THE STORY

These two-door, luxury performance vehicles were built by Mulliner Park Ward as a hardtop coupe from 1971 to 1980 .

The name comes from French “corniche” meaning a coastal road along the face of a cliff.

Powered by a Rolls-Royce 6.75 litre OHV 16-valve V8, all cars came with a 3-speed automatic transmission. Cars were fitted with twin SU carburetors  with automatic mixture enrichment and automatic choke. In 1977 the SUs were changed to a Solex four-barrel unit.

Each car had four-wheel independent suspension with coil springs  which was augmented with a hydraulic self levelling system. Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes were standard as was electronic ignition, a dual exhaust with stainless-steel silencers and an air injection system with exhaust gas recirculation. The fuel tank was specifically positioned to prevent rupture or fuel loss in an accident.

Inside the cabin was adorned with Circassian walnut, the veneers were lacquered and hand-polished to a glass-like shine and then tempered in slow ovens for longevity.

Seats were clad in natural grain Connolly Brothers leather that came from animals pastured in fields with electrified fences as opposed to barbed wire to guarantee the  hide would be completely free from scratches and blemishes. Luxurious Wilton hand-tufted wool pile carpets were installed  under foot and in the boot.

Other features included anti-dive geometry, power windows, power steering, power seats and other typical Rolls-Royce refinements.

THE CAR

Solid Rolls-Royce Corniche Coupe finished in Coffee Bean Brown with a contrasting newly finished Moccha coloured roof.

The interior is in original great condition for its age, with Chestnut Connolly leather hide showing original patina in the front. The door cards and carpet are in excellent condition throughout. The walnut veneers that adorn the cockpit are in exceptional condition. The original radio and clock work as does the remote fuel cap opener, the electric ariel and power windows.

The stainless steel, chrome and headlight surrounds are all in good condition, the original wheels and hubcaps sit on whitewall tyres.

The transmission smooth with good gear changes. Steering and brakes are good. The engine bay is indicative of an original car that has been driven and provided much enjoyment.

There are blemishes at various places in the paint and the engine has a noise when running. The advertised price reflects this.

A luxurious two door saloon. On SA historic registration.