Book excerpt: Rolls-Royces and Bentleys are among the most prestigious cars in the world and, as such, attract a highly discerning clientele. The Silver Shadow, along with its rarer sibling the Bentley T, were the first Rolls-Royce designed models to feature modern construction methods, albeit the cars were built to the highest of standards by craftsmen in accordance with the firms’ long standing traditions. It is no wonder these cars are revered internationally by marque enthusiasts for their initial build quality, comfort and effortless performance. The Essential Buyer’s Guide to the Silver Shadow and Bentley T is, in effect, having expert advice pocket size! Intended for marque owners and novice enthusiasts alike, Malcolm Bobbitt’s practical and easy to follow book will allow the potential purchaser of one of these prestige cars to confidently and quickly assess a vehicle as to its true condition. The guide equips the buyer to take a professional approach when viewing a car, and to decide within fifteen minutes whether it is worth taking a longer and more detailed examination. This guide provides all the information and advice necessary to embark upon an hour-long appraisal of the car, and to judge whether it is the right vehicle at the right price. Featured in this guide are specially selected illustrations to help properly evaluate a potential purchase. Information on the Rolls-Royce and Bentley community, such as marque specialists and clubs, is given, along with all the cars’ vital statistics. This book covers all models in the Silver Shadow and Bentley T range to include the highly sought after coachbuilt types. Not only will it guide buyers in making the right choice of car, the information imparted will ensure enjoyable motoring and satisfying Rolls-Royce and Bentley ownership. The book identifies all the common problem areas with 100 clear color photographs and jargon free text.