1969 Bentley T-Series MPW Drophead

Lot details
Registration No: SVU109H
Chassis No: DBH7769
Mot Expiry: March 2016

- 1 of only 41 examples built

- Recent repaint, retrim and hood, overhauled mechanically

- Finished in the original shade of Ming Blue

For 1965, Rolls-Royce launched their new and unitary-construction four-door saloon which was available in either Rolls-Royce or Bentley versions. A limited number of Bentley two-door saloons followed with coachwork by James Young or Mulliner Park Ward whilst, from 1967 to 1971, just 41 convertible examples are believed to have been built wearing coachwork by Mulliner Park Ward. Initially powered by a 6230cc V8 (enlarged to 6750cc in 1970) coupled to a silky-smooth GM three-speed automatic transmission, progress in any T Series is rapid and completely effortless.

This extremely rare convertible was, according to its copy sales invoice and build sheet, supplied via Rippon Bros. to a Mr Percy Lee of Sheffield in 1969, and first registered on 13th January 1970. It is interesting to note that the list price would have exceeded that of an Aston Martin DB6 Volante! Upon Mr Lee's death in 1999, the car was exported to the USA becoming the property of a Mr Anderson in Connecticut. During this period the colour was changed from its original blue to gunmetal grey whilst the dry climate took its toll on the leather interior. After its subsequent return to the UK, the car was purchased by the vendor in 2012 who set about returning it to its former glory. The works included a repaint in its original shade of Ming Blue whilst the interior was retrimmed in tan leather. A new hood and tonneau were fitted and a careful mechanical overhaul carried out including attention to the brakes, suspension and hood mechanism. The radiator was also replaced.

Now described as having "very good" paintwork, bodywork and transmission, with "excellent" interior and "good" engine, this elegant Bentley convertible is accompanied by a current MoT to February 2016. The lucky new owner can certainly look forward to stylish motoring with an exclusivity that would normally command a far greater asking price.