Rolls Royce’s Best Selling Car, Then and Now
Rolls Royce’s best selling car, then and now.
Introduced in 1965, this year marks the 60th anniversary of the Silver Shadow and Bentley T Type. So we thought we’d take the opportunity to look back at the introduction and evolution of the Silver Shadow—alongside the recurring themes we still see in the Shadows and T Types that come into our workshop today.
There’s no disputing that the Silver Shadow was the most modern and innovative Rolls Royce model of its time. Conceptualisation and design ideas began in the mid-1950s under the direction of Harry Grylls, the then-chief engineer at Rolls Royce. But it wasn’t until the late 1950s that the concept truly took shape, with the Shadow receiving its project name, ‘Tibet’, and a Bentley equivalent also given the code name ‘Burma’.
The development of the Silver Shadow came at a turning point in the motor industry, and marked a monumental change in Rolls Royce motor car production. Up until this point, Rolls Royce had been producing the Silver Cloud/Bentley S Type – a far more traditionally engineered vehicle with the body and chassis produced separately. With drum brakes and a mechanical servo along with the separate chassis construction, the Cloud was starting to look rather dated coming into the 1960’s. In the late fifties, it became clear that if Rolls Royce was to survive and compete, they had to embrace change
There were a few factors that prompted this change. It was generally recognised at the time that cars needed to be smaller, more efficient, and more economical. Times were changing, and Rolls Royce needed to keep up with modern manufacturing methods. The result, was the Silver Shadow, Rolls Royce’s first monocoque assembly (unitary body) car.
For the first time ever, Rolls Royce were able to produce the chassis and the body together as one single unit. This meant the car was more compact overall, without sacrificing interior space. It also allowed production in greater numbers and at lower cost. Though still a luxury car, the Shadow became the most accessible entry point into the Rolls Royce brand.
The intention had been for Bentley to have its own sister model that would be very different to the Shadow, but it seems that the cost was enormous for such a limited manufacturer and so that intention didn’t follow through as planned. The result is a Bentley equivalent which is very similar aside from badge engineering, something which reportedly did cause some upset amongst Bentley drivers at the time.
Who’d have known back in 1965 that the Silver Shadow would go on to be produced for 15 years? In total over 40,000 silver shadows and their derivatives were made, making it Rolls Royce’s best-selling car by far.
If anything, overproduction was arguably one of the Silver Shadows weakest links. So many were produced due to a popularity that nobody could really have predicted. The knock-on effect of that is that in recent years they’ve become surprisingly affordable as luxury classic cars and they can therefore be found in varying conditions/states of disrepair.
At Harvey Wash Ltd, we’ve seen a great many Shadows and T Types over the years. In fact, 60 years on, it’s rare we don’t have one (or more!) in the workshop. So if you’re thinking about buying one, here are the main things to look out for:
Brake and Hydraulics: The Rolls Royce Silver Shadow has some of the best stopping power and almost definitely the most comfortable ride of its era, but the hydraulic system is complex and does not tolerate neglect. Regular maintenance of the system including using the correct RR363 brake fluid is essential to maintain the car’s reliability. The system operates at very high pressures of 2000psi+ and failure of the system can lead to poor (or no!) brakes.
If you’re looking to buy a Silver Shadow be sure to check that regular maintenance has been carried out on the hydraulic system. We would recommend a brake fluid change every two years and a service of the system every 48,000 & 96,000 miles or four & eight years respectively.
Body work: As with any car, Silver Shadows can (and do) rust! Check for poor quality repairs and corrosion to the bodywork. Whilst better than many of their contemporaries for corrosion, they are prone to rust in the arch sill and front and rear valances.
It’s also worth noting that if water has ingressed into the passenger compartment due to leaking seals or blocked scuttle drains, the floor pans can be vulnerable to corrosion. Look carefully for signs of poor repairs or hidden rust.
Engines; In general are reliable. Check for worn/smokey engines which would likely require a rebuild. Listen out for any undue noise from the engine such as hydraulic tappet noise which may indicate that overhaul is required.
Automatic gear boxes are also generally reliable. Both four speed and the later three speed gear boxes are from General motors (USA), with the four speed gearboxes carrying over from the Silver Cloud. The gear change should be smooth with no slipping, otherwise rebuild maybe required.
Wiring and electrics. The Silver Shadow has a complex wiring system with many components electronically controlled, it’s important to take the time to make sure that all of these components work as they should. If they don’t, consult a specialist as these systems really are complicated.
All in all, the Silver Shadow was—and remains—a very popular car. It’s just as loved today by classic car enthusiasts as it was when it was first released in 1965. That longevity speaks for itself.
As previously mentioned, there are many Shadows out on the road in many varying conditions. If you’re looking to buy one and the offer seems a bit too good to be true, then we’re sad to say that it probably is! It’s always best to consult a specialist when looking to make a purchase so that we can offer honest advice and talk through some of the details of the car. When well looked after these are truly beautiful cars with a sense of timeless luxury, and it’s lovely to see so many of them still going strong 60 years later.
If you’re looking to purchase a classic vehicle, we here at Harvey Wash Ltd are always here to help. We can carry out inspections, offer advice and answer any questions you have. Just give us a call on 01376 571174 or drop us an email on info@harveywashltd.co.uk.
And, if you’re free on August 16th, head over to Brooklands Museum in Surrey where Harvey will be giving a seminar on the Silver Shadow (as part of the Rolls Royce and Bentley Specialist’s Association), for the RREC’s Silver Shadow 60th Anniversary Event. Hope to see you there!