Lot 402: 1978 Bentley T2

The arrival of the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow and Bentley T series in late 1965 marked a major change in Rolls-Royce motor cars; previously the products of Crewe had employed separate chassis but here was a car using unitary construction of chassis and body. This change, brought about by perceived market demands that considered the upright styling of the Silver Cloud/S series rather dated, inevitably decreed more uniform coachwork compared to the elegant designs that had gone before - but underneath the skin the new Rolls-Royce/Bentley offered even greater engineering excellence and sophistication. At the Silver Shadow's heart was Rolls-Royce's familiar all-alloy V8 engine retaining the same 6,230cc as in the Silver Cloud III/S3 and a power output of around 220bhp. It was in the chassis, however, that important changes were made, most notably the adoption of all round independent suspension, including a sophisticated engine pump-driven self-levelling system, and disc brakes. The Silver Shadow II/Bentley T2 followed in 1977 and was visually distinguishable from the original model by the adoption of black impact absorbing bumpers and a subtle front air dam. Mechanically the new model benefited from an increase in engine size to 6,750cc, revised suspension and braking systems and a change from worm and roller to rack and pinion steering. Of the entire Silver Shadow/T series production, less than ten percent were Bentleys, ensuring their exclusivity amongst knowledgeable enthusiasts. Presented in dark green metallic paintwork with colour-coded radiator and beige seats, complete with front head restraints, piped in green, and privacy glass, this 1978 Bentley T2 is supplied with a history file that includes copies of service and maintenance receipts. Recently fitted with a new exhaust system, it is offered in fair to good condition and comes with a V5 registration document and a MoT test certificate and road fund licence both valid for 12 months.