Lot 640: 1970 Bentley T1 Saloon

Predating Bentley’s 1980s resurgence, the T1 was produced in far fewer numbers than the equivalent Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, the ratio being 11:1 in the Shadow’s favour, and is considerably rarer today.
This Bentley T1 was selected by the Bentley Drivers Club to be exhibited at the special weekend launch of the new Bentley Arnage staged at Le Mans in June 1998, where 60 vintage and classic Bentleys from 1925 through to 1980 participated in the event, being selected as among the best representative models available,
The car has had three or four owners since new: the present since September 1993 and the previous from 1977. The odometer had recorded 38,000 miles at time of purchase in 1993, and in the last 10 years the vehicle has averaged about 2,500 miles annually. It has now covered approximately 62,000 miles. While the early history is uncertain, the condition of this car suggests that the recorded mileage is correct.
During the last twelve years the car has benefited from extensive work, including completely overhauling the air conditioning unit (July 2000) which has been checked annually since then. The rear bumpers were re-chromed in 1996 and new carpets and rubber surrounds fitted to the boot. A stainless-steel exhaust system was fitted in 1997 and the under-body Waxoyl protected. The fuel pumps were reconditioned in May 1999 and the gearbox completely overhauled in December that same year. Four new Avon Turbospeed tyres were supplied and fitted in January 2000 since when fewer than 6,000 miles have been covered. Panels have been re-sprayed as and when necessary. A major overhaul was carried out in September 2001 with new brake discs, hoses, bearings, calipers, and also a new ignition coil. A Pioneer stereo radio/cassette and two rear fog lights are the only listed deviations from standard.
Kept in a heated garage by the owner, the car has been regularly serviced and well maintained throughout present ownership by Enfield Auto Electrical, now renamed William Medcalf Ltd, specialist Bentley engineers under the direction first of Bill Medcalf, Technical Director of the Bentley Drivers Club, and more recently by his son William. Service records are available from 1993. Finished in two-tone silver/grey with red leather interior, the car is offered with cherished plate ‘PVS 601’, current road fund licence/MoT and Swansea V5.