Back when it debuted in 1965, the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow was billed as the best car in the world. A bold claim, but one not without foundation, for it was both technologically advanced and a delight to drive.
It also spawned the first ever unitary-construction Bentley, the T1, which debuted in the same year to replace the S-Series models, its traditional round-shouldered Bentley front grille being the only material styling difference from the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow – it was also somewhat lower at bonnet height, giving it a slightly more assertive look.
The T was upgraded to the "T2" in 1977, which featured rack and pinion steering, improved air conditioning, rubber-faced bumpers, a new fascia and a front air dam, similar to the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II.
It continued in production until 1981, but the T2 was always one of the rarest Shadow variations – just 558 were made in a production run lasting almost five years.
Registered in November 1977, car number 32,465 is an early example of the T2 finished in rare Caribbean Aqua (not to be mistaken with the much more common Caribbean Blue) – a colour more commonly seen on the Rolls-Royce Corniche and believed to be the only T2 built in this colour.
The car has been owned by the vendor for over 30 years but shows a keeper change in 2013 as it went from company to private ownership.
It has seen a combination of specialist and home maintenance during that time with much of the work carried out Colbrook Specialists of Stilton – one of the UK’s most respected Rolls-Royce and Bentley independent agents. The car also has a few modifications carried out by the owner including the addition of the smaller back window from a Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith and a Edelbrock carburettor set-up, as bespoke Bentley rocker covers and alloy wheels from a later Bentley Brooklands.
It’s a hugely cherished car that has been part of the family for a very long time and has been maintained cost-no-object during that period by an enthusiastic owner, who is also a capable mechanic.
The History and Paperwork
UK V5C
Tax, MOT and ULEZ/CAZ exempt
Car number SBH32465
Matching body and engine numbers
A number of old tax discs and MOT certificates is included
Several invoices from Colbrook Specialists included but the vendor has a fully equipped home workshop and has taken care of routine maintenance and servicing himself
It would appear the speedometer/odometer unit has been changed at some point
Hand-written letter from the bride for when the Bentley was used as a wedding car
Cherished registration not included in sale
The Condition
Finished in smart Caribbean Aqua with Ivory Everflex roof
Has seen some paintwork in the past, to a very high standard, but is largely original
Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith rear window conversion
Superb overall condition with no notable paint flaws and no visible or evident corrosion
Perfect Bentley bonnet mascot and grille
Original, rare Bentley headlight surrounds
Appears sound underneath
Rare Bentley Brooklands alloys with good quality Goodyear Eagle tyres all-round
Excellent chromework
Optional Lucas front and rear fog lamps
Everflex roof in excellent order, with no evidence of bubbling underneath
Rich piped Biscuit leather seats in wonderful order with only very gentle patina
Mountain Blue lambswool over-rugs
Burr walnut veneers, some minor wear and light cracks to dash
All door cappings in good order
Air conditioning
Four electric windows
Cruise control
External temperature thermometer
Superb, carpeted luggage area
Original Rolls-Royce tool kit
Original jack in leather bag
Jack Barclay Ltd supplier plaque inside glovebox lid and also on door trims
The Mechanics
6,750cc OHV V8
Three-speed auto
Fluid-operated suspension, brakes and power-assisted steering, all in good order
Converted to a US-spec Edelbrock carburettor for improved reliability, performance and fuel economy
Bespoke Bentley rocker covers, commissioned by the vendor
Reported by the vendor to drive superbly – quiet, refined, comfortable and with no untoward noises, with all functions and controls operating correctly
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
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