Description
1979/ 1992 Royale Drophead Convertible DHF 130 Chassis no RD 0892 008 J
One of a limited number of cars which were Factory built (chassis # 8) in August 1992 using components from a 1979 Jaguar XJ6 Mk 2 4. 2 Automatic
Only around 60 Dropheads were produced from 1991 until production ceased in 1998 (see details below)
Strikingly finished in Jaguar Royal blue over white with blue double duck hood.
Twin sidemounts with unused whitewall tyres. Superb chrome
Cream leather seats (4) & interior with blue piping and matching carpets with wood veneers
Jaguar 4. 2 DOHC engine with twin Solex carbs . Automatic gearbox with power steering
Recent work includes new head gaskets fitted, new high output starter & battery
Very high original build quality in superb condition throughout with very limited use
(mainly for weddings).
Stunning vehicle which must be seen to be appreciated, Drives extremely well and very imposing looks when on the road
Historic Road Tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt (although always MOT’d – current expiry date Sept 2024)
Information on the Royale Drophead Model (From the Royale Owners Club Website)
This large, luxury 2 door, four seater convertible was reminiscent of the 1930’s Bentley open top tourer.
The donor vehicle was a Jaguar XJ6 Mk2/ 3 automatic 4. 2litre DOHC naturally aspirated or fuel injected.
Consisting of a substantial factory built chassis and quality fibre glass body parts reinforced with ”Coremat” the car was beautifully finished with leather upholstery, wooden dashboard and drove extremely well. Simply by releasing two locking handles the hood folds down in one operation and can be raised in about 5 seconds. Four adults could be accommodated in comfort for long distance cruising.
Production started steadily in 1991 with orders flowing in on a regular basis from the UK and Europe.
Rave reviews were published from the motoring press at the time.
2 Dropheads were exported to Malta, 2 to Cyprus, 1 to Spain and 1 to Italy. A number have subsequently been exported privately post production
The comprehensive kit in 1992 cost £11, 000 and a fully built factory car for £20, 000.
Around 60 Drophead’s are believed to have been produced when production ceased due to the introduction of SVA in 1998.
Royale Motor Co History
Royale Motor Company (RMC) of Bamber Bridge 1991 – 2001. John and Ann Barlow formed RMC in 1991 with the introduction of the large two door Jaguar XJ6 donor based Royale Drophead in April of that year. This large, luxury 2 door, four seater convertible looked similar to a 1930s Bentley. 2 Dropheads were exported to Malta, 2 to Cyprus, 1 to Spain and 1 to Italy. A fully built car was available in 1992 for £20, 000. .
All Royale models were rear wheel drive available in kit or fully hand built format. They were built on a substantial ladder frame chassis constructed in house, quality aluminium/ GRP body panels (supplied by Moss Mouldings) and built in safety features. Reviews by many kit car magazines and YouTube videos were always extremely positive always proclaiming the build quality, ride and performance.
Sales of these luxury extremely well designed cars were very successful, however after 10 years of production orders declined and in November 2001 John decided to sell the company to Empire Cars in HollandSee description for build history
Imposing 'Great Gatsby' looks and performance
