Lot 196 - 1966 Bentley T1
| Lot Number | 196 |
| Registration | EWP 85J |
| Chassis Number | SBH 1460 |
| Engine Number | 1460 |
| Odometer reading | 98,492 miles |
| Result | Sold - £9,800 |
- Rare ‘Chippendale’ dashboard
- Good all round condition
The Bentley T-Series was the Bentley badged version of the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, available as a four or two door saloon with coachwork by James Young or Mulliner Park Ward. The Bentley differed from its Rolls-Royce equivalent by its more rounded front grille, while the badging on the wheel covers, boot lid and gauges naturally featured Bentley motifs rather than the Rolls-Royce logo. In October 1966, the ‘T’ saloon's pre-tax 'list price' of £5,375 undercut the Rolls-Royce by £50. The Bentley was technically an identical twin of the Rolls-Royce and seemed to have been purchased mostly by owners wishing for a more understated luxury saloon. The former sporting image of Bentley motor cars differing from Rolls-Royces had gone by the time the Silver Shadow/Bentley ‘T’ was introduced and this was no longer a primary reason to purchase a Bentley over the Rolls-Royce sibling.
Originally registered in the UK on 3rd October 1966, this Bentley T1 is finished in blue with grey leather interior and is fitted with the highly desirable ‘Chippendale’ dashboard. These delightful Bentleys are effortless to drive and can be likened to ‘driving your favourite armchair’. The 6230cc Rolls-Royce V8 engine is quite and smooth in operation and offers great reliability. The Bentley equivalent of the Silver Shadow was produced in far fewer number than the Rolls-Royce, the ratio being 11:1 in the Shadow’s favour making the Bentley T1 a rare car today.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.