Lot details Registration No: T.B.A. Chassis No: SCBZE00A5KCH25943 Mot Expiry: May 2012
Introduced in 1984 and based on the luxurious Mulsanne, the Bentley Eight was aimed at a younger more entrepreneurial buyer. The sporting pretensions inspired by its Le Mans-esque mesh grille (the Mulsanne's comprised vertical slats) were supported by stiffer front suspension and sharper steering, endowing the model with tauter handling. Bosch Fuel injection and ABS brakes became standard in 1986, while power memory seats and leather upholstery were added the following year. Automatic ride height adjustment was added in 1990 when catalytic converters became optional, and the automatic gearbox was changed from three speeds to four in 1992. Power was provided by Bentley's ubiquitous 6750cc OHV V8 unit, which endowed the newcomer with swift acceleration and a top speed of 130mph. Suspension was independent by coil springs front and rear, coupled with hydraulic self-levelling height control at the back (from 1990 onwards). Braking was by ventilated discs at the front and solid units at the rear. The idea of trading maple eye walnut for grained wood veneers and a substantial price cut clearly worked, with the originally UK-only Eight eventually being sold in mainland Europe and the USA as well. The model was superseded by the Bentley Brooklands in 1992 after a total of 1,736 had been sold worldwide.
The Bentley Eight being sold is a right-hand drive example that left the Crewe factory in 1989. It features Vermillion coachwork and a Parchment-coloured interior. It is reportedly being sold complete with extensive history, handbooks and original wallet, a selection of old MOTs and spare keys. The private plate currently worn - '521 AWO' - is not, however, included in the sale. The vendor views the bodywork, engine and three-speed automatic transmission as "excellent", and the trim and paintwork as "very good". The indicated mileage of 54,000 is unwarranted. The Bentley is taxed until the end of February 2012 and will not require another MOT until the end of May. Instantly recognisable by their unique sporty radiator grille, Bentley Eights will cut a dash whatever the company and are an eminently affordable option at today's prices. For a combination of taut handling and traditional British luxury they are surely hard to beat.
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