The 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge Landspeed represents one of the most limited and detailed projects in the marque’s modern history. Created as a tribute to Captain George E T Eyston and his record-breaking runs at Bonneville, it stands among only 25 examples ever built. This car highlights the way Rolls-Royce can merge heritage storytelling with bespoke craftsmanship in a performance-oriented package.
A Tribute to Captain Eyston
Captain George E T Eyston was relentless in his pursuit of land speed records. His eight-wheeled Thunderbolt, powered by twin Rolls-Royce V12 aero engines, set three official records at Bonneville between 1937 and 1938. The highest speed achieved, 357.497 mph, remains engraved in history. This spirit of innovation inspired the Landspeed Collection, linking one of Rolls-Royce’s boldest drivers to one of its most exclusive modern creations.
Unique Design and Detailing
Each 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge Landspeed carries a set of bespoke features tied to Eyston’s achievements. The two-tone finish combines Black Diamond Metallic with Bonneville Blue, a colour that reflects the vast skies above the salt flats. Inside, the cabin is filled with references: the fissured surface of the Salt Flats recreated on the dashboard, Thunderbolt’s silhouette etched into the centre console, and a starlight headliner that mirrors the exact night sky of 16 September 1938. Even the Bonneville clock carries the record-breaking figure of 357.497 mph.
Power and Performance
Based on the Dawn Black Badge, the Landspeed benefits from the performance-focused engineering of Rolls-Royce’s sportier line. Under the bonnet sits a twin-turbocharged 6.6-litre V12 delivering 600 PS and 840 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.9 seconds, impressive for a convertible of its size, while the top speed reaches 250 km/h. Combined with its bespoke craftsmanship, this mechanical ability ensures it remains as capable as it is rare.
Provenance and Condition
The example here was supplied new to Germany in late 2021 by Riller & Schnauck of Berlin. Showing just 6,100 kilometres, it has seen minimal use and remains close to original delivery condition. External highlights include the black Spirit of Ecstasy, black brake calipers, and a darkened grille that distinguish it from standard Dawn models. With fewer than 25 cars produced, every example is individual, ensuring each carries its own unique story within the broader Landspeed Collection.
Summary
The 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn Black Badge Landspeed is more than a luxury convertible. It captures the connection between Rolls-Royce aero power and a record-breaking legacy while standing as one of the rarest modern Rolls-Royce projects. Limited to 25, finished with bespoke Bonneville-inspired details, and offered in near-new condition, it represents a remarkable blend of history and exclusivity.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
