Lot 401: 1979 Bentley T2 Saloon

Outwardly distinguishable from the Silver Shadow only by virtue of its different radiator and winged ‘B’ mascot, the T-Series Bentley was introduced alongside its Rolls-Royce sibling in 1965. Mechanically identical, the duo represented a complete break with tradition, being the first of the Crewe factory’s models to employ unitary construction. Originally of 6,230cc, the pushrod V8 engine grew to 6,750cc in 1970 and provided identical power in either application. Nevertheless, Autocar’s T2 proved the fastest of the Shadow family that the magazine had tested, accelerating to 60mph in under 10 seconds and achieving a maximum speed of 119mph. Introduced in 1977 alongside the Shadow II, the T2 gained split-level air-conditioning, rack and pinion steering, revised dashboard and chin spoiler.
This Bentley T2 remained in the possession of its first owner from 1979 to 1997, being regularly serviced by Mann Egerton of Nottingham from whom it had been purchased new. The current (second) owner acquired the car in 1997 at 82,116 miles and has added a mere 2,000-or-so miles to the total since then. The bodywork benefits from refurbishment carried out by Healey Brothers in 1997 when the front wings, sills, wheelarches and one rear wing underwent repair, and the vehicle was last serviced by recognised specialists Straight Eight in April 2000 when the hydraulic system was overhauled, the fuel pump replaced and other works undertaken at a cost of £1,721. Finished in Willow Gold with beige leather upholstery and brown carpeting, the car is described by the private vendor as in generally good condition, although we are advised that the gear selector must be in neutral for it to start. The vehicle is offered with sundry service/maintenance invoices and Swansea V5 registration document.