1974 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Saloon

The new Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow was modern and shocked the world upon its introduction in 1965, especially for traditionalist Rolls-Royce customers. It was smaller all around by outward dimensions, but offered more trunk and interior space than the outgoing Cloud, thanks to the unibody construction. It had an independent rear suspension, disc brakes, and a very unique twin-circuit braking and hydraulic leveling suspension system used under license from Citroen. The leveling suspension was revised and improved, and the engine increased from 6.2L to 6.75L. Body styles soon included a two-door coupe and convertible, followed a short time later by a longer-wheelbase version.

By the time production of the Silver Shadow ceased in 1980, over 30,000 examples had been sold. In comparison, approximately 7,000 examples of the Silver Cloud were built from 1955 to 1966. To date, the Silver Shadow remains the sales record holder of the Rolls-Royce family.

This particular 1974 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow is finished in blue with full-size wheel covers and rides on white-stripe tires. Dual headlights flank the infamous vertical grille that is topped by the Flying Lady mascot. The interior is done in tan leather, with carpeting and piping that matches the body color. The dashboard features polished wood, and along the door tops and the center console, with Smiths instruments and an Alpine stereo nestled within.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2021