Lot 20: Bentley EIGHT

1982 was to mark the beginning of Bentley's resurgence as a sporting marque with the introduction of the Mulsanne turbo. Two years later, a new variant was to appear  the Bentley Eight. The new model was to cost some �10,000 less than the Mulsanne, its sporting image enhanced by the chrome mesh grille and a discreetly fitted front spoiler. Although the specification was actually slightly reduced in terms of interior trim, this was actually barely noticeable with the main difference being straight grain walnut instead of the more traditional burr. Alongside the Mulsanne and Turbo R stable mates, the Bentley Eight was to continue until 1992, by which time some 1734 examples had been built. Its leviathan proportions notwithstanding, the car was able to accelerate to 60mph from a standstill in a creditable 9.5 seconds, with a top speed of some 130mph. Dating from 1986, this example of the Bentley Eight has clearly been extremely well maintained. Offered for sale with comprehensive service history, it has covered just over 78,700 miles at time of writing and is finished in Horse Chestnut Brown with Parchment and Red hide. The coachwork is extremely smart having a deep lustre and careful refurbishment has been undertaken which included restoration to the wheels, this having been carried out during the past year. A full service is reported to have been undertaken less than 1,000 miles ago. Mechanically we are assured that the car is excellent in all respects, with all equipment and instrumentation fully functional. Previous MOT certificates dating from 1995 are provided together with the aforementioned history and the car is only being sold due to lack of use. Also included are the driver's handbook and current MOT certificate, this valid until 12th February 2009.