Halcyon’s second restomod celebrates the 6.75-litre L-Series V8

Chances are, you don’t need us to regale you with tales of the Rolls-Royce–Bentley L-Series V8 engine. Given it was in production for more than 60 years, you probably already know the story.

Instead, why don’t we just bask in these lovely images of a Rolls-Royce Corniche Fixed Head Coupe that’s of course fitted with the great six-and-three-quarter.

Although hang on a second, because that isn’t a standard Mulliner Park Ward-designed Fixed Head Coupe up there. In fact, it’s called the Rose and Scroll design study, and it’s the second restomod to come from Surrey-based firm Halcyon.

Now, you may remember that Halcyon’s first Corniche/Silver Shadow effort was actually an EV, but this one is apparently all about celebrating the big eight-cylinder lump up front.

So, in true Rolls fashion, the engine is now described as providing “more than adequate performance” with increased torque and improved responsiveness. No mention of power or 0-62mph times.

There is plenty of modern tech though, including a new braking system and adaptive suspension with electronically controlled dampers. Heck, there’s even three different drive modes, although Halcyon ensures us that the drive “honours the original car’s waftability”.

On the outside there are options including uninterrupted chrome bumpers, bespoke headlights and unique wheel designs for the full restomod treatment, while inside the Rose and Scroll gets a hidden screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Nice. We’re also promised a bespoke high-end sound system, cruise control, a reversing camera, air conditioning and heated/ventilated electrically adjustable seats.

Of course, this lovely green-over-tan example won’t be the only one. In fact, Halcyon wants to build 60 cars as part of what it’s calling ‘The Great Eight Series’. Prospective customers will just need to stump up £425,000 to get themselves on the list. Oh, and they’ll need to provide or pay for a donor Fixed Head Coupe or Drop Head Coupe, or if they want four doors then a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow or Bentley T-Series is also an option.

Each build then takes around 12 months, with 5,000 hours going into a process that kicks off with a bare metal restoration.

So, the real question is would you have this 6.75-litre V8, or the 800-volt EV with its 400bhp motor?