The Silver Shadow ushered in the era of the owner-driver at Rolls-Royce, to the extent that it supported the marque through to the 1990s. But everything began with the Shadow I—and literally, with this car.
 
This is chassis no. 285, built very early in the run, and it’s thought to be the third Silver Shadow imported into France by the official distributor.
 
The seller acquired the car in 2016, in non-running condition. It is said to have been stored dry in a barn for around ten years, with a broken engine, but in surprisingly good condition. He then set about restoring it properly, keeping its authenticity intact while bringing the mechanicals up to standard to ensure reliability.
 
The work included rebuilding the engine, transmission, suspension and brakes. The original folding canvas sunroof (aftermarket) was also restored.
 
We’re told that, aside from a non-working clock and a tachometer that can be a little erratic at times, everything works correctly with no other notable faults.
 
Finished in an elegant duo of blue and silver, with a superb cream leather interior, it’s an exceptionally well-presented motor car. We’re also told that over the past eight years it has regularly passed its biennial MOT.
 
This is a great opportunity to acquire an old Silver Shadow and an interesting slice of Rolls-Royce history. Having an MOT valid until April 2028 adds extra peace of mind.
 
On the road, the car has a strong presence and constantly draws admiring glances. Thanks to a thorough restoration, it gives a real impression of solidity and refinement, and earns respect wherever it goes.
 
The seller notes :

“Today, it’s thought to be the oldest Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow in French specification still in road-going condition in France.

What I appreciate most isn’t just that it’s beautifully restored, but also that it has a genuine story and genuine provenance. After almost ten years of ownership and enjoyment, I hope the next owner will continue its story with the same care and passion. ”

 

The seller notes :

“During the restoration, I was able to discover more information about the car’s early history and how it arrived in France. I identified the first owner and learned that it was the third Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow ordered by the official French distributor. The original invoice, dated 19 May 1966, shows a purchase price of £4,400, transport included.

I bought the car in 2016 in complete but non-running condition. It had been stored for more than ten years in a closed shed, with an engine that had been damaged. Despite this long period of inactivity, the bodywork was in good condition. Unfortunately, I do not have any information about its maintenance history before this period.”

 

This sale is subject to Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from the European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions.

✓ We require non-refundable fees to be paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general terms and conditions for the specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “sold as seen”, on a “as is, where is” basis and with no warranty. The photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final price of the offer or submission, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to go smoothly, just like you do, and that’s why cars and motorcycles registered in the United Kingdom and listed on Car & Classic are subject to a HPI check to verify that they show no basic insurance database markers for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to a financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as written off under a total loss claim at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic and provide category write-off labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always useful to carry out a full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you’d like, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.