1979 Rolls-Royce Corniche II DHC – Exterior and Interior – Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden 2021
By 1979, the Rolls-Royce Corniche II Drophead Coupé stood as one of the most exclusive open luxury cars in production. Hand-built, powered by a 6.75-liter V8, and finished to individual customer specification, it combined traditional craftsmanship with updated late-1970s engineering. Within the Rolls-Royce range, it represented open-top prestige at the highest level.
Technical Details
The 1979 Rolls-Royce Corniche II DHC (Drophead Coupé) was based on the revised Silver Shadow II platform. It was powered by Rolls-Royce’s long-serving 6.75-liter (6,750 cc) aluminum V8 engine, an evolution of the unit first introduced in 1959. As was customary for Rolls-Royce, official power figures were not published; performance was described as “adequate.” Independent estimates for late-1970s carbureted versions place output in the region of approximately 200–220 bhp (SAE net), depending on market specification.
Most 1979 Corniche II models were equipped with twin SU carburetors, though fuel injection would become more common in later years for emissions compliance. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels via a three-speed General Motors Turbo-Hydramatic 400 automatic transmission. The emphasis was on seamless torque delivery and quiet operation rather than acceleration statistics.
The Corniche II featured fully independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes, supported by Rolls-Royce’s high-pressure hydraulic system derived from Citroën technology. This system controlled power braking and self-leveling rear suspension, ensuring a consistent ride height even under load. Compared with earlier Corniche models, the “II” generation introduced rack-and-pinion steering, improving steering precision and reducing effort. The car retained a steel monocoque body structure, while the convertible body was reinforced to maintain rigidity.
General Information
- Manufacturer: Rolls-Royce
- Model name: Corniche II Drophead Coupé (DHC)
- Year of manufacturing: 1979 (Corniche II produced 1977–1986)
Design
The Rolls-Royce Corniche II DHC was styled as a formal four-seat convertible with restrained, architectural proportions. The body design originated in the late 1960s and was executed by Mulliner Park Ward, Rolls-Royce’s in-house coachbuilding division. The overall form remained consistent through the 1970s: long bonnet, upright grille with the Spirit of Ecstasy, broad flanks, and a gently tapering rear deck.
The 1979 model carried the visual updates associated with the Silver Shadow II generation, including integrated rubber bumper treatments that complied with international safety regulations while preserving the car’s dignified appearance. The fabric soft top was fully lined and power-operated, folding beneath a rigid tonneau cover for a clean profile when lowered.
Inside, craftsmanship defined the experience. The cabin featured hand-polished wood veneers across the dashboard and door cappings, thick leather upholstery, and deep carpeting. The four-seat layout provided genuine rear accommodation, distinguishing the Corniche from smaller luxury convertibles. Controls were substantial and clearly arranged, emphasizing durability and tactile quality over decorative complexity.
Historical Significance
The Corniche name was introduced in 1971 for Rolls-Royce’s two-door coupé and convertible models derived from the Silver Shadow. In 1977, the revised Corniche II incorporated the mechanical updates of the Silver Shadow II, including improved steering and suspension refinements. By 1979, the Corniche II DHC had become one of the most prestigious open luxury cars available worldwide.
Production numbers were low by design. The Corniche was assembled largely by hand at Mulliner Park Ward, with each car built to order and finished according to customer preferences. The late 1970s were a challenging period for large luxury vehicles due to fuel economy concerns and global economic shifts, yet the Corniche II maintained a stable clientele among high-net-worth individuals.
The model also represents one of the last Rolls-Royce convertibles built before the introduction of the Silver Spirit–based generation in the mid-1980s. As such, the 1979 Corniche II stands within the final evolution of the Silver Shadow-derived two-door era.
Quirks and Pop Culture
The Rolls-Royce Corniche became closely associated with celebrity culture in the 1970s and 1980s. Its open-top configuration, imposing proportions, and understated elegance made it a favored vehicle among entertainers, business figures, and royalty. The car frequently appeared in media portrayals as a symbol of established wealth rather than ostentatious excess.
The hydraulic system, shared conceptually with other contemporary Rolls-Royce models, remains one of the car’s most technically distinctive features. While delivering exceptional ride quality and braking performance, it also contributed to the vehicle’s reputation for requiring specialized maintenance.
Over time, the Corniche II DHC has become one of the most recognizable late-20th-century Rolls-Royce models, valued for its combination of traditional craftsmanship and open-air luxury.
Display and preservation
The vehicle was exhibited at the Oldtimer-Meeting Baden-Baden in 2021. This event, held annually in the spa town’s Kurpark and along the Kaiserallee, is one of Germany’s most picturesque classic car gatherings. In 2021, the 44th edition featured 300 vintage vehicles from 80 different brands, including rare models. The event embraced a 1970s theme, showcasing over 40 vehicles from that era. An innovative highlight was the “automobile fashion show,” where models presented current fashion trends while riding in open-top classic cars through the park. The event concluded with the traditional Concours d’élégance, awarding 120 prizes across 15 categories.
Conclusion
The 1979 Rolls-Royce Corniche II Drophead Coupé represents a mature expression of Rolls-Royce convertible design in the late 1970s. Powered by a 6.75-liter V8 and equipped with advanced hydraulic suspension and braking systems, it prioritized smoothness, refinement, and craftsmanship. Its formal styling, reinforced convertible body, and hand-finished interior positioned it at the top of the open luxury segment. As part of the Silver Shadow-derived lineage, the Corniche II DHC remains a defining symbol of Rolls-Royce prestige in the pre-Silver Spirit era.
