The history

From 1969 to 1971, Rolls Royce built the first convertible based on a 2-door Silver Shadow, which was later built as the Corniche with slightly more engine capacity. The luxury car, of which only 505 were built, was the most expensive production convertible in the world.  

This Drop Head Coupé was built for the export market and, according to the entry in the original logbook, was delivered on August 26, 1969. In 2008, this example was purchased by its owner in Los Angeles CA and imported to Switzerland.  

This very beautiful example has been repainted over the years and the interior has also been completely renewed. A comprehensive and detailed log shows the stations of this solid and lovingly maintained 5-seater convertible up to the MFK inspection in August 2024. In the past 30 years, around 30,000 km have been driven, including a trip to the home country of the noble Briton.

Bodywork and paintwork

The entire body is solid and undamaged. There is no corrosion and the paintwork shows enormous depth and an excellent finish. There is only a small air pocket under the paint on the front right wheel arch. The paintwork was completely renewed in 2010 by a specialist in Switzerland in accordance with Rolls Royce specifications.

Interieur

The interior is immaculate. From the high-gloss lacquered wood to the fine leather, there are hardly any signs of wear. The workmanship of the materials leaves nothing to be desired. The soft top is undamaged, but not new. The tension on the side sections has increased somewhat. The linkage has been overhauled, the convertible top motor is new.

Engine and mechanics

The entire mechanical system is flawless and extremely well maintained. Very good exhaust emission values and only slightly perceptible bearing noises allow the oil pressure to build up cleanly.

Around CHF 14,000 was invested in the technology and maintenance for the new MFK in August 2024.

Chassis

The chassis and brakes were overhauled for the last two MFK inspections and the tires were replaced. The chassis and underbody are undamaged and partially preserved.

Driving experience

The Rolls Royce Silver Shadow drives like a magic carpet. The air suspension absorbs bumps so gently that even the rear passengers enjoy the ride.

500 Newton meters of torque are enough power to push the 2.3 ton convertible forward. And the complete electrical system, from the seat adjustment and the four windows to the soft top, pampers both driver and passengers.

Recommendation

Rolls Royce is a legend and built the best cars in the world in its day. Only a few could afford the luxury of such a convertible. If you ever wanted to own the most expensive convertible in the world, this convertible was the pinnacle of automotive engineering in the late 1960s. With only 505 examples produced, the Silver Shadow Drop Head Coupé is a coveted collector's vehicle.