The Silver Shadow ushered in the era of the owner-driver at Rolls-Royce, to the extent that it helped keep the brand going through the 1990s. But it all started with the Shadow I—and, quite literally, with this car.
 
This is chassis No. 285, built very early in the production 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, when it wasn’t running. It’s said to have been dry-stored in a barn for around ten years, with a broken engine, but remarkably good overall condition. He then set about restoring it properly, preserving its authenticity while bringing the mechanicals up to spec to ensure reliability.
 
The work included rebuilding the engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes. The original (aftermarket) retractable canvas sunroof was also restored.
 
We’re told that apart from a non-functioning clock and a tachometer that’s sometimes a bit erratic, everything works correctly with no other notable faults.
 
Finished in an elegant blue-and-silver duo, with a superb cream leather interior, it’s a beautifully presented example. 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 older Silver Shadow and an interesting piece of Rolls-Royce history. An MOT valid until April 2028 adds extra peace of mind.
 
On the road, the car has a real presence and constantly draws admiring looks. Thanks to its full restoration, it delivers an impression of solidity and refinement, earning respect wherever it goes.
 
The seller adds:

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

What I appreciate most isn’t only that it’s been beautifully restored, but that it’s also a car with a real story and a real provenance. After almost ten years of ownership and enjoyment, I hope the next owner will carry on its story with the same care and passion. ”

 

The seller adds:

“During the restoration, I was able to discover more information about the car’s early history and its arrival in France. I identified the first owner and learned that it was the third Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow ordered by the French official distributor. The original invoice, dated 19 May 1966, shows a purchase price of £4,400, with 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 have no information about its maintenance history prior to that time. ”

 

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 European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s general terms and conditions.

✓ We ask that non-refundable fees be paid if you are the successful bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and general terms and conditions for the specific fee amounts.

✓ This vehicle is “sold as seen”, on a “take it or leave it, as is and where it is” basis, with no warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it’s standard practice to arrange a full inspection of the vehicle prior to 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 offer or submission price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want to ensure the transaction runs smoothly—just like you do—and that’s why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK that are listed on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to confirm they have no basic insurance database markers for damage or theft, and that they are not subject to any financial charge, letting you bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off in the event of a total loss when the listing is placed on Car & Classic and we provide write-off category 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’s 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 result in additional customs duties and import taxes. If you’d like, we can recommend a third-party transport company to help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.