Lot 182 - 1997 Bentley Turbo R Long Wheelbase
| Lot Number | 182 |
| Registration | P778 MRK |
| Chassis Number | SCBZP15C1VCH59487 |
| Engine Number | 87891L410M/T1T |
| Odometer reading | 13,500 miles |
| Result | Sold - £30,000 |
- Only 13,500 miles from new
- Very good service history
- First owner owned for 20 years
Based on the Mulsanne chassis, the Bentley Turbo R was built to be a serious high-performance machine, and like its predecessor, this Bentley had a turbocharged engine, however, the R was more highly tuned and a touch sportier. With Bosch fuel-injection increasing torque levels, uprated suspension, anti-roll bars, and superior dampers, the Bentley Turbo was surprisingly nimble for a car of its size and fitted with a 6750cc V8 capable of 135mph, it was a real performer in a straight line too. Rave reviews in the press helped dealers move the Turbo R in relatively substantial numbers, one report by Motor Trend described it as ‘The first Bentley in decades deserving of that famous name’. The suspension changes, though seemingly subtle, transformed the heavy car into a real performer and slotted above the Bentley Mulsanne S and Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and it carved a well-deserved niche in the world of performance saloons.
This exceptional H.R. Owen supplied Bentley Turbo R Long Wheelbase has only covered 13,500 miles from new. Registered on 1st January 1997, the first owner, being chauffeur driven, had the car for 20 years until 2017 and only covered 13,035 miles. The second owner sent the car to The Chelsea Workshop who carried out a full service and replaced the steering rack all at a cost of £4,400, in his ownership he has added a further 450 miles to the total. Finished in Diamond Blue Silver with Royal Blue hide which has been described as virtually perfect and Burr Walnut wood veneer. A superb service history accompanies P778 MRK and we have been informed that it is driving exceptionally well. This Turbo R Long Wheelbase is supplied with a V5 registration document, an MoT test certificate which expires in March 2022 and a file containing copies of the service history from H.R. Owen, past MoT test certificates, a copy of the build sheets and a copy of The Chelsea Workshop invoices. These magnificent machines were one of the finest ever manufactured at Crewe and are fast becoming recognised as such, and this example is probably the best of the best.
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.