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2021 Shannons '40th Anniversary' Timed Online Auction
Lot
169

1994 Bentley Turbo R Saloon

$70,000

Melbourne

Sold

Specifications

Engine 6.7 litre V8 Turbo
Gearbox Four-speed Automatic
Body Work Sedan
Colour Green
Interior Tan
Trim Leather
Wheels Cast Alloy
Brakes Disc/disc

Description

This lot is no longer available

With the introduction of the Silver Spirit in 1980, Rolls-Royce continued to offer a Bentley variant and the new Mulsanne - named after the longest straight at Le Mans, scene of no less than five victories for the Bentley marque - was distinguished by its unique radiator shell, badging and wheel trims. The Mulsanne, and its Rolls-Royce sibling, provided ample performance from the 6.75-litre V8 (power, as always, being undisclosed and merely described as 'adequate') and the ride was superb thanks to independent suspension with coil springs front and rear, along with the Girling hydraulic self-levelling system. In an attempt to distance the Bentley marque from the Flying Lady, a turbocharged version of the Mulsanne was announced at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, adding startling performance to bespoke luxury. A Garrett AirResearch turbocharger boosted power output by as much as 50 per cent, providing fantastic acceleration for such a big car. Inside, the Mulsanne boasted sumptuous leather upholstery, deep pile carpets and a traditional polished walnut-veneer fascia with full instrumentation. To distinguish the Turbo from the regular Mulsanne, Bentley added light alloy wheels, Turbo badging and the radiator shell was painted in the body colour. In 1985, Bentley introduced the Turbo R (which stood for roadholding), featuring wider Pirelli 275/55 P7 rubber on new alloy wheels. 

The Turbo R sold in comparatively small numbers but was the first step in a major revival of the marques fortunes and represents unparalleled value for money today.