Lot details Registration No: P138JRA Chassis No: SCBZB15C2TCH53192 Mot Expiry: Sept 2005
When Bentley launched their Continental in September 1955 - with 4.9-litre engine from the standard S Series, though with higher compression ratio boosting acceleration and a longer axle ratio enhancing long distance comfort on the continent - it was a sensation. The wind tunnel honed and H J Mulliner crafted Fastback, all 17ft 8ins of it, offered what was in those rather austere days absolutely sensational styling.
Similarly, at the Geneva Show in March 1982, the Mulsanne Turbo made the headlines for heralding "The return of the Blower Bentley". For despite its luxurious bulk, the Turbo could reach 60mph in around eight seconds and achieve 135mph (controlled by speed limiter). Again at Geneva, at the 1985 Show and externally distinguished by low-profile Pirelli shod cast alloy wheels, the Bentley Turbo R continued the theme, though with suspension better suited to even greater performance and revised facia including tachometer. Also on display on the Bentley stand was Project 90, a non-working mock-up intended to gauge customer reaction.
The resultant Bentley Continental R, which came to the market six years later, was once again such a show stopper that even the rarely very excited hack-pack at the unveiling applauded enthusiastically. Although very definitely styled for the 1990s, the new car nonetheless still looked every inch a Bentley. With four-speed automatic transmission having an overdrive ratio top, the wind-cheating beauty could whisk its occupants in the greatest luxury from zero to 60mph in under six seconds and on to 150mph if required.
Said to be the proverbial "Property of a Gentleman and a real Bentley enthusiast", this Continental R, a right-hand drive car with Mulliner Park Ward coachwork, was hand-built in 1996. Fully loaded with such goodies as electric adjustable steering column, the two-door coupe is said to have cost almost £200,000. More recently, a further £10,000 has been invested on factory upgrades such as a 400bhp motor, laser-cut matrix grille, oval exhaust, Continental RT 2002 alloys and Alpine stereo with six-CD changer.
The 33,000 miles displayed on the odometer when entered for this sale is certified by the vendor to be the genuine total mileage for this luxury express from new. The MOT was last passed two months ago, so the current certificate will be valid until September next year.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035