Rolls-Royce Corniche Series I

Introduced in 1971, the Rolls-Royce Corniche was an evolution of the Silver Shadow two-door coupe and convertible models bodied by Mulliner Park Ward. It retained the Silver Shadow's 6.75-liter V8 engine and its complex Citroën-licensed hydropneumatic suspension and braking system, but wrapped it in a more personal and stylish package. Available as a fixed-head coupe or a more glamorous drophead coupe, the Corniche represented the pinnacle of open-top British luxury for its time.

Collectors appreciate the Corniche for its hand-built quality and timeless design. It offers a more intimate, owner-driver experience than the larger four-door saloons while sacrificing none of the brand's legendary comfort and silence. Convertibles are especially sought after for their top-down elegance. The Corniche offers a significant amount of prestige and craftsmanship for the money compared to contemporary rivals from Aston Martin or Ferrari.

With an average sale price around $44,000, the Corniche I market is surprisingly accessible. The wide price range, from project cars under $1,000 to concours-level convertibles topping $129,000, reflects the huge disparity in condition and body style. Well-maintained drivers represent a strong value, but buyers should be aware that deferred maintenance on the complex hydraulic and electrical systems can lead to staggering repair bills.

Prices for the Corniche I range from as low as $500 for major projects to $129,944 for top-tier examples.