Bomb-proof Bentley for Shannons Melbourne Sale

This outwardly standard-looking 1985 Bentley Mulsanne Turbo that was built to be both bomb and bullet-proof is being offered with ‘no reserve’ at Shannons Summer Auction in Melbourne on December 5. It is expected to sell for $14,000-$18,000.

• Perfect for Presidents and Prime Ministers

• Riot and road rage ready

Some desirable Classics are described as ‘bullet-proof’ investments, but the 1985 Bentley Mulsanne Turbo Saloon crossing the block at Shannons up-coming December 5 Melbourne Summer Auction allegedly is bomb-proof too!

Originally delivered in 1985 to the London Embassy of the State of Qatar for use by His Excellency Sheikh M A Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Ruler of Quatar, the otherwise unassuming Bentley Mulsanne being auctioned by Shannons on December 5 is believed to be unique in one important aspect.

While already rare at one of just 496 turbocharged variants of the Mulsanne Turbo built, Shannons believe it could be the most armoured example ever to come to auction, boasting comprehensive bomb-proofing to protect its Royal occupants.

Made with 10mm thick armour plating and 40mm-thick window glass by the then-Manor Armour Company in the UK, the Bentley also has an in-built fire extinguishing system, making it ideal for endangered celebrities.

Thankfully, its armoured protection reportedly was never called upon and the Bentley arrived unscathed in Australia in 2010, where it has been cared for by a Queensland-based enthusiast until recently.

Despite its bomb and bullet-proofing, which has taken the Bentley’s weight to more than four tonnes, Shannons say the Mulsanne Turbo remains a spirited performer, while the twin brake callipers fitted to each front wheel disc delivering impressive stopping power for its bulk.

With just 39,980 miles – believed genuine – showing on its odometer at the time of cataloguing, Shannons believe the Bentley will appeal to both Bentley enthusiasts and armoured vehicle collectors.

Offered with ‘no reserve’, it will be supplied with its original assembly and final inspection check lists, along with a copy of the original purchase receipt and its warranty supplied by Rolls-Royce, dated March 28^th, 1985.

Shannons expect it to sell in the $14,000-$18,000 range, making it potentially a bullet-proof investment.

View all December 5 Shannons Melbourne Summer Auction lots

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