***Car will be sold with original Reg EGU402H***
Highlights
- Exceptionally original interior
- First owner from 1970 to 2004
- One of very few coachbuilt drop head coupés
The Appeal
This Bentley T Series is an exceedingly good looking example of the marque, fitted with a drop head coupé body by Mulliner Park Ward, which makes it a very rare automobile. These Bentleys and their Rolls-Royce counterparts represented the very height of luxury when the first owner ordered this car in 1969.
Delivered and registered in 1970, this Bentley was kept by its first custodian for many decades, only changing hands for the first time in 2004. So clearly it is a car to be cherished.
Finished in its original colour of Caribbean Blue and retaining its original blue leather upholstery and carpets, we think this is a fabulous example of the last word in mid-century luxury. And, with its bulging history file, recent recommissioning work and superbly engineered mechanical components, this Bentley stands ready to be driven anywhere.
The History and Paperwork
- Supplied by Mead Cockshoot Ltd.
- First registered 15th July 1970
- Original warranty document
- First owner believed to have kept the car until 2004
- Original Rolls-Royce service booklet
- Extensive history file
- Many old MOT certificates and tax discs
- A huge stack of invoices for parts and servicing
- Private registration plate not included
- Road Tax and MOT exempt
The Interior
- Original dark blue leather upholstery
- Original carpets
- Beautifully veneered dashboard
It’s hard to know where to start with the fabulously preserved interior of this car. The original leather seats are in remarkably good condition given that they are now over fifty years old. There is, of course, a little creasing to the leather, but this is very minor and only adds to the character. There are no significant marks or scratches to speak of and they certainly have many more decades of life left in them.
The carpets are believed to be original and the deep lambswool overmats add a luxurious feel to the cabin; they are similarly clean and blemish-free.
The dashboard presents the driver with a beautiful scene: highly polished veneer supports a sea of gauges, lights and chrome switches, keeping the driver abreast of the car’s performance and condition. A period ‘Slot Stereo’ sits proudly in the centre console and all the interior features are said to function as they should, even the air conditioning.
To the rear, the boot features the usual full size spare wheel and a full tool kit, as well as a matching blue suitcase and neatly furled umbrella.
The Exterior
- ‘Caribbean Blue’ paintwork in excellent condition
- Chrome fittings faultless
- Original drophead hood beautifully preserved
With its beautifully crafted coachwork by Mulliner Park Ward, this Bentley is a rolling tribute to the coachbuilder’s craft. Very few cars were produced with this body, we’re told that in 1970 only three others were built like this.
The paint appears to have been resprayed at some point in its recent history, and remains in excellent condition. There are almost no discernible scratches, chips or marks. Similarly, the chrome is exceedingly well preserved, with no pitting or flaking to be found. The prominent Bentley radiator grille is in particularly fine order.
Underneath, there is no reported damage or corrosion, and the car appears to have been exceptionally well cared for.
The Mechanics
- 6¼ litre V8 engine
- Extensive service history
- Recently recommissioned
The V8 engine at the heart of this Bentley provides ample power from its 6¼ litres of displacement and is presented in good condition. The vendor informs us that the car has received a thorough recommissioning service in their workshops and is now ready to be driven anywhere. Bentleys of this vintage were designed to cross continents with ease and we’re sure a car such as this would complete such a journey with ease.
The running gear appears to be in good condition and we’re told that none of the major mechanical components have been replaced, other than routine servicing. There are no reported leaks or smoke, and the car is said to drive faultlessly.
Summary
This Bentley offers a rare opportunity to acquire a car produced in extremely low numbers in this particular guise. Its coachbuilt body is evidently very well crafted and its lines are beautiful to behold.
And with a very well preserved original interior, excellent paintwork and almost flawless chrome, there’s very little we could find fault with this car. It will make an excellent touring car, and will certainly be of interest to investors.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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