Every detail of the vehicle is designed to reflect its six figure price tag, especially its interior with inlayed hardwoods, eye-ball vents, and organ pull-switches.

The hand-stitched leather inside the car evokes images of the cabin of a yacht more than a humble motor vehicle. Surprisingly, an impressive number of high-tech gadgets lurk underneath the dash, including a night-vision camera with pedestrian recognition.

The name of the Ghost is a shortened version of one from Rolls-Royce’s past. The Silver Ghost was produced in the early 20th century and was called “the best car in the world” by Autocar magazine.

Still produced in Britain, Rolls-Royce, now owned by BMW, spends 20 days to build each car. This attention to detail has added to the company’s loyal fan base and impressed the critics:

Dan Neil of The Wall Street Journal says: “Rolls-Royce has, to my mind, just built its first real car. Here, finally the promise of the BMW-owned Rolls Royce is fulfilled, with a car that combines the insuperable technology of the Werks with the enormous charisma and craft of British luxury.”

Angus MacKenzie of Motor Trend says: “This big, heavy limo hits 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, and will hustle down the standing quarter mile in 13.2 seconds. It is the quickest production Rolls-Royce in history.”

He was attempting to correct an ‘acoustical imbalance’ in the motors, all part of Rolls-Royce’s obsessive focus on the reduction of noise, vibration, and harshness in this new car.”

Jerry Garrett of The New York Times says: “Passers-by in Southern California had little trouble recognizing the Ghost as a “Royce” (only the unwashed would call it a Roller).

Most motorists seemed gracious about yielding the right-of-way.” Paul Seredynski of Edmunds.com seemed to be the only reviewer (brave enough -- or critical enough) to point out flaws:

“Pros: Brilliantly understated styling, ocean-liner thrust, capable handling, spacious rear cabin. Cons: Exclusive pricing, merely adequate trunk space.”