The 1981 Rolls-Royce Dakar Rally Racer that just sold at auction for around $630,000 might seem like an unexpected find for a luxury car brand known for chauffeured rides through city streets rather than off-road racing. But this unique Rolls-Royce Corniche, nicknamed “Jules,” defies expectations with its thrilling history.
A Luxury Car Turned Rally Racer
In 1981, a French playboy named Thierry de Montcorgé had a wild idea to enter a Rolls-Royce into the grueling Paris–Dakar Rally, a challenging race from Paris, France, to Dakar, Senegal. This decision transformed the elegant Corniche into a beastly competitor, swapping its original 6.8-liter engine for a powerful 5.7-liter small-block Chevy V-8. The modifications didn’t stop there – the Corniche’s bodywork was replaced with lightweight plastic panels, and it received a tubular steel roll cage and a massive 88-gallon fuel tank, making it ready for the rough terrain ahead.
The Rise and Fall of “Jules”
Despite its striking appearance and impressive upgrades, the Rolls-Royce Corniche “Jules” faced challenges during the 1981 Dakar Rally. Montcorgé’s daring adventure came to an abrupt halt when he crashed the car into a tree near the end of the race. However, “Jules” showcased its potential by reaching as high as 13th place out of nearly 300 competitors and hitting speeds of up to 120 mph on gravel roads. After repairs, Montcorgé eventually completed the course, proving the resilience of this unconventional rally racer.
The Auction and Legacy of a Racing Icon
Recently, the iconic “Jules” was auctioned by the French house Aguttes, fetching an impressive sale price of approximately $630,000. This significant sum reflects the rarity and historical value of this Rolls-Royce Dakar Rally Racer, immortalizing its daring journey from luxury car to off-road legend.
Caleb Miller, a car enthusiast and motorsports fan, shared his fascination with unique vehicles like the Rolls-Royce Corniche “Jules.” His passion for the automotive world and its unconventional stories highlights the enduring appeal of extraordinary cars that defy expectations and captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
