What should I look for in '80's Rolls Royce

I'm currently looking for a well-sorted late 70s/early 80s Corniche. I know the issues and am going to roll the dice. It will be a drive-once-a-month cruiser. I'm just drawn to them even though I've read the horror stories.

We'll see how it works out.


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Yesssss! I like that older body style more than the one I looked at, although I think they share some similar mechanicals. Like you said, these cars just have a gravitas that draws you in. Hope you find what you're looking for, would love to hear some first-hand impressions of one.

 

I've looked at and driven about 5 so far. All but one had issues. And the one that didn't have issues and was well sorted was red. Not my cup of tea.

Looking for a black one. I found one in L.A. that looked great on paper, but once I inspected it, I ran away.

It was an '88 Corniche II. Exterior was in great shape. But once you started it up, it was leaking power steering fluid from the steering rack, the rear hydraulic suspension was stiff as a rock, only 2 headlights worked, AC didn't blow at all, only 1 window worked, the veneers were cracked, it reeked of mold, the convertible top was separated from the frame and I found mushrooms (I kid you not) growing behind the back seat.

It's a shame that so many people have let a lot of these cars go.

 

I live in LA and own a 87 1/2 corniche II with 30k miles in grey. Bought it last year and love it. Extremely reliable so far, except my window motors are a little tired. Let me know if you want to drive mine.

Jeremy
818-645-5459

 

Look on the Australian RROC website. It gives a very detailed install for relays and grounds to the electric windows. I did It and now my windows are super fast. $20 each window in parts and 1 hours labour each.

 

Thanks for the offer! I've driven a few, and hopefully, I'll pull the trigger soon.

 

Please post a couple of pictures! Especially if the interior is red!

Grey over red ought to look far sexier than brown over tan! Thanks

 

Here are some pics.
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Very nice!!!

 

During my daily search, I stumbled upon this at Hemmings:


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