THERE are smaller houses in Singapore. The new Rolls-Royce convertible is so big that if you were to open the trunk and put two planks on the bumper, you could probably drive a small Chinese car into the boot.

To say the all-aluminium Phantom Drophead Coupe is a large car is an understatement. At 5.6 metres long and with a kerb weight of 2.6 tonnes, it could easily be a heavy goods vehicle. Except for its looks.

This ultra-luxury ragtop is stunningly styled and, despite its massive proportions, strangely elegant. A Drophead Coupe with the roof down is the most exquisite-looking modern car you will see in a long time, even though nothing about it is subtle.

For example, two of its most striking characteristics are featured in large expanse - the brushed steel bonnet and the rear teak decking. And both draw even more attention to the car.

The Rolls-Royce Drophead Coupe will be delivered to the first of its six customers later next month. He will probably have what some say is the best accessory for it - a good-class bungalow with a long driveway and at least half a dozen mature trees. But perhaps more important will be a dark pair of sunglasses - preferably oversized and trimmed with diamante. Because anything else is likely to pale in comparison to this very prominent car.

But while everyone on the road will notice a Drophead driving by, hardly anyone will hear it. That's because it is exceedingly silent, with neither engine nor exhaust audible. It could well be an electric vehicle, if not for the prodigious power from the 6.75-litre V12 engine. The Drophead has 453 hp but only a power reserve meter gives any indication of it. Calibrated from zero to 100 per cent, the meter shows how much power is available. Cruise at 100 kmh on the expressway and the needle hovers at 99. Floor the accelerator at the lights and it arcs all around to 20 or less, depending on how heavy your right foot is.

Because of its size, driving the Drophead can be intimidating initially. But the thin-rimmed steering wheel is super sharp and once you get used to the bulk, the big convertible can be as responsive as a sports car. Even the suspension is firm. But you still waft along on a cushioned ride nonetheless. This is after all, a Rolls-Royce, and the ride comfort has to be nothing less than excellent. Of course, with the car being as huge as it is, some body roll will be evident in fast corners.

But speed is likely to be the last thing you will do in the Drophead Coupe. This car is best enjoyed while cruising slowly with the large fabric roof folded away, as its occupants luxuriate in the hedonistic cabin with the four generously sized seats and superb 15-speaker sound system. Even modern touches like a button to electrically close the vault-like door do not make it any less classic. The Drophead Coupe's most special quality must be its timelessness.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe

Engine: 6,749cc V12
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic transmission
Max power: 453 hp @ 5,350 rpm
Max torque: 720 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
0-100 kmh: 5.9 secs
Top speed: 240 kmh
Price: from $1.698 million
Distributor: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Singapore, tel: 6475-3113