Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow MkI

Rolls Royce Silver Shadow 1968

Key facts

  • Year

    1968

  • Country

    Great Britain

  • Capacity

    6,230cc

  • Cylinders

    V8

  • Valves

    2 per cylinder

  • Output

    200hp @ 4,000rpm

  • Performance

    0-60mph 10.9 seconds

  • Price new

    £7,790

  • Owner

    National Motor Museum Trust

  • Manufacturer

    Rolls-Royce Ltd

By Rolls-Royce standards, the Silver Shadow was quite revolutionary. When launched in 1965 it marked a clear change in the company’s approach to luxury car building. Gone were the traditional separate chassis and coach-built body, to be replaced by unitary construction, four-wheel disc brakes and self-levelling suspension system. It had taken nearly ten years to develop but the Silver Shadow would prove to be a winner for Rolls-Royce. Over 40,000 examples of the car and its derivatives were built up to 1995.

The Silver Shadow was subject to continual development throughout its life. The engine was enlarged to 6,750cc from 1970. Two-door, convertible and long-wheelbase versions soon followed the saloon. The Silver Shadow was also available badged as the Bentley T type. A further improved Silver Shadow II with rack and pinion steering came out in 1977.

Luxury with elegance and Rolls-Royce quality

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Panoramic view of the first floor of the National Motor Museum

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