1988 Rolls-Royce Corniche 6.8L V8 - ONLINE AUCTION

History and Background

The Rolls-Royce Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 belongs to a model series that originated in the late 1960s, when Rolls-Royce and Bentley developed their luxury convertibles based on existing sedan architecture. The Corniche was positioned as a two- or four-seater convertible in the top segment, characterized by a hand-built body, traditional finishes, and a high degree of craftsmanship. In 1988, the Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 was introduced during a period when Rolls-Royce continued to refine the Corniche’s classic design without straying from its existing lines and recognizable silhouette.

The Corniche II represented a further evolution of the original Corniche and was introduced with technical and aesthetic refinements that reflected the state of the art in the 1980s. Within the Rolls-Royce lineup, this model remained a distinct status symbol, aimed at an international clientele that valued an open-top body style combined with the brand’s image of continuity and traditional luxury. The Corniche remained relatively exclusive; production numbers were considerably lower than those of regular passenger cars, partly because the finishing was largely done by hand and the assembly time per car was long.

The Rolls-Royce Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 is thus not only a representative of the brand in its classic form, but also of a type of luxury convertible that, in the 1980s, still relied heavily on conventional technology and a separate body structure. This makes the Corniche II distinctive within the history of Rolls-Royce, where evolution typically occurred in small steps rather than through radical model changes.

Features and Distinguishing Characteristics

The Rolls-Royce Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 stands out for its combination of a classic two- or four-seater convertible body and a large-displacement V8 engine. The 6.8-liter eight-cylinder engine was characteristic of Rolls-Royce during this period and was paired with a driving experience explicitly focused on comfort and smoothness. The design and positioning of the Corniche II align with the brand’s tradition, in which quietness, low engine speeds, and refined tuning took precedence over technical innovation for innovation’s sake.

The Corniche II is also known for the way it continued the classic Rolls-Royce design language. The long hood, low waistline, and stately proportions are characteristic of this generation. In 1988, the Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 was a car that occupied a distinct place within the Rolls-Royce lineup as an open-top model with a distinctly traditional appearance, setting it apart from more common luxury convertibles of the same period. This lot is currently in a non-running condition. Both the interior and exterior are generally in good condition.

Summary

The 1988 Rolls-Royce Corniche II Convertible 6.8L V8 is a classically styled open-top Rolls-Royce that holds a distinct place in the evolution of the Corniche series. The model embodies the brand’s traditional build and design philosophy and is currently in a non-running condition. Both the interior and exterior are generally in good condition. To get a good idea of the lot, we recommend that you attend the viewing day.

Please note: This car is being auctioned online by Classic Car Auctions.

This car is being offered in the “Classics, Sports Cars, Youngtimers Breedenbroek” online auction. The car is available for viewing during the viewing days. The listed amount represents the lower end of the estimated value. Bidding starts at €5,000.

Auction

Opening: Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Closing: Wednesday, October 14, 2026, starting at 8:00 PM

Location

Terborgseweg 61C
7084 AB Breedenbroek
The Netherlands

Viewing Days

Saturday, October 10 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Tuesday, October 13 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

For more information about the auction, viewing days, and the complete lot list, please visit classiccar-auctions.com.

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Transportation

Once a bid is successful, we can arrange transportation.

Within the Netherlands: €250, excluding VAT.

Outside the Netherlands: Transportation available upon request.

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