Does Rolls Royce Have V12 Engines: Why Luxury Demands the Best

For the longest time, the famed “Six and Three Quarter Liter” 6.75 liter V8 was the workhorse engine behind Rolls Royce vehicles. However, with the acquisition of Rolls Royce by BMW, and BMW's extensive use of V12 engines in its lineup, it was inevitable that V12 engines would make their way into Rolls Royce models. Just like Volkswagen owns Bentley and uses some of its engines, similar engine options are seen in Rolls Royce vehicles.

V12 Engines in Luxury Vehicles

It is a common misconception that V12 engines are solely for race cars. The balance and smoothness provided by a V12 engine make it a premium choice for luxury vehicles. These engines ensure a smooth ride, and their heavy weight requires a significant amount of torque. To fit a 130hp I4 or 250hp I6/V6 in a Rolls Royce would be counterproductive, as it would struggle to perform optimally.

Why a V12 is Ideal for Rolls Royce

Consider a ship engine, like the Wartsila, which is massive and powerful but not designed for road use. Similarly, a 5.6 million LB-FT and 107000HP, 14-cylinder engine, while impressive, is not suitable for a road car. The R18 engine, while capable in smaller vehicles like the Civic, would not be appropriate for the much heavier Rolls Royce Phantom weighing over 5600 lbs.

Engine Balance and Performance

A V12 engine in a saloon is a symbol of luxury. Its 60° configuration provides full balance, unlike a crossplane V8, which ensures a smooth firing sequence. This smooth run is evident even at idle, where a coin might stand on its edge without falling over. Turbochargers have become the standard, allowing for high torque production without issues. Mercedes, for instance, had to electronically limit the torque of their first V12 biturbo for emission compliance.

Exclusivity and Choice

Thanks to the extensive use of cast-iron V8 engines from Detroit, V12 engines have lost much of their exclusivity. However, flatplane V8s are reserved for high-performance models, making them unsuitable for luxury saloons. Building V16s or the Veyron's engine is not practical for a luxury brand, leaving a 60° V12 as the most fitting choice.