BMW defies skeptics with launch of Phantom.(Special Report)

Byline: Bradford Wernle Automotive News Europe

When BMW's Project Rolls-Royce was conceived back in 1998, skeptics believed the Bavarian carmaker's venture was doomed to failure.

At the time, BMW had not yet managed to discard money-losing Rover, and doubters predicted BMW would soon lose its appetite for further British adventures.

Rolls-Royce loyalists were appalled that Vickers plc, the previous owner of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, had auctioned off the Rolls-Royce brand separate from Bentley in 1998.

The enthusiasts were equally unhappy that these two most British of ...