Of the select band of marques that fall into the category of 'dream cars', Rolls Royce has to be one of the most sought after. Founded in 1906 through a partnership between Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, the company produces the ultimate in luxury cars and their new model sticks to that tradition. A new Rolls Royce is a big event, considering the last model was launched in 1978. But after 20 years, Rolls Royce has finally launched its 9th generation car, the new Rolls Royce Silver Seraph. And its curvaceous body and slick styling has Gulf-based buyers queuing up to buy one. "Sit in the new Silver Seraph and you enter a different world," says Mohammed Ali Murshed, sales manager for Rolls Royce and Bentley at Al Habtoor Motors.
(Murshed, incidentally, was awarded the title of Rolls Royce worldwide salesman of the year, 1997). Although usually associated with Royalty, flash rock stars and as corporate transport, Murshed says that many buyers are individuals that demand extremely high standards of performance and service for their money. All of which Murshed, through Al Habtoor Motors, provides. "We were also awarded best dealer for Africa and the Middle East last year," says Murshed. "Many of our customers are so happy with our service that they prefer to buy their Rolls Royce from us even for use overseas." The Silver Seraph is powered by a 5.4 litre V12 engine that will take it up to a top speed of 225km/h, where allowed, and if you want one for Christmas, you had better place your order now, as delivery is 14-16 weeks. Although your car can be built to order, dealer-specified models rarely stay in the showroom for more than a month before they are sold. "The Rolls Royce has a presence on the road like no other vehicle," says Murshed. I should hope so for nearly Dhs1 million!