1980 Rolls-Royce Corniche

Registration No: LKJ 421V
Chassis No: CRH50300
MOT: Exempt

• Rare late second series Corniche Saloon
• Desirable 'mineral oil' specification
• Finished in Caribbean Aqua with Blue Connolly hides
• Many improvements by Rolls-Royce Specialist former owner
• Kept well looked after by current vendor

In production between 1971 and 1982, the Rolls-Royce Corniche is the epitome of sophisticated motoring. Fabled for its extravagantly sumptuous interior and hushed drivetrain, it was powered by a tuned version of Crewe's staple 6750cc V8 engine mated to an automatic transmission. Equipped with firmer springs, thicker anti-roll bars, and revised steering geometry, it proved a more satisfying drive than its humbler saloon car siblings. The presence of olio-pneumatic suspension and a plethora of electric motors ensured that it remained a singularly cosseting experience. The Corniche received its first major revision in 1977 and included new rack-and-pinion steering and alloy-and-rubber bumpers, which replaced the earlier chrome bumpers, along with an oil cooler, aluminium radiator, and bi-level air-conditioning system.

This 1980 Rolls-Royce Corniche two-door saloon by Mulliner Park Ward and bearing the chassis number CRH50300, was initially ordered through Jack Barclay Ltd on November 1, 1978. It was finally delivered to its first owner, the proprietor of The Lawson Organisation in Croydon, in April 1980. This particular model belongs to the late '50, 000' series, making it quite rare. It boasts advanced mineral oil hydraulics, which offer an improved system configuration and a later dashboard design, along with other enhancements introduced in the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and Spur models. Often referred to as a Fixed Head Coupé (FHC), this model ceased production in 1982, unlike its convertible counterpart, which continued until 1996. The distinguishing feature of this later model is the factory-mounted rear seat head restraints. Finished in Caribbean Aqua paint, this Rolls-Royce Corniche features Dark Blue Vaumol hide upholstery and a Magnolia hide Vaumol headlining. The Dark Blue carpets provide a contrasting touch to the exterior colour. Optional extras chosen for this vehicle include Sundym glass and Dark Blue Vaumol hide for the top roll, instrument board trim, and radio surround, deviating from the traditional Cirrus Black finish. Moreover, a previous owner had a complete set of lambswool over mats made by Easirider, matching the exterior's blue colour and adhering to the original style. Over its 43-year lifespan, this car has covered a mileage of 120,500 miles, averaging less than 3, 000 miles per year. Noteworthy among the previous owners is Alan Fearon of Fearon Rolls-Royce & Bentley Specialists in Newcastle. The car comes with approximately a dozen invoices totalling nearly £25,000, encompassing almost every aspect of the vehicle's maintenance. One notable improvement made to the car is the retrofitting of a fuel injection system. This enhancement is evident from the smooth startup, as the car effortlessly springs to life without any issues. Compared to the single Solex carburettor models from that era, it exhibits more urge and slightly improved fuel efficiency. Alan Fearon performed various maintenance tasks on the car, including bodywork repairs, suspension pipe replacements, rocker cover gasket replacements, wood trim restoration, front brake disc and pad replacements, brake pipe replacements, fuel line replacements, exhaust manifold replacement, loudspeaker upgrades, steering rack repair, and an engine rebuild at around 114,500 miles. Furthermore, other additions to the vehicle include resealing of the front and rear windscreens, installation of a remote control system for the central locking, an immobiliser system, automatic headlight activation, and extended seat runners for taller drivers. Accompanying the car is an extensive collection of documentation, including approximately 60 pages of the original build sheets from Rolls-Royce, detailing the car's construction from June 1979 onwards. Additionally, there are around 30 MOT certificates, although the car is now exempt from MOT requirements as a historic vehicle. Several service and maintenance invoices are available, predating 2018, along with those from Alan Fearon and the current owner. The original owner's handbook and service book with 30 stamps are also present, along with two sets of keys. According to the vendor, the car is ready to be enjoyed by a new owner without any immediate attention required.

For more information, please contact:
Julian Pinkster
julian.pinkster@handh.co.uk
07889 223 904