One owner from new

One owner from new
1990 ROLLS-ROYCE CORNICHE III CONVERTIBLE
Registration No. 1 SHY
Chassis No. SCAZD00A6LCH30108
Engine No. 70583L41I/NEL
Black with magnolia interior.
Engine: V8, two pushrod operated overhead valves per cylinder, MK Motronic electronic fuel injection, 6,750cc; Gearbox: four speed automatic; Suspension: independent front with coil springs and anti-roll bar and independent rear with coil springs; Brakes: four wheel discs with ABS. Right hand drive.
Named after an area in the South of France, it seemed fitting for Rolls-Royce to launch the Corniche in the coastal town of Nice in 1971. It met with widespread acclaim and not long after, the factory had orders flooding in. This typically luxurious offering from the Crewe firm was capable of 0-60 mph in less than 10 seconds with a top speed around the 120 mph mark. With the option of roof-down motoring and the ability of carrying four people in supreme comfort, this really was a most attractive proposition. The timeless elegance of the Corniche is proven by the fact that the model remained in the range for almost twenty-five years, with little visual revision, until 1995 when it was finally discontinued. One could even be inclined to question why production was halted at all; from its regal seating position the Corniche offers a truly glorious driving experience and with its abundance of untapped power and typically effortless steering the lure of this gentle giant is irresistible.
By 1990, when this Corniche III was built, the model had been developed in line with production revisions on the Silver Spirit II. These included new inlaid woodwork and leather covered steering wheel, but not automatic ride control, which would arrive in 1992. Just 452 Corniche III convertibles were built.
Offered directly from a deceased estate, the Rolls-Royce was purchased new by its late owner, and first registered on 1st January 1990. The precise service history of the car is not known, but it is thought to have been regularly serviced by H. R. Owen and was MoT'd until June last year.
The car is presented in generally tidy order, the paintwork is fair to good, and the hood is operational, though lacking a cover. It does run and drive but owing to the lack of use in recent months, Christie's would advise that it be thoroughly serviced and checked over before being returned to the road. The driver's side quarter window is missing and requires replacement.
'1 SHY' its attractive registration number is on the V5 document and included in the sale.