Lot 01: Bentley Eight

Introduced in 1984, the Eight was intended to attract younger, more entrepreneurial buyers to the newly resurgent Bentley marque. A more sporting proposition than its Mulsanne sibling thanks to specially stiffened front suspension and sharper steering, the newcomer was visually distinguished by a Le Mans-esque wire mesh radiator grille - though a more conventional slatted grille remained optional. The combination of Crewe's excellent and long-lived 6.75 litre OHV V8 engine mated to automatic transmission gave the handsome four-door saloon a reputed top speed of 130mph. Trading picnic tables and maple eye walnut for grained wood veneers and a substantial price cut, the Eight was a conspicuous success. Upgraded in 1986 with ABS brakes and Bosch fuel injection, the model had its target audience extended to include Europe and the USA, and by the time production ceased in 1992, 1736 had been sold worldwide. Riding on `turbine' alloy wheels, this particular example's dark blue paintwork is offset by cream leather upholstery. An imposing luxury saloon offered for sale at hatchback money, `J499 MRG' is accompanied by a MOT certificate current until March 2010.