*** Interested parties should note, this vehicle was subject to a CAT D insurance loss in 06/2017 ***
Highlights
- Only three former owners from new
- Everything reported to function as it should
- Attractive late ‘round headlight’ model
The Appeal
Based upon Rolls-Royce’s Silver Spirit, the Mulsanne served as Bentley’s executive 4-door from 1980 to 1992. This 1990 ‘S’ example, features alloy wheels first seen on the Mulsanne Turbo, while the quintessentially ‘80s rectangular headlights of earlier models are replaced by round items.
With only three former keepers and a service history from the original supplier P&A Wood, this Bentley has clearly been loved by its owners and is now looking for its next custodian…
The History and Paperwork
- This vehicle was declared a Category D total insurance loss in 2017
- Purchased from and maintained for many years by P&A Wood
- Three former keepers
- Previous owner had the car since 2000
- MOT expired July 2022
The Interior
- Cream leather
- Walnut veneer
- Alpine stereo head unit
Mulsannes are beautifully appointed inside and this 1990 example is no exception. Swathes of cream leather adorn the seats and the dashboard fascia is finished in a stunning walnut veneer.
As one would expect from a 32 year-old car, there is some wear evident on the seats, especially the driver’s side where there is some cracking and discoloration to the seat bolsters. Evidently, this Bentley’s former keeper made good use of the door-mounted armrest, as it now wears quite a heavy patina.
Nevertheless, we identified no signs of damage and the leather appears to be quite serviceable as it is. The back seats have very little wear indeed, suggesting that this Mulsanne has had few rear passengers over the years.
The veneer on the dashboard and door cappings appears to be in really good order with no cracking in the finish we could see. It would seem that an Alpine Stereo head unit has been fitted at some point and the vendor informs us that this, and all the other switchgear, works exactly as it should. The carpets present well, as does the headlining - both of which are very usable.
Besides the odd blemish to the carpeting, the boot looks to be very smart and a full complement of tools, bulbs and fuses are stored within. There is also a period RAC first aid kit.
The Exterior
- Largely straight and very solid bodywork
- ‘Round headlight’ specification
This Mulsanne is presented in a very fetching shade of metallic blue which appears to be in very good condition. We are informed that the vendor has had some rectification work carried out to the upper portion of the driver’s door, although the evidence of a dent is still slightly visible. The paint was never broken so this should be quite easily corrected.
Elsewhere, the bodywork appears to be very smart and the vendor reports that there is no corrosion evident to the bodywork or underside. We are informed that there is some slight crazing to the paint on the roof, although a good machine polish should help with this.
The ‘S’ alloy wheels all appear to be smart and we were unable to detect any signs of curb rash or lacquer peel. The car sits on factory correct Avon Turbospeed tyres - the last MOT revealing slight cracking / perishing to the offside rear.
The chromework looks to be in really good order, the distinctive Bentley 'Flying B’ and grill gleaming under natural light. There is slight discolouration to the plastic bumpers, but nothing that would unduly concern us.
The Mechanics
- 6.7-litre V8
- All in very good order
- Runs and drives well
The vendor informs us that this Mulsanne S drives excellently, with no untoward noises or quirks the next owner needs to be aware of.
A glance at the MOT history would suggest that this Bentley has had some leaks from various components in recent years although the most recent test would suggest that these have since been rectified.
Making use of Rolls-Royce’s fabled 6.7-litre V8, this Mulsanne accelerates well, riding a wave of torque. The vendor reports that the Bentley also brakes well and corners smoothly.
Summary
A smart example of Bentley’s Mulsanne S, this car is as majestic today as it was in 1990.
This very sound Bentley would be an excellent candidate to make really very lovely indeed, with minimal work. Alternatively, the next owner could continue to enjoy the car in its eminently usable current condition.
Whatever is in store for this Bentley, we’re sure it will be cherished for years to come.
Notice to bidders
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller’s discretion.
