Highlights
- Huge number of invoices and spending into the tens of thousands
- Improved MK-Motronic fuel injection version
- Solid and well-presented throughout
The Appeal
Exclusivity has always been a byword for Bentley, appealing to those associated with wealth but a fine taste in motor cars. The Turbo R, an evolution of the Mulsanne Turbo, carried over the tradition of drawing room comfort with astonishing power. Debuting in 1985, later versions were characterised by their improved fuel injection systems, revised suspension and some appealing visual improvements. Every inch a driver's car, the transformation of placing the Bentley brand again as a sporting marque began with the Turbo R.
As befitting for a car often driven by the well-heeled, one would expect a copious amount of spending and this 1989 example lives up to this expectation. With around £34,500 worth of invoices, mostly related to maintenance, servicing and cosmetics, there’s no suggestion of cutting corners here. These sumptuous and decadent cars are not overtly complex, and with specialists on hand, they can be maintained without too much pain.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered by HR Owen in April 1989
- Full complement of Bentley manuals and original warranty document
- £34,500 worth of old receipts
- Service book stamped to 112,294
- Just four keepers in 33 years – one for 28 years
- Genuine mileage
- Old MOTs, tax discs and Bentley owners club membership
- Over 150 historical invoices
- Current MOT until April 2023
- V5c present
- Two keys
The Interior
- The cabin is in excellent condition
- Cream headlining unmarked
- A clean and tidy boot
- Burr walnut veneered dashboard and door cappings in good condition
- Original Bentley tool kit
- All interior functions, including electric seat controls work
- Sumptuous cream leather seats showing light signs of use
- Front carpets display a little wear
The Exterior
- Balmoral Green finish shows a handful of minor marks but overall is very presentable
- One-piece air dam with twin circular headlamp model
- Structurally positive with good exterior panel fit and gaps
- Reportedly free from corrosion
- All trim appears to be correct, present and in good order
- Small dent on the front grille surround
- Slight bubbling on the rear offside passenger door
- Minor scuffs on the rear bumper rubber
- Turbo alloy wheels show minor signs of age on rear
- Front Avon Turbospeed tyres are legal but low on tread
The Mechanics
- High-performance 6.75-litre Turbo V8 engine
- High-pressure hydraulics power brakes and self-levelling suspension are said to work well
- Slick three-speed GM gearbox
- The owner informs us that it starts, runs and stops as it should, idles well with no interruptions
- Thousands spent on maintenance and servicing over the last 20 years
- Regular health checks by Rolls Royce specialist
Summary
The huge number of invoices will add plenty of confidence to the mechanical hardiness of this well-looked-after example. The car had been consistently used and enjoyed over the years and clearly has many more miles to offer. Its brutal yet controllable power doesn’t need to be used every time you drive it, but it's always a special experience to witness the spectacle of 2.5 tonnes of British metal move so briskly in lavish surroundings. A great luxury classic choice, the Bentley Turbo R’s are temptingly obtainable these days and like all appreciating assets, one should buy sooner rather than later.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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