Rolls-Royce began suffering a sales shortfall in the 1960s, a victim of its culture of tradition. This tenacity had already prevented the adoption of the first, modernized design drawn by John Blatchley a decade before, for its new Silver Cloud. Instead, the company continued its conservative approach, introducing the new model in 1955 as another coach-built endeavor, with Rolls-Royce providing the chassis and driveline, but clients ordering a body separately. This arrangement was endangered as coachbuilders began to fail financially. Too, more owners were driving their own cars, with less need for a chauffeur. The Silver Cloud managed to cater to both tradition and practicality for a time, but the company needed a new act. Enter the Silver Shadow, a thoroughly modern, technically innovative approach to luxury. Monocoque construction, independent suspension, and a lighter, more maneuverable vehicle were necessary to meet the market. Though the new car shocked traditionalists, its strong sales confirmed the company’s strategy. Meanwhile, nearly sixty years later, collectors appreciate these personal saloons from Rolls more than ever.

The car’s powerplant was Rolls’ long-lived 6.2 liter 90° V8, made of aluminum alloy with porting inspired by the company’s aircraft engines. Rolls had a policy of not revealing horsepower or top speeds, but guesses range around 180 bhp and 115 mph. The transmission was from General Motors – the Turbo-HydraMatic 400. This example has been stored for years, and the motor turns, but the buyer will be spending time or money in recommissioning expenses. (Be sure to acquire a socket extension bar – you’ll need it to fish out those sparkplugs.) Early cars had a self-leveling suspension system at all four corners; the front portion was eliminated in 1969 because it was considered unnecessary. Disc brakes all ’round were standard of course.

The Silver Shadow offered two wheelbases – 119.5″ and 123.5″ – both shorter than the corresponding Silver Cloud models. Despite this, the cabin was roomier – a benefit generated by moving to monocoque construction. This interior is in respectable condition considering its long neglect. Trim pieces are stacked in the passenger’s footwell. For those looking for the Grey Poupon, it will probably come from that back seat tray. About 30,000 Silver Shadows were made across the series through 1980; no estimates of US deliveries in LHD form are available.

This Rolls is advertised here on craigslist, for $3900 or best offer; though the ad is published in the Portland, Oregon edition of craigslist, the car is actually located in Kennewick, Washington. Thanks to Matt H for finding this derelict Brit for us! The seller does have the tail lights, hubcaps, and headlamp rings. No word on rust; the panels appear straight, except for damage to the left front fender. No doubt this car will absorb plenty of greenbacks to bring it to life, even if the new owner is a talented mechanic. A steadily rising price trend over the last few years, along with the superb ride and glorious appearance of a well-restored Rolls might justify the investment. Hagerty pegs even a fair RHD car at around $13k. Four-figure cars are becoming rare. What do you think this Rolls is worth?