Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible

Launched in 1971 as Rolls-Royce's coupe version of the Silver Shadow, the Corniche was a superior car to the saloon on which it was based. With fabulously elegant 'Coke-bottle' styling by John Blatchley, each and every one was hand built by Mulliner Park Ward in a necessarily lengthy process that took all of 20 weeks and resulted in a price some 50% higher than the standard Silver Shadow. 

Only the very finest materials were used including Wilton carpeting, Connolly hide and the best burr walnut veneers, giving these cars a level of quality and glamour that surpassed that of the saloons. Engine power also went up by 10% increasing the top speed to 130mph with acceleration to match – 0-60 in 7.9 secs. Tweaks to the suspension and steering geometry gave a sportier ride and a special low-loss exhaust and new dashboard were also adopted. A three-speed Turbo Hydramatic 400 automatic transmission was standard, with independent suspension all round, self-levelling at the rear. Four wheel disc brakes were specified, with ventilated discs added for 1972.

In 1977 an improved Corniche II was launched, the major mechanical difference being the fitment of rack-and-pinion steering. Alloy and rubber bumpers replaced earlier chrome ones. An aluminium radiator was substituted and an oil cooler was added, along with a split-level air conditioning system. Production of the Coupe ceased at the end of 1981, though a convertible version continued to be made as the flagship model in the Rolls-Royce range until 1995.

First registered in June 1977, this Corniche II has been in the current ownership since 1994 and has mainly been used as a wedding car throughout that time. Originally gold but long since resprayed white, it has a dark blue leather interior piped in white. The electrically retractable blue hood works as it should.

Always well maintained by the vendor and said to have proved totally reliable, it is fitted with a modern electronic ignition system which improves starting, running and fuel consumption compared to the Opus system originally fitted. It comes with all its old MOT certificates back to 1992, the mileage rising from 87,600 to 97,600 throughout that time. Currently MOTd and taxed, it is ready for immediate use and comes complete with an appropriate ROI15 (Rolls) number plate.