Lot 073: 1987 BENTLEY EIGHT

The summer 1984 launched Bentley Eight was in essence a new entry level version of the 1980 launched Bentley Mulsanne. However, in line with the newly emergent policy within Rolls-Royce/Bentley of distancing the two marques, the Eight had a more sporting flavour. Featuring a mesh grille which harked back to the glory days of the marque and slightly simpler interior, the Eight cost nearly £6000 less than the Mulsanne on introduction and was an immediate success, attracting many younger buyers to the marque who would have otherwise bought a top of the line BMW 7-Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Lasting until 1992 when it was replaced by the Brooklands model and steadily developed throughout, the Eight was instrumental in the resurgence of the Bentley marque in the market place and retains the unique driving style, riding comfort and silence which only a Rolls-Royce or Bentley can offer. Finished in metallic grey with mushroom leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good" condition with regard to its automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, chassis, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (while, he rates the engine as "excellent"). Reportedly possessing main dealer service history up to 86,000 miles, marque specialist service history up 95,000 miles and independent garage service history up to 115,000 miles, 'D201 ELE' is believed but not warranted to have covered some 120,000 miles from new. Said to "drive and look superb", this imposing Bentley is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until June 2007 and road tax valid until July 2007.