1983 Rolls-Royce Camargue

1983 Rolls-Royce Camargue

This car has now been sold.

One of 530 examples

Registration number A899 RYT

Chassis number SCAYJ0005DCH07285

Engine number 07285

Milage 8,000

6,750 cc aluminium-block overhead valve V8 engine, three-speed automatic transmission, front and rear independent coil spring suspension with self-leveling and rear height control, power assisted ventilated front disc brakes and hydraulic rear drum brakes. Wheelbase: 120.5" (3,060mm)

The Camargue was based on the chassis of the Silver Shadow, which upon its introduction in 1965 was widely considered to be the first truly modern car Rolls-Royce had ever offered. A decade later, with the Silver Shadow still in production, the factory approached Pininfarina to commission something new and exciting – a car with a more Continental flair. Dubbed the Camargue, this new car was a sporty coupé with fastback lines and crisp edges that retained a spacious interior and a long-legged comfortable ride while adding a more athletic suspension with improved handling. Largely hand-built in Crewe by Mulliner-Park Ward, the Camargue was the most expensive Rolls-Royce of all, pricier even than a new Corniche convertible.

Rear

The example offered here was sold new by London-based Rolls-Royce dealer H. R. Owen, who arranged the 18 carat gold plating of various exterior trim pieces at the request of the first owner, the Al-Maktoum Family. In 1995, the car was acquired by Mr. Bernie Ecclestone, in whose collection it remained until 2007.

Still wearing its lovely original bronze paint there is only minor evidence of aging. The chrome and stainless trim is both original and excellent. Inside, one notices the superb craftsmanship in regard to the finish of the wood and the fit of the tan leather seats, piped in copper bronze, and the fully carpeted floors – complete with elegant, fitted Mouton carpets. The soft trim has had a minimum of use and is still fresh and supple.

Engine

Meticulous care has been given to the Camargue from new; it was serviced on a regular basis by Rolls-Royce up to 1995, and thereafter was professionally maintained by Sergeants of Goudhurst in Kent on behalf of the Ecclestone Collection. Also included are all of its original handbooks and service guides with dealer stamps that chronicle the work conducted as well as its status as a very low mileage car (8,000 miles). The car reportedly drives very nicely and runs as expected with only a slight tick on start-up, which disappears quickly and is apparently quite common for these engines. These magnificent coupés are both wonderful to drive and superbly comfortable for long-distance travel. They offer remarkable performance and undeniably attractive lines, and are only now beginning to appreciate as they attract the attention of collectors and marque enthusiasts.

Further Photographs: Gallery