1971 Rolls-Royce Corniche

This is a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow saloon by HJ Mulliner Park-Ward. The model is often referred to as a Fixed Head Coupe ("FHC"). This example is of one of the last made, later to be renamed and produced as the "Corniche". FHCs are becoming a rare find in this condition and are becoming more and more sought by collectors. This one is a very fine chrome bumper example that suits both the connoisseur driver and collector.



This car the car was originally sold and delivered to Italy, and it remained in that same family until about 10 years ago, passing to the nephew of the original owner in Switzerland and then moving with him to Florida. Whilst in Florida, the car was serviced, maintained and subsequently sold by Vantage motorworks whose expertise with Rolls-Royce needs no introduction. The car has been owned by a connoisseur of the marque since.



The colour is Brewster green with a black Everflex top fitted. This combination is paired up with a black Connolly leather interior with matching carpets and floor rugs. The car is finished with a single black fine-line on the body waist-line and hubcap beauty rings. The overall combination is very elegant whilst being dramatic at the same time.



The body is very straight and the paint is quite excellent. The car underwent a bare metal respray some estimated 20 years ago and was clearly an expensive refinish. It still presents high in luster, very glossy and with no signs of any over-spray on any externally fitted part. It is pretty much blemish free with only discrete chips and marks.



The interior of the car is in stunning condition. The front seat leather was replaced at some point and whoever did so, did an amazingly accurate and factory like job. Although it shows to be newer than the rear, it was done so well that it is very welcomed. Throughout, the leather is soft and supple. It displays a very light and warming patina that is very natural in its presentation ("patina" does not mean tired, worn or ripped!), elegantly presenting the natural creases in the leather and regularly used areas like arm-rests and seat edges.



All the wood is in superb if not flawless condition having been refinished to exacting Rolls-Royce standards. This is an expensive exercise with this wood-work alone having cost some $4,000. This investment really has paid off as they are truly superb and with the grace of Mother Nature lending her hand in the detail of the wood - the knots, the grains and the rich colours - it presents at its finest.

The original broadcloth headlining is in good condition without any of the "grubbiness" often seen on these wool headliners. The original Wilton wool carpeting, including the signature "HJMPW" driver heel-pad, is in excellent condition.



All interior feature and functions are fully operational including all electrics seats, windows, gauges, clock etc. The A/C blows icy cold and heater working well. Everything is all so clean and crisp. The only feature that is not original is the Sony slimline stereo system which appears to be a fitment from the 80s/90s. It integrates well, but if you are purist, you will prefer an original system.



The chrome and bright work is excellent without any pitting and the rubber around the car is good.



Mechanically, the car is in superior condition and the presentation under the bonnet and under carriage clearly shows that. It has not been done-up for sale but maintained in original condition. All hydraulics and brakes have been inspected and tested, working well. Exhaust is good. The car is being sold with Park-Wards Predelivery Commissioning process included which will present the car for delivery with every major and minor service done and up to date.



The car shows 20,000 kilometres (approx 13,000 miles) and was purpor