Rolls-Royce followed its traditional body-on-chassis Silver Cloud with a new model in 1965 – the Silver Shadow. The new car struck an ominous note for the bespoke coachbuilders who had worked with Rolls-Royce for generations, for it was the company’s first unit-body model. No longer were buyers able to purchase a chassis to send to a favorite coachbuilder. Designed by John Blatchley, the Silver Shadow was narrower and shorter than its predecessor, yet offered a more spacious cabin. That improvement came courtesy of the space-saving qualities of unitary construction, but also from the car’s flat, upright sides and generous greenhouse. This example is a long wheelbase version, measuring 123.5″ – about 3.5″ shorter than the LWB Silver Cloud. Still, the car could be comfortably equipped with a divider for the few remaining chauffeur-driven owners, though dividers were outlawed in the US after 1972 (with some exceptions). This example is for sale in Los Angeles, California, and the seller notes it has been driven primarily on sunny Sundays.
Mechanically, the Silver Shadow saw several improvements over the Cloud. Disc brakes replaced drums all around, and a hydropneumatic self-leveling system licensed from Citroën along with a newly designed independent rear suspension gave the car its famously smooth ride. The first Silver Shadows shared the Silver Cloud’s 6230 cc V8 engine, but in 1970, displacement was increased to 6750 ccs. Both engines were equipped with dual SU carburetors and gearchanges were via a three-speed automatic (North American cars). Though Rolls-Royce never quoted horsepower ratings, the larger V8’s output is variously estimated at 190 to 220 hp. This car has been in storage for at least two years, which means recommissioning. Do not fail to understand the expense of owning a Rolls. Parts are dear enough, but finding a competent mechanic is another challenge altogether. Any doubts about this assertion will be dispelled after a review (better sit down and take out the smelling salts) of the invoices included in the sale of this ’76 Shadow, sold at another venue a few months ago. Just a few of the bills amounted to well more than the car itself cost.
The dash of the Silver Shadow evolved with time, delivery destination, and body style. This one has cracks in the finish. The driver’s seat upholstery is said to be worn, and the leather-covered padding around the console is wrinkled. The steering wheel needs refinishing, too. These cars were equipped with lots of power options – when I think of power options from the 1970s, I start to hyperventilate. My guess is that these fragile electricals will need plenty of expert attention and a bountiful wallet.
The LWB Silver Shadow typically had an Everflex roof, with two badges at the bases of the C-pillars. The passenger-side badge is present, but the Everflex and the other badge are missing. Corrosion can be seen around the rear window. This car was repainted five years ago – likely the owner took that opportunity to remove the roof covering. This car is listed here on eBay with bidding at $8300. The reserve is no longer in play. Admittedly, vintage Rolls-Royce prices have been rising, but look askance at bargain cars in this arena. Best to buy the best and hope for the best.
Possibly Larry Flynt’s former car! That leaves some to imagination. Who else was in the back seat whilst chauffer driven thru the southwest? I like the color but what a headache to restore or just get running reliably.
I lived in Lichfield and saw Rolls Royce body shells being transported along the A38 as it was then or still is. Three at a time one on a sharply angled frame on the back of a long wheel base Land Rover which was pulling a two tier trailer, so three shells in total no paint just a light coating of oil. Add British weather yes not long before the rot set in .
My late brother (a successful business man) bought a 62 LHD Cloud in the late 60S. It was like riding ON a cloud and always attracted attention. He spent over $25,000 over time with a complete repaint and original hides shipped from England. While keeping the Cloud, he purchased a new 76 Shadow, then trading it for a Corniche. Meanwhile his wife was driving a Mercedes. For some reason beyond my comprehension, he sold the Corniche (keeping the Cloud) and switched to Mercedes. For me, the Mercedes ( he and his wife had 7 over the years) was a definite step in the wrong direction. The price of buying a ROLLS-ROYCE is much less than the price of maintaining it. I never was able to afford a ROLLS-ROYCE, settling happily for Previously Owned 😉 Lincolns, Cadillacs and other upscale vehicles. Now a Vintage Rolls Canardly (Roll down one hill and Can ardly get up the next), I’m fortunate to still be able to drive my 2007 Town Car Signature Limited. Today’s so called luxury Peasant vehicles are absolutely revolting. So ,let them eat dust from my Town Car! 😉 I’m on to VERSAILLES! 🏰 😎 🤣
Rick,
Crystal chandeliers and sconces, candelabras, Austrian shades, flocked wallpaper……. and no Rolls Royce?
So how come you didn’t buy a used Rolls off your brother?
Well ANGEL, my brother actually sold the Corniche for $17,000 needing work. When I mentioned I might have been interested (although it would have been a struggle), he said he hadn’t thought I’d be interested. Actually I’ve been happy with my American 🇺🇸 LAND YACHTS. C^est LA Vie!
ANGEL… have you ever heard Charlie Prides CRYSTAL CHANDELIERS? If not, you need to hear it! Seems written for Us! But somehow a little different. We have the CRYSTAL CHANDELIERS, but are the ONES who have been left! 😔 Let’s go on with the Show!
I bought my first Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow in the mid-80s, and have owned several since, including a ’79 Silver Wraith II (a long-wheelbase version of the Silver Shadow) which I rebuilt over last winter.
Generally, I would avoid a 1976 in favour of a “Series II” model (1977-1980) with rack & pinion steering an d other improvements.
There are lots of cheap, neglected Rollers available, with many needing far more expenditure than they will ever be worth. Typically the rusty ones are destined to be parts cars.
This car does not appear to be rusty, so it may be actually be a worthwhile project…… But Only for someone with the skills, tools, and experience to properly recommission it. Paying a specialist shop could cost (at least) $25K to get it into decent driver-grade condition.
Especially when buying a Rolls project, you should always have a genuine expert inspect it before making an offer. This one may already be priced too high, considering it is a Series I car.
Ah, Rick, Rick, Rick, you are just full of knowledge. No, I’ve never heard of him but as usual, there’s a lot I’ve never heard of.
I was just asking BF HOW do I contact someone on BF if I want to buy their car? They won’t let me or anyone else post personal info, so, how are you suppose to contact someone on here to buy their car?
Reasonable question, don’t you think?
You know, ANGEL, a FORMER 💕 partner often said that I was the COMPLETE Compendium of completely useless information! Still, I can’t seem to figure out what’s going on in the BARN or this 🤪 world 😜! Always LUV YA! But for sure check out Charlie Prides CRYSTAL CHANDELIERS! You WILL understand.
Rick,
I WAS going to say the same thing about useless information but I didn’t want you to get insulted or upset. You should know by now my sense of humor is as warped and sarcastic as yours. 😆
Ah! A new day dawns 🌞 here at the BARN! Have no fears, my friend! I DO believe we are soul mates separated by miles of often Rocky 😉 Roads. We often seem to be in Another World (great Soap) searching for the Guiding Light (the BEST soap). Your wit and wisdom are much appreciated. The EX is another story! 🤮. Wishing you and ALL Barn Finders a great day, as I roll down hill hoping I CAN get up the next! 😲 🤣
OH! Did your Uncle Vito agree to let me become an Honorary Italiano? 🙏 I promise to kiss ONLY the ring 💍. Maybe we could even dance at the Copa Cabana. Hasta LA Pasta! 😃 😅 🤣.
Surprised Rolls of all companies is stingy with the size of the brake pedal & length of the column shifter. lol
The column shifter on this car is held together with tape! Actually not a big surprise…… Although the transmission internals are GM TH400, it is actuated electrically. The shifter arm is made of delicate chrome-plated tubing, requiring only a very light touch to trigger a switch, connected to the actuator on the transmission.
It is actually quite common to find these cars with bent/broken column shifters. A dead battery or other electrical problem can prevent the transmission from shifting. When the car won’t shift out of park, many people just keep pulling harder on the arm. About half the Shadows I have owned had bent shift arms when I bought them.