies why its iconic manufacturer is so highly respected.

FAQs About The Ghost

How much for a Rolls Royce Ghost?

This will depend on several factors, such as when you choose to hire the car and which version of the Ghost you choose to hire. If you want more information on pricing, we recommend speaking to a member of our brilliant sales team; click here to enquire. 

How long is a Rolls Royce Ghost?

The length of a Rolls-Royce will depend on whether you want a standard wheelbase or an extended wheelbase; given that the Series II was largely an update in terms of tech & styling, the dimensions largely stayed the same between models. Here is a size breakdown of the standard and extended wheelbase of the Ghost:

Model	Length (m)	Width (m)	Weight (kg)
Rolls-Royce Ghost (Standard Wheelbase)	5.39	1.95	2,435
Rolls-Royce Ghost (Extended Wheelbase)	5.57	1.95	2,530

How many seats in a Rolls-Royce Ghost?

All Rolls-Royce Ghost models are equipped with 5 passenger seats.

What is the difference between a Rolls-Royce Phantom and Ghost?

As Rolls-Royce’s flagship model, the Phantom is regarded as the more luxurious of the two and is also slightly larger. Conversely, the Ghost is marginally smaller and is considered as a more ‘accessible’ model. For a more in-depth comparison of the Phantom and the Ghost, check out this article which highlights the differences between the two seemingly similar models.

Which is better, a Rolls-Royce Phantom or Ghost?

This depends on your definition of ‘better’. The Phantom is significantly more luxurious as a top-tier car, unlike the more accessible Ghost. But if you want a vehicle that exudes prestige and sophistication without being too expensive, the Ghost is likely the better choice.