Lot 316: 1988 Bentley Turbo R Saloon

Launched at the Geneva Salon in 1982, the Bentley Mulsanne Turbo provoked a rash of headlines proclaiming ‘The return of the Blower Bentley.’ In developing their engine to accept a Garrett AiResearch turbo-charger, Rolls-Royce’s engineers had to overcome the inevitable drawback of ‘turbo lag’, but apart from the necessary complication that this involved, needed to make few fundamental changes to the rugged 6,750cc V8. Despite its not inconsiderable weight, the Turbo would accelerate to 60mph in around eight seconds, with 135mph showing on the clock before the limiter cut in. Introduced at Geneva in 1985, the Turbo R continued the theme, but with the added refinement of suspension better suited to the car’s increased performance. Bentley’s much-improved sports saloon was greeted with approval by Autocar magazine. ‘There was a time, not so long ago, when Bentley played a faint second fiddle to Rolls-Royce. That is no longer the case. Rolls-Royce’s management now recognises the value of the Bentley name and tradition and has developed the image - along with the sales - to take advantage. In a terribly upmarket way, Bentley is now the enthusiast, high performance partner, and never more so than in the turbo-charged Bentley R.’ Outwardly the R differed by virtue of its cast-alloy wheels shod with low-profile Pirelli tyres, while inside there was a revised fascia with rev-counter included amongst the comprehensive instrumentation. In a break with Rolls-Royce tradition, power figures were made public, revealing that the engine produced a 320bhp and a staggering 475lb/ft of torque. Few cars were - or are - better suited to fast long-distance touring. Described as in excellent condition mechanically, with good bodywork and original interior, this Bentley Turbo R benefits from a recent brake overhaul and new front springs and shock absorbers. Finished in Ebony Black metallic with parchment leather interior, the car is offered with substantial service history including numerous bills and expired MoTs, Swansea V5 registration document and MoT to June 2008.