Chevy-Powered Rolls-Royce Corniche Dakar Rally Car

In 1981, two French enthusiasts entered a highly modified Rolls-Royce Corniche in the grueling Dakar Rally. Sporting a Toyota HJ45 Land Cruiser chassis, four-wheel-drive system, and a 350-ci (5.7-liter) Chevrolet V8 engine, this remarkable vehicle became a fan favorite. Despite the unorthodox choice, the 'Jules' Corniche showcased surprising competitiveness, navigating the harsh desert to finish the rally — albeit stripped of points due to an 'illegal repair.' The build retained only the original windows, bumpers, dashboard, and front grille, while a fiberglass body replicated the Rolls' aesthetic over its sturdy frame. The build remains a captivating piece of Dakar history.