Lot 149 - 1980 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II
| Lot Number | 149 |
| Registration | KTA 175V |
| Chassis Number | SRH0039468 |
| Engine Number | 0039468 |
| Odometer reading | 78,000 miles |
| Result | Sold - £16,414 |
- Subject to recent full brake rebuild
- Stunning comprehensive service history
The Silver Shadow broke new ground for the Crewe Company in a number of key areas, from the sophisticated fully independent suspension with an advanced self-levelling system to four wheel ventilated disc brakes. The only major components carried over from the Silver Cloud III was the excellent, all aluminium, 6.2 litre V8 and four-speed automatic transmission with fluid flywheel, the latter replaced by GM’s excellent 400 three-speed box in October 1968 while the engine was enlarged to 6.75 litres the following year. Although no power output was ever divulged by the company, merely described as ‘adequate’, the Silver Shadow’s superior aerodynamics meant the car was perfectly happy cruising the motorways. No less than eight individual Connolly hides were used to trim the interior of each car and the standard of finish on the upholstery, rich Wilton carpets and burr walnut veneers was impeccable. Each Silver Shadow employed 20 electric motors, powering everything from the radio antenna to adjusting the individual front seats. Build quality on the Silver Shadow remained unsurpassed, each taking no less than 12 weeks to build from start to finish.
This particular Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II can only be described as a credit to its current owner and our vendor. Any Rolls-Royce regardless of value carries with it a significant cost of ownership, one that if scrimped upon is detrimental to the car so it is refreshing to find within the history file significant bills for servicing and maintenance. The all-important full brake rebuild was carried out in 2018 at 77,000 miles and any works carried out during our vendor’s ownership have been regardless of cost which has amounted to £12,000+ during the past three years alone.
First registered on 1st February 1980 and sold by H.A.Fox Ltd in Torquay this example was specified in its current colours of Willow Gold with Magnolia Hide. The original complete book pack shows that within the stamped service booklet this Silver Shadow resided in London with Kenning Ltd, London servicing the car in September 1980 and a further four times. A total of 20 stamps in total can be found including three on the back page of the completed book and one further invoice from 2018 for a full service and subsequent fluid and filter changes annually thereafter. The history and recent works to this Rolls-Royce amount to a staggering care of ownership and the car presents very well indeed. Not to be confused with lesser and more poorly maintained examples, purchasing KTA 175V would, we believe, be the ‘smart choice’ and represents fabulous value for money for a car that is increasing in value year on year.
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Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.