The Bentley Turbo R was introduced in 1985 as an update to the earlier Mulsanne Turbo. Whilst largely the same vehicle, attention was given to the roadholding qualities of the vehicle (hence the ‘R’ in the name), with a retuned suspension setup and alloy wheels mounting wider tyres. By using increased damping rates, stiffer anti-roll bar rates front and rear, and a panhard rod for the rear sub-frame, a more sporting setup was achieved giving a firmer, better controlled ride. The engine was initially the same turbocharged, 6.75 litre, pushrod V8 unit, with 3-speed GM Hydramatic transmission as fitted to the Mulsanne Turbo, but this received upgrades during the model run - most significantly a switch from carburettors to Bosch fuel injection, giving an estimated power output in excess of 300bhp and a substantial 480 lb-ft of torque. This is a deceptively fast vehicle with a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed close to 140 mph. Other mechanical updates made included a higher rear axle ratio and anti-lock brakes. Visually, twin round headlamps and a bigger front spoiler were adopted. The car received more significant upgrades in the mid ’90s and production ran on until 1999. A little under 6,000 of the original Turbo R models were manufactured. This vehicle was first registered in the UK in November 1989 and has been sparingly driven in the hands of just 3 owners, with the low mileage confirmed by a full dealer service record through to 2000 – with only 29,219 miles recorded at that time. The third owner bought the car to Jersey in 2001, where it has remained ever since and been subject to limited further use. The vehicle has been stored in recent years and not regularly exercised, so would benefit from some light re-commissioning work.

A very desirable Bentley – a grand tourer capable of a quite reasonable sporting turn. This car has had limited, careful use over its 30 year life, accumulating only a low mileage whilst being kept garaged and in a very good condition. As the car has not been driven for the last few years, it would benefit from a service to return it to a first-rate condition throughout. The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with shipping and importing processes if required. We can ship worldwide.

Whilst this is a large, heavy car, some attempt at weight saving has been made through the use of aluminium bonnet, bootlid and door skins. The fabric of this car has clearly been very well cared for - the coachwork is in very good condition, as is the silver paintwork. There are a couple of very small marks which can be found in the bonnet and one of the doors.

The sumptuous interior of this Bentley Turbo R is in excellent condition, as might be anticipated with such a low mileage vehicle. The ivory leather seats and dark blue carpeting show little sign of use and the polished veneer of the instrument panel, door cappings and picnic tables are un-marked.

The V8 engine is under-stressed in this application, majoring on torque rather than high revs. The car drives very well through its 3-speed automatic gearbox, wafting comfortably along on its fully independent coil-spring suspension setup, augmented with a self-leveling hydro-pneumatic system at the rear. Although the current owner has carried out some maintenance work, the car would benefit from a routine mechanical service.