Lot 703: 1981 Bentley Mulsanne Saloon

Based on the immensely successful Silver Shadow II, the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and Bentley Mulsanne were announced in the autumn of 1980, the latter�s evocative name recalling Bentley�s heroic, Le Mans-winning exploits of the 1920s. Representing evolution rather than revolution, the duo�s revised styling featured a lower waistline, increased glass area and a more modern angular look, while beneath the skin significant improvements had been made to the self-levelling rear suspension. Rectangular headlights graced the front of a Rolls-Royce-built product for the first time and the oft-changed radiator became wider and squatter in both Rolls and Bentley versions. Inside, the Crewe firm�s exemplary standards of equipment and finish were maintained, the most noticeable change being the adoption of separate rear seats.
First owned by one Roland Chase of Leatheringsett, Norfolk, this example was purchased by the current (second) owner on 3rd June 1996, by which time it had recorded circa 88,800 miles from new. While in the vendor�s care the car has undergone significant refurbishment, benefiting from a re-spray (carried out in 1997) and the fitting of a new headlining, exhaust system, fuel tank and tyres. Related bills and receipts totalling �5,000 come with the car, which currently displays at total of circa 100,000 miles on the odometer. Attractively finished in laurel green with tan/beige leather interior, it is offered with car cover, old-style logbook, current MoT and Swansea V5 document, and is described as �ready to drive away�. (It should be noted that the registration mark �FCT 452� is being retained by the vendor).