Rolls-Royce Ghost Performance Numbers Released

Rolls-Royce has just released the full list of specs on the upcoming Ghost model and the numbers are impressive. The most regal of automakers has always been known for powerful and luxurious cars but judging from the numbers just released by Rolls, this luxury sedan will scream down the highway like a raving banshee.

Powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine, the Ghost will make 563hp at 5250 rpm and 575 ft-lbs of torque at just 1500 rpm. Despite what will do-doubt be an immense curb weight the “entry-level” Rolls will use an 8-speed automatic transmission to hit 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Interestingly, Rolls-Royce says it will achieve 4.7 seconds in markets outside North America, but gives no reason why that is. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

“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,” said Rolls’ Director of Engineering, Helmut Riedl. “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.”

Deliveries of the £165,000 ($272,000) Ghost will begin in the U.K. and Europe later this year with deliveries in North America, Asia and the rest of the world in the second quarter of 2010.

Official release after the jump:

PRESS RELEASE

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS CONFIRMS GHOST FIGURES

– Engine power output of 563 bhp / 420 kW / 570 PS @ 5250 rpm
– 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds / 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds*
– Top speed of 155 mph / 250 km/h (electronically governed)
– Maximum torque 780 Nm / 575 lb ft @ 1500 rpm

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has confirmed headline performance figures for Ghost, their new model which will be unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

The Ghost will be powered by a brand new 6.6 litre turbo charged V12 engine unique to Rolls-Royce. This engine will produce 563 bhp, delivering a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds and a governed top speed of 155 mph. The engine is combined with an 8-speed automatic ZF gearbox.

Rolls-Royce Director of Engineering, Helmut Riedl said, “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.”

Riedl continues, “Rolls-Royce power is entirely different to anything else in the automotive world. It is delivered free from stress and exertion but at the same time must engage the driver. Ghost is about fingertip control while still enjoying a dynamic connection with the road. Equally passengers need to be cosseted from the physical sensations of acceleration, braking and cornering. Our chassis set up keeps Ghost stable and flat, preventing it from wallowing or pitching in the corners or imposing undesirable forces on those inside.”

Rolls-Royce has already confirmed that the Ghost will ride on an intelligent four corner air suspension system using multi link aluminium front and rear axles. The fully integrated system allows each of the Ghost’s dynamic handling systems to work together in harmony, providing the optimum levels of refinement and comfort at all times.

The vehicle acoustics also play a vital role in creating the authentic Rolls-Royce environment. Naturally engine, exhaust and even tyre noise have been engineered to be inaudible as far as possible, both internally and externally.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Tom Purves, said, “Ghost is not about a single superlative but rather a careful blend of attributes. A Rolls-Royce should carry its power with grace, agility and refinement and this is never achieved by a focus on outright performance. Mastery comes in creating a balance and having driven the Ghost again recently I can say confidently that our engineering team has achieved this in fine style”.

Customer deliveries of Ghost in the UK and Europe will begin late in 2009 with pricing from £165,000 excluding taxes and delivery charges. Customer deliveries in other markets including the USA and Asia Pacific region will begin from the second quarter 2010.

A full technical specification will be released later in the year.

* 0-60 mph 4.7 seconds (4.8 seconds North America)
* 0-100 km/h 4.9 seconds (5.0 seconds North America)