Lot details
Registration No: RGF469P
Chassis No: DRH22585
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

The Series 1A Corniche was produced during 1976 and the early part of 1977 as a bridge between the original Corniche model introduced in 1971 and the new version which was to be put in production to satisfy the revised US construction and use requirements in 1978. The design was engineered to save as much weight as possible and this car is some 500 pounds lighter than its predecessor. The engine performance was upgraded slightly by an increase in compression ratio and the turning circle reduced from 38 feet to a little over 32 feet.

Finished in Garnet with black leather interior and black mohair hood this example was first registered on 10th February 1976. "Henry" joined the vendor's collection in December 1998, the owner advising that the previous keeper had enjoyed the car for a period of about nine years but had used it only sparingly. In the current ownership the car has had restoration work, servicing and maintenance carried out by specialists Royce Service & Engineering of Betchworth winning a concours prize in 2002. A split tonneau cover has been added allowing the hood to be raised without releasing the tonneau. Other concessions to practicality include the fitment of a hidden detachable towbar and conversion to run on LPG which the vendor informs us returns approximately 30 mpg on a petrol-cost equivalent basis.

Now only offered for sale due to a rationalising of the owner's collection, he describes "Henry's" bodywork to be "excellent" with "very good" paintwork. Whilst the engine, transmission and interior trim are all said to be "good". Displaying some 93,000 miles on the odometer the car is offered with Swansea V5, service history, three stamped service books and owner's wallet. The registration number is being retained.