Arguably the ultimate 1970s and 1980s status symbol of wealth and success, the Rolls-Royce Corniche was a car sought by many but one only the fortunate few could afford. Designed to be enjoyed by its fortunate owner in warm-weather climates, each Corniche took four months to be hand built, with two weeks spent on the convertible top alone. With a list price of over $200,000, each car was crafted of only the finest materials Britain had to offer, including Wilton wool carpeting, Connolly leather, and carefully selected burl walnut veneer. First introduced in 1971, the Corniche remained in production for nearly 25 years and over this time, these cars were periodically updated to keep them both modern and relevant.

This Corniche was ordered new by Rallye Motors, Inc. in August of 1980. It left the factory in February 1981 finished in Black Masons with Double Tan pinstripes and a Tan convertible top over a Tan interior with Deep Fawn carpet and Beige headlining. It was shipped to the United States onboard the American Legend reaching the Lyndhurst, New Jersey port of entry in September 1981. The car was sold by Park Ward Motors, Inc. of New York on 10 October 1981 to successful international businessman Cheng Ching Wang of Pound Ridge, New York. Cheng Ching Wang—also known as “C.C.”—was the father of noted American fashion designer Vera Wang, who backed his daughter’s company and served as chairman of Vera Wang Co. from its inception in 1990 until 1998.

While it’s unclear how long Mr. Wang owned the Corniche, according to the car’s Carfax report it has remained in the New York City area its entire life. Today the car remains very much in the way it left the factory in 1981. It is offered with just 6,365 miles from new at time of cataloguing. Accompanying the car is its original manuals with pouch, Mr. Wang’s Rolls-Royce owner identification card, and copies of Rolls-Royce build information and select invoices for early service work.

Rolls-Royce has always set the standard for the automotive world providing customers with exclusive options and luxurious finishes. The Corniche carried on that tradition and embodied Eighties opulence. With interesting original ownership and low mileage, this example is sure to intrigue Rolls-Royce collectors and marque enthusiasts, making it a wonderful addition to well-curated collections.