Rolls-Royce Corniche IV (1992–1995)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** is a beautifully crafted luxury convertible, but like any classic car, it has some common issues that owners should be aware of. Here are a few frequently reported faults:

**Mechanical & Suspension Issues**
- **Hydraulic System Leaks** – The Corniche IV uses a **complex hydraulic system** for its suspension and brakes, which can develop leaks over time.
- **Suspension Wear** – Components like **bushings, shocks, and springs** may require replacement due to age-related deterioration.

**Electrical Problems**
- **Faulty Wiring & Switches** – Electrical issues, including **malfunctioning gauges and failed switches**, are common in older Rolls-Royce models.
- **Power Window Failures** – The **electric window mechanisms** can become slow or stop working entirely.

**Brake & Transmission Concerns**
- **Brake System Wear** – Issues such as **worn brake pads, leaking brake lines, and malfunctioning calipers** may require attention.
- **Transmission Problems** – Some owners report **slipping gears, rough shifting, and fluid leaks** over time.

**Engine & Cooling System**
- **Oil Leaks** – The **6.75L V8 engine** can develop **oil leaks** around gaskets and seals.
- **Cooling System Weaknesses** – **Radiator leaks and water pump failures** are common, requiring periodic checks.

**Interior & Trim Issues**
- **Leather & Wood Trim Wear** – Over time, **leather upholstery and wooden dashboard components** may require restoration.
- **Convertible Roof Problems** – The **power-operated soft top** can suffer from **seal deterioration and motor failures**.

Despite these faults, the **Corniche IV remains a highly desirable collector’s car**, and many of these issues can be managed with proper maintenance.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** was part of the broader **Corniche lineage**, which spanned multiple generations. Here’s a breakdown:

**Generations**
1. **Corniche I (1971–1987)** – Based on the **Silver Shadow**, available as a **coupe and convertible**.
2. **Corniche II (1986–1989)** – Introduced **fuel injection** and improved suspension.
3. **Corniche III (1989–1992)** – Featured **ABS, updated bumpers, and revised interior**.
4. **Corniche IV (1992–1995)** – Added **airbags, a power-operated convertible top, and a glass rear window**.
5. **Corniche V (2000–2003)** – The final Corniche, based on the **Silver Seraph**, featuring a **BMW-sourced V12 engine** - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/rolls-royce/corniche/).

**Trim Levels**
The **Corniche IV** was available in a **single luxury trim**, offering **handcrafted leather, wood veneers, and advanced comfort features**. Unlike modern cars with multiple trim levels, Rolls-Royce focused on **bespoke customization**, allowing buyers to tailor their cars to their preferences.
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Engine/s
The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** was powered by a **6.8L V8 engine**, delivering **215 bhp (160 kW) @ 4200 rpm** and **440 Nm (325 lb-ft) @ 1450 rpm**.

**Engine Specifications**
- **Displacement:** **6.8 litres (6750 cc)**
- **Configuration:** **V8, naturally aspirated**
- **Valve Gear:** **Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder**
- **Fuel System:** **Bosch K-Motronic fuel injection**
- **Compression Ratio:** **8:1**
- **Transmission:** **4-speed automatic**
- **Top Speed:** **130 mph (210 km/h)**

This **smooth and powerful V8** was a hallmark of Rolls-Royce luxury, offering effortless acceleration and refined cruising ability.
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Performance
The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** was designed for **luxury cruising** rather than outright performance, but it still offered respectable figures for its class. Here are its key specifications:

**Performance Figures**
- **Engine:** 6.8L V8 (6750 cc)
- **Power:** **215 bhp (160 kW) @ 4200 rpm**
- **Torque:** **440 Nm (325 lb-ft) @ 1450 rpm**
- **0–60 mph:** **10 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **130 mph (210 km/h)**
- **Transmission:** **4-speed automatic**

The **Corniche IV** prioritized **smooth acceleration, effortless cruising, and refined driving dynamics**, making it a true **grand touring convertible**.
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Rivals
The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** had several luxury convertible rivals in the UK during the **1990s**, each offering distinct performance characteristics. Here’s how they compared:

### **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV (1992–1995)**
- **Engine:** 6.8L V8
- **Power:** **244 bhp @ 4200 rpm**
- **Torque:** **550 Nm @ 2000 rpm**
- **0–60 mph:** **10.0 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **130 mph (210 km/h)**

**Main Rivals & Their Performance**
**Bentley Continental R (1991–2003)**
- **Engine:** 6.75L turbocharged V8
- **Power:** **325 bhp**
- **Torque:** **610 Nm**
- **0–60 mph:** **6.6 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**

**Mercedes-Benz SL600 (R129) (1993–2001)**
- **Engine:** 6.0L V12
- **Power:** **389 bhp**
- **Torque:** **570 Nm**
- **0–60 mph:** **5.9 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**

**Aston Martin DB7 Volante (1996–2003)**
- **Engine:** 5.9L V12
- **Power:** **420 bhp**
- **Torque:** **540 Nm**
- **0–60 mph:** **5.0 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **186 mph (299 km/h)**

The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** prioritized **luxury and refinement** over outright speed, making it a true **grand touring convertible** rather than a high-performance sports car.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** was designed by **Park Ward**, a renowned coachbuilder responsible for many of Rolls-Royce’s most elegant creations.

**Dimensions**
- **Wheelbase:** **3,061 mm (120.5 in)**
- **Length:** **5,196 mm (204.6 in)**
- **Width:** **1,836 mm (72.3 in)**
- **Height:** **1,518 mm (59.8 in)**
- **Ground Clearance:** **145 mm (5.7 in)**
- **Kerb Weight:** **2,430 kg (5,357 lb)**

The **Corniche IV** was a **large, luxurious convertible**, offering **spacious seating and a smooth ride**, making it one of the most refined grand tourers of its era.
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Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV spares** in the **UK and Ireland**, here are some great sources:

**Online Retailers**
- **[Flying Spares](https://www.flyingspares.com/shop/rolls-royce-parts/corniche.html)** – One of the largest independent suppliers of **new, reconditioned, and recycled Rolls-Royce & Bentley parts**.
- **[AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/rolls-royce-corniche-carparts)** – Offers a **wide range of Corniche IV components**, including **brakes, suspension, engine parts, and electrics**.

**Specialist Dealers & Forums**
- **Rolls-Royce Enthusiast Clubs** – Many **Rolls-Royce owners’ clubs** have dedicated forums where members buy, sell, and trade parts.
- **Classic Car Specialists** – Some **independent Rolls-Royce specialists** stock rare Corniche IV components.

**Local Scrap Yards & Breakers**
- **Rolls-Royce-Specific Breakers** – Some **Rolls-Royce dismantlers** may have Corniche IV parts available.
- **General Classic Car Breakers** – Occasionally, Corniche IV parts turn up in **high-end vehicle salvage yards**.
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Specialist NI
There are **specialist Rolls-Royce garage services** available in **Northern Ireland**, catering to maintenance, restoration, and repairs. Here are a few options:

### **Independent Rolls-Royce Specialists**
- **[Fearons Rolls-Royce and Bentley Specialists](https://www.alanfearon.co.uk/)** – Based in Newcastle upon Tyne, offering **servicing, repairs, diagnostics, and full restorations** for Rolls-Royce models.
- **[Ranmore Service & Engineering](https://www.rsande.co.uk/)** – Specializes in **post-war Rolls-Royce and Bentley models**, providing **maintenance, restoration, and sales**.
- **[A & S Engineering](https://classiccarwebsite.com/item/a-s-engineering/)** – Focuses on **classic and vintage Rolls-Royce models**, offering **bespoke servicing and restoration**.

### **Rolls-Royce Wedding Car Hire**
- **[Rolls-Royce Wedding Cars Northern Ireland](https://www.hiremyrolls.com/)** – Located in **Moira, Antrim**, providing **Rolls-Royce hire services** for special occasions.

These specialists offer **expert care for Rolls-Royce vehicles**, ensuring they remain in top condition.
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Valuation
In **2025**, the value of a **Rolls-Royce Corniche IV** in the UK varies depending on **condition, mileage, and rarity**. Here’s a general price range based on recent market data:

- **Lowest recorded sale:** Around **£65,000** for models in fair condition.
- **Average market value:** Approximately **£120,000–£175,000** for well-maintained examples.
- **Highest recorded sale:** Up to **£200,000+** for rare or pristine-condition models.

If you're looking to buy or sell one, checking **AutoTrader UK** or **Hagerty UK** might provide more precise valuations.
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Clubs
Rolls-Royce enthusiasts in **Northern Ireland** can connect with fellow owners through various clubs. Here are some options:

**Rolls-Royce Owners' Clubs**
- **[Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts' Club (RREC)](https://rrec.org.uk/)** – A prestigious international club for Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiasts, offering events, technical support, and a vast archive of historical records.
- **[Car and Classic Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts' Club](https://www.carandclassic.com/clubs/rolls-royce-enthusiasts-club-the)** – A well-established club catering to Rolls-Royce owners, providing resources, technical seminars, and social gatherings.

These clubs offer **exclusive events, technical advice, and networking opportunities** for Rolls-Royce owners and enthusiasts.
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