The Rolls-Royce Corniche began in 1971 as a more personal, two-door version of the Silver Shadow, available as a coupe or convertible. Hand-built by Mulliner Park Ward, it was the brand's flagship convertible for over 30 years, spanning five distinct series and using the venerable 6.75-liter V8 throughout its production run. Its combination of bespoke craftsmanship and open-air luxury made it an icon of wealth and style.
Collectors are drawn to the Corniche for its timeless elegance and the sheer presence that only a classic Rolls-Royce can offer. While early cars represent an accessible entry point to the brand, later models like the fuel-injected Corniche II, the airbag-equipped Corniche IV, and the turbocharged final-series Corniche V are more desirable for their added refinement and rarity. With only 374 Corniche V models built, they are the most collectible of the modern variants.
The market for the Corniche is broad, with an average sale price around $65,000. This reflects the vast difference in condition and series, from neglected projects to pristine, low-mileage final editions. While the initial purchase can seem reasonable, prospective owners should be aware that running costs, particularly for the complex hydraulic systems, are substantial and can easily exceed the car's value.
Buying Tips
- The Citroën-derived high-pressure hydraulic system for the brakes and suspension is notoriously expensive to fix. Check for warning lights, leaks, and sluggish operation.
- Rust is a serious concern, especially on pre-1980 cars. Inspect the sills, wheel arches, floors, and suspension mounting points carefully.
- The 6.75-liter V8 is robust, but watch for signs of head gasket failure like milky oil or coolant loss. A full service history is crucial.
- Examine the convertible top's condition and operation, as replacing the fabric and hydraulic components is costly. Also check for water damage to the wood veneers and leather inside.
Prices range from as low as $500 for project cars to $330,000 for pristine or rare final-series examples.
867 Rolls-Royce Corniche vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 96 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Run a business in this market?
Get Hypercars OS
