Lot 69: 1973 ROLLS-ROYCE CORNICHE COUPE

COACHWORK BY MULLINER PARK WARD


White with brown leather interior

Engine: V8, overhead valve, 6,750cc, 225bhp at 4,500rpm; Gearbox: three speed automatic transmission; Suspension: front, independent, anti-dive, lower wishbones, coil springs, rear by trailing arm and coil spring, automatic leveling; Brakes: power-assisted disc. Left hand drive.

The Corniche model was announced in early 1971 by Rolls-Royce and began a new era for the company of using names to designate specific coachwork designs rather than just the basis of a chassis name: with unitary construction the previous method became obsolete. The name and model in fact was a new identity for the existing, coachbuilt, two door design based on the Silver Shadow which had been available since 1967 from H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward. It also benefited from improved performance over the standard Shadow, and for the first time cruise control was introduced, while cosmetically the new car featured a revised interior dash layout.

Denoted by the 'A' in the chassis number, this Corniche was built in 1972 but was first registered in 1973. Displaying just over 77,500 miles on the odometer, condition is as one would expect for a cared for example that has covered an average of just over 2,000 miles a year from new. While the paint presents well in general, there is some abrasion on the passenger side rear wheel arch and there is an indented stone chip near to one of the driver's side headlight surrounds. The interior is supple and nicely aged with the leather lightly veined, the wood trim all presents well and a non-standard Alpine cassette player has been fitted. When recently inspected the car performed without fault and can thus be referred to as 'on the button', and all options such as air conditioning, cruise control, electric windows, central locking and electric seats are reported to be in fully functional order.

The Corniche has long been heralded for its comfort, and this solid driving example is ideal for stylish, unhurried cruising. Accompanying the car are an original drivers' manual and tool kit.

WITHOUT RESERVE