Lot details Registration No: RUK 495 Chassis No: SRH36596 Mot Expiry: Dec 2010
The Shadow's arrival in 1965 was none too soon and did much to reverse the notion that Rolls-Royce was falling behind the times. It resulted in many firsts for the company, including: unitary construction rather than separate body/chassis units, disc rather than drum brakes and independent rear suspension. Though shorter and narrower than the Silver Cloud III it replaced, the John Polwhele Blatchley-penned Shadow nevertheless possessed greater space for both luggage and passengers and certainly boasted far more modern looks. At launch it was powered by a 172bhp V8 engine of 6230cc, though this was enlarged to 6750cc in 1970. Early cars employed the same GM automatic transmission as the Silver Cloud, but this was superseded by the much vaunted Turbo Hydramatic system from 1970 onwards. The car's famed 'magic carpet' ride was achieved courtesy of a high-pressure hydraulic system licensed from Citroen. Initially it featured self-levelling at both ends, but this was deleted from the front in 1969. The combination of changes introduced in 1977 were sufficient for Rolls-Royce to dub the new model 'Shadow II'. The upgrades included: a switch from recirculating ball to rack-and-pinion steering, revised front end suspension geometry, and a change of carburettors, exhaust and cooling fans all aimed at improving fuel consumption. More visible alterations included the rubber-tipped bumpers, a deeper radiator shell and different door handles with more deeply recessed buttons. Still more evident was the bib spoiler below the front bumper and new style (spring-back) door mirror that was adjustable from inside the car. The Motor magazine test of 1977 stated, "In its latest form, the Shadow, though no sports car, is much more enjoyable to drive than it used to be. Rolls-Royce say it took eight years to develop. Their time was not wasted. Inevitably, there are areas in which the Shadow can be (and is) surpassed by other cars. But there is no other car in the world that combines all its qualities."
The RHD 1979 example offered features brown coachwork complemented by a cream leather interior. The car reportedly comes with "a full service history" and is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035