2001 | Rolls-Royce Corniche V

• 1 of only 291 such cars built
• Only 17,000 miles from new
• Significant as the only VW developed Rolls-Royce
• Embassy Black with Cognac Connolly Hide
• The last Rolls-Royce model manufactured at the Crewe factory
• A truly excellent example in fantastic colours

The Rolls-Royce Corniche is one of the most iconic vehicles in Rolls’ long and glorious history, the original carnation being produced in name from 1971 (though in form from 1966) all the way to 1995, an extraordinarily long life and the longest produced car from the legendary marque, and despite its age, always remained an incredibly desirable automobile. In 1998, Volkswagen purchased Rolls-Royce and Bentley, soon after deciding to produce a Rolls-Royce convertible, based on the Azure but with the newer styling of the Silver Seraph.

In 1999, the Rolls-Royce Corniche V was launched and was the first and last new Rolls-Royce launched under Volkswagen, also becoming the first and last Rolls-Royce developed from a Bentley model, rather than vice versa. While it shared the Azure’s platform, the bodywork was entirely bespoke to the Corniche and was far more modern in its styling than the Bentley counterpart, benefitting from the Seraph styling. It truly makes for a stunning vehicle, both inside and out as along with the Seraph styled exterior, it also features the interior design of the Seraph. This combined with its extreme rarity with only 374 cars ever being built makes for an incredibly special automobile on all levels.

It also must be said that whilst having launched in the new era of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, it is still a coach-built car, and as with the phenomenal Continental R, T, SC and Azures, it is the arguably the last coach-built Rolls-Royce model before production of newer cars became more conventional.

Of the 374 examples produced, this stunning drop top Corniche is one of the select few that made its way stateside. Purchased new through Rolls-Royce of Beverly Hills, the Rolls was ordered in Black over Autumn hides, Wilton wool Sahara carpets with Autumn trim (as well as a requisite set of Sahara lambswool moutons) all covered by a Black top with Soft Tan headliner.

Arriving in the port of Los Angeles on December 23, 2000, the car was first registered to Thomas Stewart, then Chairman and CEO of Service Group of American, of Paradise Valley, Arizona on March 14, 2001. In his eight years of ownership, Mr. Stewart racked up about 17,000 miles on the big drop top. Purchased by the current owner in 2008 with 17,024, only 23 additional miles were accumulated since then. Among the final Rolls-Royces to emerge from the factory at Crewe, this Corniche, which is accompanied by its build records, clean CARFAX report, and handbooks, is one of only 67 produced in 2001.

Whether you’re an avid Rolls-Royce collector or want the ultimate cruiser for the stunning roads of the Azure Coast in the South of France, this is a magnificent opportunity. So rarely do these Corniche Vs come up for sale, let alone in this condition and in such great colours, not to be missed!

Now available for viewing at the DD Classics Dealership in London, please call 0208 878 3355 for more information.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above information but errors may occur. Please check with a salesperson.