Highlights

Very low mileage of under 63,000 miles
Well maintained with sparing recent use
One of only 543 ‘New Turbo R’ models
1996 Model Year car with host of revisions and improvements
Thick history file including original build sheet
MOT to November 2024
Finished in appealing Midnight Blue over Magnolia

The Appeal

It was typical of subtle, understated Bentley that one letter hid a plethora of changes. The ‘R’ in the firm’s new model’s name referred to ‘roadholding’ and a set of suspension tweaks that gave the Turbo R the handling to match the 290bhp forced induction rush.

The car got some light cosmetic revisions and an improved fuel injection system for the 1994 model year. These cars are known as the ‘New Turbo R’ and are popular with collectors. The final cars were built for the 1996 model year and gained a raft of cosmetic and comfort improvements.

Journalist were shocked by just how well the two tonne Turbo R went around corners. Their positive reviews helped cement the firm’s fightback after years of badge-engineered models. But only a few buyers got to experience it, and they needed deep pockets because the purchase price in the 1990s nudged $200,000.

That likely explains why only 543 SWB New Turbo Rs like this one were built. Finished in the popular colour combination of Midnight Blue over Magnolia, it is a very low mileage example showing under 63,000 miles from new. The history file includes the factory build sheet and shows regular servicing.

With MOT to November 2024 this is a very well presented and eminently usable example of one of Bentley’s best sporting saloons.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 31st May 1996
Only seven registered keepers from new
Factory handbooks and organised folder of history
Chassis number confirms this is a 1996 model year car
Only 173 RHD Turbo Rs were built in 1996 and 1997 before production ended
This car is therefore one of the last built
Supplied by Jack Barclay to first keeper on 12th June 1996
Original factory specification sheet shown in photographs
One of only 543 SWB New Turbo R models
14 service stamps to 2010 and 56,534 miles
MOT to 26th November 2024 with 62,437 miles showing and minor advisories have been rectified
Now showing 62,614 miles

The Condition

Smart Midnight Blue metallic paintwork in good order across car
Paintwork shows some minor age-related marks in photographs
There are some light scratches to front and bird lime damage to bonnet
These areas would likely be improved by a professional mop and polish regime
Factory hand-applied red coachline neatly accents the exterior finish
Bodywork is well kept with straight panels and only minor areas of deterioration
These include a small surface bubble of corrosion to leading edge of offside sill
Sits on factory correct Turbo alloy wheels in good order for year and mileage
Factory correct Avon Turbosteel tyres show good condition and tread
Light screen delamination to nearside front corner of windscreen
Remaining glass presents well and lights are in similar condition
Magnolia leather interior with Royal Blue leather piping and reverse contrast trim and carpets
Interior is very well kept and retains the Turbo R features including sports seats and centre console gear shift
Cabin fittings including veneers with hand-applied inlays and leather dash in good order
Dashboard has dark blue upper trim and magnolia knee roll
Switchgear is well kept with clear dials, few marks to trim surrounds and all complete
Fitted with what appears to be a factory Philips radio with navigation system
Dark blue carpets with magnolia piping through cabin and boot, all well kept

The Mechanics

6,750cc Bentley hand-built 290bhp turbocharged V8
Later Turbo R model with improved Zytek fuel injection system
These cars also got improvements like boost control and improve transmission electronics
4spd automatic gearbox with centre console shifter
Well maintained car with servicing to 56,534 miles in 2010
No reported running or driving issues to advise
Minor running gear advisories on current MOT to note

BEFORE YOU BUY

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