1974 | Rolls-Royce Corniche I

The Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, launched in 1965 was the company’s first monocoque saloon car, all previous models having be built on a chassis. It featured the company’s 6230cc V8 which had been such a success on the Silver Cloud. The following year the company’s in-house coachbuilder began production of the gorgeous and exclusive two-door version; the Mulliner-Park Ward Coupe. The elegant coachwork was designed by Bill Allen, and each car was hand built by MPW over almost five months. The price was some 50% higher than the standard Silver Shadow saloon.

Produced with the finest materials and featuring different seats and dashboard to the Silver Shadow, the engine power was increased and both suspension and steering geometry improvements were made, provided an unsurpassed ride for the time. Demand for these magnificent cars meant long waiting lists. By 1971 the MPW Coupe was renamed the Corniche, which benefitted from the enlarged 6750cc engine. The model also featured a superb hydro pneumatic self-levelling suspension system.

This exceptional example was ordered new in July 1973 by a Mr Alan Firmin of Martin Walter Ltd in Kent (Vauxhall/Bedford distributors and owners of the Dormobile brand). It was finished in Larch Green with gold pinstripes and sported a Beige Vaumol hide interior. Little is known of the car's early history but in 1993 it was acquired by a Staffordshire gentleman in whose family it was to remain for the next 25 years before appearing in an auction in 2018 as part of a deceased estate. At this point any service history could not be found, the catalogue description at the time recording that it was one of two Rolls-Royces owned by the family which had been kept garaged and used very sparingly, the odometer reading at that time being an unwarranted 21,652 miles.

The car has just five former keepers and has covered less than 9,000 miles in the last twenty years. When acquired in 1993 the purchaser was told that the car had been in storage for nine years, so it is possible that the current recorded mileage of 26,900 is correct. We have sold many Corniches over the years, and what is certain is that this is one of the best-driving examples we have ever had. The car was repainted some years ago, and the presentation is still superb. Supremely quiet and smooth with a superlative ride and an engine with excellent oil pressure - everything about the car is conducive with a lower mileage.

Since 2018 the Corniche has been carefully recommissioned and maintained. Invoices show that it has had the following work carried out: automatic gearbox reconditioned; hydraulic system overhauled with various new seals and pipes; new accumulators; brakes overhauled with new or reconditioned calipers, brake pads and hoses replaced (including hand brake); new rear suspension springs and mountings; new front suspension springs and dampers; new ball joints; new front and rear exhaust sections; new rear axle straps; air conditioning system overhauled and converted to modern refrigerant gas; new petrol gauge sender; correct Avon Turbosteel tyres; new battery, a full service plus various other minor items.

The chrome and woodwork on this car are absolutely gorgeous and with a little valet detailing, this is a show quality example. Our own road test revealed just a noisy heater fan blade which we will rectify as part of our own service and preparation. Nothing should disturb the quiet ambience of a car such as this. Truly magnificent!