Many critics had expressed their disappointment with the design of this particular Rolls-Royce, going as far as calling it the least attractive one in the brand’s history. This was quite surprising, considering it was designed by Paolo Martin of Pininfarina. The car featured long and flat body lines along the sides, reminiscent of a 1990s Volvo wagon, an excessively elongated hood, and a rear roofline that was tilted at an angle that could only be described as uncomfortable and eye-catching.
Source: Auctions – Webbs
Describing the car in a critical 1975 review, the editors of MotorSport Magazine suggested that the designer, Farina, had made an unsuccessful attempt to combine the stylish aesthetics of his Fiat 130 Coupe design with the central radiator of a Rolls-Royce. They further remarked on the front view, drawing a humorous analogy between the extended bodywork beyond the wheels and a comical image from the South African Grand Prix program, featuring an overweight man on a small motorcycle. This assessment highlighted the car’s unique and rare nature in the automotive world.
Source: Auctions – Webbs
The story of the creation of the Rolls-Royce Camargue began in the early 1970s. Under the ownership of the Vickers conglomerate, Rolls-Royce Motors aimed to develop a new flagship model that would showcase its engineering prowess and push the boundaries of luxury and design. In 1971, the brand approached the renowned Italian design firm Pininfarina to collaborate on the styling of the new model. The chief designer assigned to the project was Paolo Martin, who had previously worked on the Ferrari Daytona and Fiat 130 Coupe. The development of the vehicle took several years, with rigorous testing and refinement to meet the British brand’s high standards. The car’s design aimed to strike a balance between elegance and modernity, reflecting the spirit of the era. Finally, in 1975, the novelty made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show. It was the first production car in the world to feature a full computer system, which controlled various aspects of the vehicle’s performance and comfort. The Camargue boasted cutting-edge technology and luxurious amenities, solidifying its status as the epitome of automotive luxury. Underneath its striking exterior, the automobile shared its platform with the Silver Shadow, utilizing the same V8 engine and automatic transmission. The powertrain provided smooth and effortless performance, befitting a Rolls-Royce. The model’s unique design elements, such as its prominent radiator grille and sharp body creases, divided opinions. While some praised its boldness and individuality, others criticized its unconventional aesthetics. Nonetheless, the Camargue garnered attention for its exclusivity and became a symbol of prestige and rarity.
Source: Historics Auctioneers
The 1982 model year brought forth a range of updates and refinements, further solidifying its position as a symbol of luxury and prestige. Building upon the success of previous iterations, the 1982 edition showcased technical advancements, refined interior and exterior details, and a few notable differences from the previous model year. Under the hood, the 1982 version retained its powerful 6.75-liter V8 engine, delivering effortless performance and a smooth driving experience. Paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, the automobile offered seamless shifts and optimal power delivery. Complementing the refined powertrain, the self-leveling hydraulic suspension system provided exceptional ride comfort and precise handling. Inside the cabin, the 1982 version exuded luxury and sophistication. The interior boasted lavish materials, including plush leather upholstery, exquisite wood trim, and sumptuous carpeting. Passengers were enveloped in luxury, enjoying power-adjustable seats, air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system. The instrument panel displayed a comprehensive range of driving metrics, further enhancing the driving experience. On the exterior, the 1982 release retained its distinctive design cues. The sleek and elongated body featured bold lines, muscular proportions, and a prominent front grille that exuded elegance. The brand offered customization options, allowing buyers to select their preferred paint colors and wheel designs, ensuring a personalized touch. While the 1982 edition retained many of the signature features that made it renowned, there were notable refinements and technological advancements. Improved sound insulation, upgraded electronics, and subtle tweaks to the interior and exterior styling enhanced the overall quality and luxury of the vehicle. These refinements further solidified Camargue’s reputation as a pinnacle of automotive luxury and exclusivity.
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Even though the Camargue deviated from the typical Rolls-Royce appearance, it offered a distinctive opportunity to acquire a rare model at a more affordable price than its more renowned counterparts. While a well-maintained 1980s Corniche can demand around $85,000, and a pristine early 1990s Corniche can reach up to $175,000, a 1982 Camargue in good driving condition can be found for approximately $30,000. This makes the model an enticing option for those seeking to own a unique and less expensive Rolls-Royce automobile.
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