It’s incredible the kind of deals you can get on 1980s Rolls-Royces. Aficionados of the marque like their cars new, and used examples, although cheap to buy, are often huge sinkholes of need. Parts prices are eye-watering on these cars. But on Craigslist in Vancouver, BC, Canada, for just $27,000 or thereabouts, there’s this all-original 1981 Silver Spirit “in exceptional, collector-grade condition.” And that’s accurate. Thanks for the tip, T.J.

It’s in an apparently rare limited-edition shade of blue, with a matching interior in navy. It’s only had one owner, who apparently kept meticulous care of it (and retained all the records, $30,000 worth). Despite being from the frozen north, this garage-kept beauty is rust free and mint, inside and out. The photos reveal nothing worrying.

Among the highlights:

• Everything works flawlessly – from dash lights and gauges to seat recliners and mirrors;
• Impeccable wood trim and factory-original details throughout;
• Two original Rolls-Royce keys, manuals, and factory booklets included;
• 75-liter aluminum overhead-valve V-8 with Bosch K-Jetronic electronic fuel injection;
  GM TH400 3-speed automatic transmission;
• Self-leveling hydro-pneumatic suspension – smooth, majestic ride;
• Automatic climate control in full working order;
• Equipped with a period-correct Pioneer AM/FM cassette stereo.

The Rolls has been around the block a few times, and has 125,000 miles on the odometer. But the usage was good for it, and those apparently weren’t hard miles. But if an engine rebuild is looming, watch out, but it isn’t likely. The Flying Spurs blog advises, “Properly maintained, the all-aluminum V8 engine is good for 500,000 miles: check the service history and look for a clean and cared-for engine bay. Stuck hydraulic tappets and worn cams result from missed servicing—listen for a rattly top end. Lack of corrosion inhibitor will lead to overheating and engine damage.”

The car comes with all its original literature, certainly a plus. The Silver Spirit was produced from 1980 to 1997, so this is an early build. Assuming the engine and the GM-sourced THM400 3-speed automatic gearbox are OK, I’d worry about the hydro-pneumatic self-leveling suspension—the bane of old Citroëns. Luckily, the interior looks mint, because leather and woodwork would cut deep into the purse.

The owner tells us that this is “a star car, featured in one movie and two TV series. [It’s] perfect for collectors, enthusiasts, or anyone seeking timeless luxury with a touch of Hollywood history.”

Make sure you have a garage for it, and drive it like you love it. Perhaps you can double the mileage without taking a significant loss. The Spirit is similar to the Silver Spur (the long-wheelbase version of the Spirit), and Classic.com puts them together with a low price of $14,822.

This one is above average, and it’s also in excellent condition. And that’s very important. I hear importing from Canada isn’t difficult, but cross-border relationships aren’t the best right now.