Description
Coming to auction at Concours House, Bradford-on-Avon, with Dore & Rees Motoring on Saturday 21st November.
1969 Bentley T1 Saloon
Registration Number: ABW 464G
Chassis Number: SBH5308
- Smooth and powerful 6. 23-litre V8 engine
- Beautifully presented, early serial model
- Dry-climate car in original, well-preserved condition
Introduced in 1965, the Bentley T Series marked a significant departure from Crewe’s traditional separate-chassis construction, adopting a sophisticated unitary body that brought with it notable gains in rigidity, interior space and road manners. Sharing its basic architecture with its Rolls-Royce counterpart, the T1 nevertheless retained a distinct identity, offering the same remarkable engineering with a more discreet and sporting character. Today these early cars are increasingly appreciated for their combination of craftsmanship, technical innovation and understated presence.
This 1969 example was constructed at the famous Crewe works in Derbyshire and is among just 1, 712 T1 saloons produced. An early chassis number, it features the desirable Chippendale-style bird’s-eye walnut fascia, a particularly elegant interpretation of Crewe’s traditional woodwork that perfectly complements the hand-finished leather interior. The cabin remains a fine showcase of British coachbuilt luxury, its atmosphere one of quiet authority and comfort.
Power is provided by Bentley’s magnificent 6, 230cc overhead-valve V8, coupled to the proven Borg-Warner automatic transmission. Effortless in operation and smooth and quiet in motion, this drivetrain endowed the T Series with performance that belied its size and refinement. Contemporary road tests recorded a top speed in the region of 115mph and 0–60mph in just under 11 seconds—remarkable figures for a luxury saloon of the period. Four-wheel disc brakes and the marque’s sophisticated self-levelling suspension system further contributed to its reputation for exceptional ride quality and long-distance capability, while the presence of air conditioning enhances comfort in modern use.
Originally supplied new to South Africa for a gentleman of evident standing, the car was repatriated to the United Kingdom in 2025. It has clearly been well cared for and stored, and coming from a dry climate it has fared extremely well. It is now offered from its sole UK keeper, as stated on the valid UK V5. The recorded mileage of just over 44, 000 miles is commensurate with the car’s highly appealing overall presentation, and it is described as driving with the smoothness and composure for which these Crewe-built motor cars are renowned. Included is an extensive history file, original Bentley handbook and a fabulous Bentley Tie for you, or your Chauffeur.
A truly distinguished example of Bentley’s first monocoque saloon, combining early-production features with low displayed mileage and single UK ownership, this T1 encapsulates the marque’s enduring virtues of refinement, performance and luxury — in the words of its current custodian, very much “the finest gentleman’s club on wheels.”
