Of all the Rolls-Royce models in the company's illustrious history, perhaps none is as distinctive as Camargue whose design still provokes vigorous debate among enthusiasts. While its aesthetics remain a matter of personal taste, the Camargue's importance and place in the Rolls-Royce story are indisputable designed, as it was, in collaboration with the legendary Italian house, Pininfarina. Though never built in large numbers, it was a great export success and today, its rarity & design perfectly captures the essence of the 1970s. As with its previous generations, it was still powered by the same 6.75 litre, V8 engine although the Camargue was slightly more powerful with a chassis equipped with independent suspension and automatic height control ensuring the marques fabled magic carpet ride.

The interior concept is equally modern, like an aircraft cockpit and equipped with numerous high-precision instruments. Famously, for those in the know only perhaps, is that fact that the grill, for the first time since the launch of the great name, is now tilted forward just slightly by 4° but, once you know, you know.

This rare example is presented, in 'Masons Crown' with matching ultra-soft 'Nuella' olive green leather and it is this rarity that makes it are somewhat sought-after amongst collectors today. The history of this example is somewhat thin on the ground although the car itself is in extremely good condition throughout. The story really needs to begin here although the factory paperwork does accompany the car detailing the first owner as Sheikh Haif Bin Mohammed Al Hahayan of Dubai before more moving on to a private collection in the same region. The previous owner was certainly something of a connoisseur when it came to music reproduction however as the stereo systems in the car are complex with Pioneer Carrozzeria GEX-T5 synthesiser but also a cassette & CD player, speaker balance and a very complicated radio as well sound-deadening lambswool over rugs and foglights all contributing to the opulence. It has been checked over recently by a mechanic, replacing the distributer cap, ignition coil and sparkplugs although a service would certainly be recommended prior to any onward journey. Consigned by Edward Bridger-Stille

Lot details
Year: 1979
Make: Rolls-Royce
Model: Camargue by Pininfarina
Registration: HBJ 223T
Chassis No: JRX32181
Engine No: 4139219/ C
Odometer: 39,859

* A handsome example of this highly collectable model
* Presented in classic period colour-scheme
* 'The quality will remain long after the price is forgotten' the entirely appropriate company monica back in 1970s