Lot 409: 1972 Bentley T1 Saloon

In 1965, Rolls Royce, well aware that the S series had become dated, unveiled an entirely new model with a specification to silence even the msot vociferous of genigrators. Appearing at the same time as the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow, the Type T Bentley incorporated unitary construction - a completely new departure for the company, self levelling independant suspension, servo disc brakes all round, and a 4 speed automatic gearbox. Craftsmen continued to use beautiful veneers, together with traditional deep pile Wilton carpet and leather upholstery, using eight hides to a car, and even built in quadraphonic sound! Yet beneath the sleek exterior, performance was really remarkable. In 1968 Paul Frere, the well known racing driver, road tested a car (in Silver Shadow Form), over a 2,000-mile three week period from Brussels to Turin and back. The autoroutes were often travelled at 110mph, and the Alps were tackled with disdainful ease. The car really inspires confidence not only because it behaves safely but also because I know it has been properly put together and won't let me down' Of the entire Silver Shadow/T series production, less than ten percent were Bentleys, ensuring its exclusivity amongst knowledgeable enthsuiasts. Described as being in good condition, this car has benefited from being completely refurbished in 1997, receiving a strip down and respray (in the original black), and a restoration of the interior, seats reupholstered, etc. Since this time the car has completed very few miles, with mileage from new being c.107,000. This car has recently undergone a service to the tune of £3,000 reducing items such as tyres and fuel pumps.