The Rolls-Royce Corniche IV was introduced in 1992 to cement the grand impression that the Corniche lineup already had on the luxury car segment. Under the hood, the Corniche IV, with all its elegance, has a 6.75L V8 engine that delivers a substantial 220 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It offers a smooth and powerful driving experience that Rolls-Royce is known for. This powertrain, combined with a plush interior, makes driving a Corniche IV a unique experience. But such an experience doesn't come cheap, as the price of a used Rolls-Royce Corniche IV can vary greatly depending on the car's condition, mileage, and model year. On average, you can expect to part with upwards of $100,000 up to $250,000 for a well-kept unit. Let's delve deeper into this Rolls-Royce Corniche IV to learn more about the timeless design and luxurious features of this luxurious car from the 90s.
The Rolls-Royce Corniche IV debuted at the 1992 Detroit Auto Show, and it was a moderate departure from its predecessors. It built upon the legacy of the Corniche III, inheriting its elegant lines, spacious cabin, and matching engine. However, subtle changes were made in the Cornice IV. The iconic grille was slightly reshaped, the bumpers were color-coded for a sleeker look, and the new alloy wheels added a touch of contemporary flair. Under the hood, the Corniche IV received a technological upgrade. The aging three-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a smoother, more responsive four-speed unit, offering improved performance and fuel efficiency. The suspension system was also refined. Rolls Royce added adaptive dampers that automatically adjust to road conditions. This, in turn, ensured a consistently luxurious ride. True to Rolls-Royce tradition, the Corniche IV was offered in various bespoke configurations. But even with its undeniable appeal, the Corniche IV's production run was brief. With Rolls-Royce facing financial difficulties and the automotive landscape shifting towards more modern designs, only 219 Corniche IVs were ever built, making it a rare and coveted collector's item. The final Corniche IV rolled off the production line in 1995. The last Corniche IV ever produced was presented to Queen Elizabeth II for her Golden Jubilee.
The Rolls-Royce Corniche IV houses a powerful and refined engine that perfectly complements its opulent character. Rolls-Royce fitted the familiar 6.75-liter V8 engine that had graced Rolls-Royce models for years under the Corniche IV's hood. This pushrod V8 featured an aluminum-silicon alloy block, aluminum cylinder heads with cast iron wet cylinder liners, and a single Bosch KE/K-Jetronic fuel injection system. The engine configuration remained unchanged from the Corniche III, as the focus was on refinement and reliability. The engine delivered a smooth and effortless driving experience, rather than raw speed. It churned out 220 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. These figures are modest compared to modern Rolls-Royces. This engine configuration ensured effortless acceleration and enough power to take it from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph. Fuel-wise, the Corniche IV's fuel economy is average for a car of its size and power. The four-speed automatic transmission and engine optimizations resulted in a combined 15 mpg, respectable for a luxury car in the early 1990s. The Bosch fuel injection system offered improved efficiency and cleaner emissions compared to earlier carburetor setups. The Corniche IV's engine delivers a good driving experience with power delivery that is smooth and linear. The engine remains remarkably quiet even at high speeds. The Corniche IV's engine faced competition from other luxury cars of the era, including the Bentley Turbo R, which has a 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 engine that produces 300 horsepower and offers more power and quicker acceleration than the Corniche IV. However, the smoother character of the Corniche IV and its focus on refinement set it apart. Also, the Mercedes-Benz 600SEL featured a 6.0-liter V12 engine with 389 horsepower, offering significantly more power and performance. But the Corniche IV's better ride quality and bespoke luxury features ensured that these competitors didn't dwarf it.
Like most Rolls Royce cars, the Corniche IV's interior is luxurious and features high-quality bespoke materials. Upon opening the door, the large, wood-rimmed steering wheel is one of the first things that stares you in the face. It's adorned with the iconic Rolls-Royce emblem, and it feels substantial and reassuring in your hands. It's a power steering, so you'll get effortless maneuvering while the thin spokes provide unobstructed views of the instrument cluster. The large, clear dials display essential information like speed, fuel level, and engine temperature, all bathed in a warm, soft glow. Rolls-Royce craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the delicate needle movements to the subtle chrome accents. The refinement spreads further through the dashboard, which is covered in rich, burr walnut wood panels. There are gleaming chrome accents and elegant leather trims here and there to finish off the design. Expectedly, Rolls Royce spared nothing to ensure the materials used were of the highest quality. There's no doubt they were chosen for their beauty, durability, and tactile pleasure. Every switch, vent, and button feels substantial and top-quality. The center console, nestled between the front seats, is a hub of functionality and convenience. It houses the climate control system with individual controls for each passenger, allowing for personalized comfort. A large ashtray, cleverly concealed behind a wood panel, caters to smokers, while the small storage compartment offers a space to keep your essentials. The Corniche IV's cabin is a haven of tranquility. The engine's purr is mildly audible at highway speeds, thanks to extensive sound insulation. The seats are plush and covered in top-of-the-line leather, with various color options to choose from. They are generously sized and offer ample adjustability so that you'll find ample seating position. There's electric lumbar support and seat heating. The Convertible version of the Corniche IV has a comfortable, albeit smaller, back seat. But it makes up for that with various features to enhance comfort and convenience, including cruise control and electric windows.
Several years after it debuted, the Corniche IV still looks spectacular. The imposing front grille, adorned with the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy, is hard to miss. Its vertical bars and chrome surround exude an air of regal authority. Flanking the grille, are the rectangular headlights set behind clear glass covers. They offer excellent nighttime visibility. Below the headlights are the bumper and fog lights. The Corniche IV's rear shares the same uniqueness as the front. The boot lid, adorned with the Rolls-Royce emblem, slopes gently downwards, meeting the taillights. These vertical taillights boarded with chrome surrounds and amber turn signals look simple. The Corniche IV's side profile gives a better view of the car's low-slung silhouette with the gently rising waistline. There are chrome trims around the windows and door handles, and they add a touch of sparkle to the sides. The doors are long and wide and hinged at the front for graceful entry and exit. The Corniche IV sits on wide tires that are fitted with polished alloy wheels, and they do a great job of keeping the car gliding smoothly. The trunk, with its wide opening and well-lined interior, offers ample space for your luggage.
A Bosch KE/K-Jetronic fuel injection system governs the Corniche IV's 6.75-liter V8 engine. This electronically controlled system ensures precise fuel delivery, leading to smoother performance, improved fuel efficiency, and cleaner emissions than earlier carburetor setups. In addition to this, the Corniche IV also shed its three-speed automatic transmission for a four-speed. This improved driving experience, especially in stop-and-go situations, while still maintaining the effortless power delivery that defined the Rolls-Royce character. The Corniche IV also features adaptive dampers, a climate control system with individual controls for each passenger, a high-quality cassette player with speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, Anti-lock brakes, and airbags.
The Corniche IV never had a publicly advertised price tag. Rolls-Royce, true to its bespoke nature, catered to individual preferences and built each car to order. Today, the Corniche IV's price is determined by the interplay of market forces, including rarity and condition. This leaves the price of the Corniche IV at between $100,000 and $250,000. The highest recorded sale price for a unit was a staggering $412,500 for a 1995 Corniche IV in excellent condition.
The Rolls-Royce Corniche IV remains a timeless icon, a rolling monument to British luxury and automotive excellence. From its elegant lines to its sumptuous interior and refined technology, every detail whispers of the car's exquisite craftsmanship. If you're looking to step into the Rolls Royce brand, look no further than Exotic Car Trader. Their curated selection of exotic cars, including the coveted Corniche IV, offers a gateway to owning a piece of automotive history. Selling your car is just as easy using their streamlined online platform and a dedicated team of experts that takes the hassle out of the process, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction. If you love classic luxury automobiles, the Corniche IV will undoubtedly be a nice addition to your already teeming garage. It offers refined comfort, smooth rides, and subtle technological advancements, making it a coveted classic. And it's rare, too!
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