Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe Waterspeed Collection revealed

The Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection has been revealed in celebration of the water speed record success of Sir Malcolm Campbell.

The new model, which was shown to potential customers on the site of the original Bluebird motor company in London, is designed to show off the range of bespoke options from which Rolls-Royce owners can choose to personalise their cars. The model was first previewed with a series of official design sketches earlier this year. Just 35 examples of the car will be made, each costing £435,000.

The car is finished in special blue paint inspired by the Bluebird's colour scheme, with the effect also extending to the car's engine and the 11-spoke alloy wheels. A Bluebird motif also appears on the exterior, while the Phantom Drophead Coupé's teak decking has been replaced by brushed steel.

Inside, grey leather adorns much of the cabin, with the Bluebird motif embossed on the centre armrest. Special Abachi wood also features, while the standard car's power dials are swapped for Bluebird-inspired graphics. The look also extends to the steering wheel, which features blue accents alongside black leather.

The Waterspeed car keeps the Drophead Coupé's 6.75-litre V12 engine for power, with 453bhp available alongside 531lb ft of torque. The standard car is capable of hitting 60mph in 5.6 seconds and reaching a top speed of 150mph.

The collection is inspired by Sir Malcolm Campbell's water speed record run in September 1937. During the run, Campbell's Bluebird K3 hydroplane boat hit a new record of 129.5mph. Power for the boat came from a Rolls-Royce engine.

Following its debut, the car will be taken to the shores of Lake Como in Italy, near to the site on neighbouring Lake Maggiore where Campbell set his world record.