Rolls-Royce Ghost – Buy Classic Cars

History of the Rolls-Royce Ghost

The Rolls-Royce Ghost was unveiled in 2009, during an era marked by Rolls-Royce’s transition under BMW’s stewardship. Named in honour of the Silver Ghost from 1906, the modern Ghost introduced a new segment of luxury vehicles aimed at buyers seeking a more accessible Rolls-Royce experience without compromising on exclusivity. Its launch came after the debut of the Phantom, making the Ghost the brand’s second model under BMW ownership. The Ghost was developed as the 'RR04' and premiered with a focus on blending advanced technology and traditional luxury craftsmanship.

Model Evolution and Series History

The Ghost was introduced as a new model line in 2009, directly based on the BMW F01 7 Series platform yet extensively re-engineered. In 2014, Rolls-Royce presented the 'Series II' Ghost with distinct updates: the car received new rear lights, a redesigned bumper, and freshly styled front and rear seats. Notably, the Ghost Extended Wheelbase joined the range in 2011 for enhanced rear comfort. Throughout its production, Rolls-Royce allowed customers substantial leeway in customising both interior and exterior configurations. There is no direct predecessor in the modern era, yet it draws inspiration from the historical Silver Ghost.

Key Features and Market Share of the Rolls-Royce Ghost

The Ghost impresses with its 6.6-litre V12 twin-turbocharged engine and a wealth of bespoke comfort and safety technology. Notable are the optional Starlight Headliner, illuminated 'GHOST' sill plates, and fully customisable lambswool floormats and leather upholstery. Other highlights: panoramic glass sunroof, 21-inch alloy wheels, advanced infotainment (including rear-seat theatre configuration), hand-matched wood trims, and adaptive LED headlights. Each Ghost can be configured to an owner’s exact individual taste, ensuring a unique vehicle per specification. The Ghost represents the only currently listed Rolls-Royce model in active supply on Classic Trader, holding a share of 100% of Rolls-Royce listings and attracting all viewed demand for the manufacturer.

Technical Data

Limited Editions and Collectible Variants

Special editions of the Ghost include options with unique exterior paint finishes, one-off leather and wood combinations, and illuminated or monogrammed features such as the Spirit of Ecstasy (in chrome or illuminated), illuminated Ghost sill plates, and unique handpainted coachlines. The Starlight Headliner with shooting star effect is especially prized among collectors for its individuality. Factory bespoke requests have led to ultra-rare editions, characterised mainly by extraordinary combinations of interior and exterior features.

Weaknesses and Maintenance Considerations

Given the largely modern engineering and use of proven BMW technology, Ghost models are considered robust. Specific known issues aren’t documented here, but as with any high-value luxury saloon, sustaining originality in interior materials (such as lambswool and rare woods), keeping all electronics and assistance systems up to date, and sourcing original Rolls-Royce parts for cosmetic and mechanical maintenance is crucial. Genuine maintenance typically requires specialist servicing and attention to the numerous electronic options fitted. Maintaining extensive documentation—original keys, manuals, accessories—is standard for this market segment.

Engine, Performance and Handling

The Rolls-Royce Ghost pairs a 6.6-litre V12 twin-turbocharged engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring discreet yet formidable acceleration. Adaptive air suspension irons out road irregularities, while advanced chassis electronics deliver stability even at speed. Interior quietness, combined with a precise yet relaxed steering feel, positions the Ghost as a driver’s limousine with advanced acoustic and comfort refinement.

Popular model configurations include the Series I and Series II, both available with extended wheelbase options for greater passenger space. - Ghost Series I (2009–2014): Focus on traditional luxury and simple, elegant control layout.

• Ghost Series II (from 2014): Features facelifted styling, updated technology, improved infotainment and reworked seating arrangements, especially in the rear.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design Details

The Ghost is the result of expert design combining understated elegance with supreme comfort. Designers put emphasis on ease-of-access features, including Soft-Close ('Effortless Doors'), illuminated entry sills, individually selectable ambient lighting, and a near-silent cabin environment. The interior can be specified with almost any leather, wood, or colour; unique lambswool floormats and starlight headliner turn each car into a private lounge. Distinctive accessories include electrochromic glass, ‘picnic tables’ for rear seats, exclusive entertainment systems and monogrammed headrests. Coachlines can be hand-painted and the Spirit of Ecstasy badge can be finished in different styles. The exterior tailors classic Rolls-Royce lines with more dynamic proportions compared to larger models.

Other noteworthy facts

Every Ghost comes supplied with original keys, complete documentation and care accessories upon delivery. Customer requests for custom-coloured seatbelts, Black Boot Trim options in the luggage compartment, distinctive key and umbrella configurations, and advanced telematics are among the bespoke add-ons routinely requested by Ghost owners.

Summary

The Rolls-Royce Ghost has redefined luxury in the full-size saloon segment since 2009. It combines BMW technology with hand-finished, customisable Rolls-Royce characteristics and covers everything from active safety to personalised design. It is the only Rolls-Royce model active in both supply and demand in the Classic Trader inventory, underlining its unique status among buyers and collectors who value exceptional comfort, engineering and the possibility for limitless personalisation.