2001 Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible

Listed on Bonhams|Cars Online is a 2001 Rolls-Royce Corniche with the identification number X68171. Understood to be in original condition — the paint and trim codes match what's on the car. It's not the last convertible that Rolls Royce ever did, but the last to be offered with the old, punchy V8 engine.

As you can make out, the Corniche was styled in a way to be in line with the Rolls-Royce's design language at the time, hence making it appear like the Silver Seraph, despite having shared mechanicals with the Bentley Azure. It looks like a proper Rolls-Royce with both the roof down and up, and with the optional whitewall tires, it carries on with the same panache as you'd expect from a Rolls-Royce.

The exterior of the 2001 Corniche that we have here is quite representative of a modern car that's been maintained fairly well. The bodywork along with the rather nice pinstripe looks great, and save for a few scratches and swirl marks (especially visible on the chrome bits), this Corniche looks top-class. The fabric roof has some fading issues, although we don't spot any damage on it, either.

Space for four, high-quality leather interior, wood all around, and even woollen carpet, there's not much else you could have asked for in a luxurious cabin from the early 2000s. And since it was the early 2000s, the Corniche's interior also benefitted from powered memory seats up front with heating, electronic release for the boot and the top, climate control, a car phone, and even an Alpine in-car audio system, among other things.

There's not much that detracts the cabin from being in the same state as it'd have been new, two decades ago. The seats, both front and rear, look to be in good shape. There's minimal use-related wear, too.

The Rolls-Royce Corniche shared its platform with the Azure but was styled like the Silver Seraph. Developed and made in Crewe, it was powered by a 6.75-liter V8 engine, came mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, and had bits like auto ride control, ABS, traction control, etc. Like pretty much on the rest of the car, there's no instance of rust that we can spot. Under the bonnet, too, it looks clean.

As the last Rolls-Royce convertible to be produced at the Crewe plant, the Corniche V was a pretty special product. Only 374 examples are said to be made, and this was when for a brief moment in the brand's history, it was produced by VW, waiting to be brought under the BMW brand.

With an estimated value of between $60,000 and $90,000, the Rolls-Royce Corniche can be a great entry to modern Rolls-Royce ownership but without having to trade rarity or the extremely torque-rich V8 engine for modernity.

While that's true for nearly every Rolls-Royce, it'd be hard to find a car that looks as good, drives as well, and makes absolutely no drama while doing so. It came at a time when two globally well-known car brands were (metaphorically) up in arms to add Rolls-Royce to their portfolio — and a drive in the Corniche might tell you why!

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for several years and we have no history available beyond that shown in the photography section.

We have not started or driven this vehicle so we cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. The vehicle will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Due to California emissions laws, please note that this vehicle may only be sold to an out-of-state resident for use outside of California or to a licensed automotive dealer.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/The Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/The Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/The Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government or other delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.