The original Silver Shadow was the first Rolls Royce to be built around a v8 engine. It was the first Rolls to be built with unitary construction and fully independent suspension. It was Rolls Royce’s response to the world telling them they had fallen behind in the times. They wouldn’t have it, and their response was heard. It was a thrilling machine to behold.
The Silver Shadow II, upgraded with over 2,000 improvements over the original Silver Shadow, completely transformed the vehicle into an even more driver-oriented vehicle. These improvements included moving to a rack-and-pinion steering system, upgrading the brakes on all four corners to discs, as well as improvements to the suspension to make it more responsive. All of these changes mean the vehicle had a notably improved driving experience.
This example is an original spec, unmodified and showing little signs of wear for the mileage driven. The current owner states that it has been garage kept for its whole life, only used on dry days. The interior has been well maintained, with no restorations taking place, just protective leather food used to keep it looking sharp. A previous owner has had the vehicle exterior repainted but kept it to its original colours.
MOT exempt, current MOT valid until 22 February 2023
Qualifies for historic vehicle tax exemption
The current owner recently bought the vehicle with intentions to bring it to their property on the coast and keep it in the garage. Due to a change of plans, that property is now sold, and the vehicle’s owner does not have any additional garage space to permanently store the car. Therefore, it’s their wish that the vehicle is rehomed so as to protect its current state.
The vehicle has been driven less than 550 miles per year for the last 10 years, offering a snapshot of how well the vehicle has been stored and used only in the dry. It has been MoT’d nearly every year to confirm the roadworthiness.
All electrical equipment said to be in working order
Stunning wood panels
Clean boot, with spare tyre present
Getting into this car, you’ll instantly note the top-spec materials used in the design of the interior. The touch-and-feel of the leather, the wood panels, plush sheepskin carpets, and elegantly designed buttons, knobs, and instruments are second to none.
The interior shows little signs of wear and tear, and it is complete and all-original. The current and previous owners have only administered preventative maintenance to the leather, using just leather food in order to keep it from being sun damaged or dried out due to age. We’re assured that there has never been any leather paint or connolising to this vehicle. Rolls Royce collectors will also note that all of the sheepskin rugs and footrests are in place and in good condition, which is not always the case with vehicles of this age.
The headlining is in near-perfect condition. The door panels and interior trim are equally glorious. However, there is a crack in the wood panelling on the driver’s door, see photos of that.
The current owner also assures us that all of the electronics are in working order. All windows operate smoothly, the recently replaced second-hand aerial functioned as it should, and the radio still works. Upon showing us the smoothness and ease with which the electronic windows went up and down, we could only remark that it was a sure sign of the design and build quality of the vehicle’s entirety.
The boot is very spacious and tidy, and still contains the original spare tyre and an almost-complete tool kit. While there is a medium-sized hole in the centre carpet, the overall appearance of the boot is clean and tidy.
Chestnut and Honey colourway – perfectly suits the elegance of the ‘70s
Brightwork still gleaming
The exterior of this Rolls is in above average condition for its age. While there are a couple of light scratches, chips from the road, and small paint bubbles noted, these issues are nothing major to note, and they leave room for improvements to be made if desired, or just left as they are to fully enjoy the vehicle as it currently sits.
The window glass is in good condition, rather tidy and with the small chips expected from normal use, but nothing larger than a small stone impact.
The wiper trim, rubbers, and exterior plastics are all intact, but the body trim rubbers/seals could use a refresh or replacement (see photos) if desired.
The headlight and taillight lenses are clear, and the indicator lenses show no hint of fogging often associated with a car of this age.
The original wheels are perfectly fine but could benefit from a refurbish, as the colour-matched ring does show some rust bubbles, but only if you look closely. Two tyres were replaced in 2014, but they have seen less than 2,500 miles since then. All four Avon Turbosteel 70 tyres are matching and still have plenty of life!
Upon cold-starting the vehicle when we set off for the photo location, the generous V8 sprang to life with no hesitation. The automatic choke did a thoroughly good job, as the engine settled to idle with a subtle but pleasant exhaust note.
The current owner reports the car to be in excellent mechanical condition with steering, brakes, engine, drivetrain and running gear performing as well as it should, and better than expected for the age. The automatic transmission connects smoothly into all gears.
The owner also states that the air conditioning, while still in working order electronically and mechanically, does not currently function due to the need for a modern compressor/condenser which can run the current more eco-friendly refrigerant gas.XGsvNDWatHc3eeWSRmbo5e46JenwKZec20uPHQ8k.jpeg581.48 KB
Summary
When spoken, the name Rolls Royce evokes a vision of extreme elegance, and a no-expenses-spared level of luxury. This Silver Shadow II is no exception to that notion. Everywhere one looks, they can sense the time and care put into providing the driver and passengers with the absolute maximum amount of comfort and enjoyment.
The Shadow II’s robustly engineered design, use of high-quality materials, attention to detail and clinical build quality make it one of the easiest-to-own classic cars available today. This is an excellent opportunity to own a vehicle which certainly deserves the name Rolls Royce, in an enviable colour combination, which speaks directly to the era which it was designed.
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