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The 2004 Rolls-Royce 100EX Concept was introduced as a monumental model marking the 100th anniversary of the iconic British luxury automaker. It was not just a showpiece but an experimental vehicle designed with deep engineering development, aiming to create a dynamic yet comfortable supercar that honored Rolls-Royce’s legacy while embracing modern design and technologies. The 100EX featured notable "marine" influences in its design, with an abundance of wood and polished aluminum, which gave it a luxurious and yacht-like appearance. The use of teak wood, a material long associated with shipbuilding, was prominently featured in the deck paneling, trunk, soft top compartment, and door inserts, evoking the image of a refined ocean yacht.
The body of the 100EX was crafted from composite materials and painted in the dark blue shade of "Dark Curzon," which contrasted beautifully with the polished aluminum accents on the hood, cockpit edges, and massive windshield frame. The car’s design stood apart from traditional supercars with its non-aggressive, elongated proportions—short front and long rear overhangs—and doors that opened against the direction of travel. These design elements, along with a retractable soft top with cashmere lining, reinforced the car's luxurious, almost nautical, aesthetic. The trunk, also in yacht style, featured two flaps that provided additional versatility, either as a table or a platform for golf bags, further emphasizing the car’s leisure-oriented luxury.
Built on a Phantom platform shortened by 100 mm, the 100EX retained many of the Phantom's key components, including the suspension, steering mechanism, and a 6-speed automatic transmission. However, for the anniversary occasion, Rolls-Royce opted to equip the car with a remarkable V16 engine—an immense 9-liter powerplant that promised performance beyond the usual expectations. Although specific power figures and performance data were not disclosed, it was clear that the 100EX was designed to offer outstanding performance, aligning with the brand's long-standing reputation for powerful, elegant vehicles.
Although Rolls-Royce made it clear that the 100EX would not enter production, the company showcased the concept at numerous events throughout the year to celebrate its centenary. Alongside the 100EX, a special limited edition Centenary Phantom was offered to buyers, inspired by the 100EX's design. The Centenary Phantom featured distinctive body paint, interior upholstery, and red emblems, along with luxurious details such as a silver Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, mahogany veneer interior trim with silver accents, and anodized instruments. For those seeking even more exclusivity, an 18-karat gold bracelet with diamonds, bearing the intertwined "RR" logo, was offered as part of a complete package that complemented the car’s prestige.
The Rolls-Royce 100EX Concept beautifully blended tradition and innovation, paying homage to the brand's storied past while offering a glimpse into the future of luxury and performance.
