Lot 312: 1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible

The arrival of the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow and Bentley T series in late 1965 marked a major change in Rolls-Royce motor cars; previously the products of Crewe had employed separate chassis but here was a car using unitary construction of chassis and body. This change, brought about by perceived market demands that considered the upright styling of the Silver Cloud/S series rather dated, inevitably decreed more uniform coachwork compared to the elegant designs that had gone before - but underneath the skin the new Rolls-Royce/Bentley offered even greater engineering excellence and sophistication. At the Silver Shadow's heart was Rolls-Royce's familiar alloy V8 engine retaining the same 6,230cc as in the Silver Cloud III/S3 and a power output of around 220bhp. It was in the chassis, however, that important changes were made, most notably the adoption of all round independent suspension, including a sophisticated engine pump-driven self-levelling system, and disc brakes. The year after the Silver Shadow's launch a two door coupe with coachwork by Mulliner Park Ward joined the line-up, followed in 1968 by a similarly styled drop-head coupé. For 1969 all models had their interiors modified, while the following year engine capacity was increased to 6,750cc. Two years later, in 1971, the two door coupé and drop-head models were renamed Corniche, simultaneously receiving a 10% power increase over the four door Silver Shadow that increased top speed to 120mph and dropped the 0-60mph acceleration to 9.6 seconds. In 1972 the suspension was completely redesigned and radial tyres were fitted, greatly enhancing the car's handling. Originally supplied to Billy Smart of the eponymous international circus concern, this superb drop-head Corniche has been with its current and only third owner for the last 33 years - almost its entire life. Always garaged throughout this time, the car is finished in black with a white hood, while the interior is trimmed in beige with magenta piping and carpets. Described as being in very good condition, this well looked after and much loved motor car comes complete with the original toolkit, a road fund licence which expires in April, old MoT test certificates dating back to 1990 and a current certificate valid for 12 months. Highly recommended.