Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2024 - Cars on Saturday the 9th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. Based on the Silver Shadow II, the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and Bentley Mulsanne were announced in the autumn of 1980. Heavily revised styling featured a lower waistline, increased glass area and a more modern angular look, while beneath the skin significant improvements had been made to the newcomers' self-levelling rear suspension. Rectangular headlights graced the front of a Rolls-Royce product for the first time and the oft-changed radiator became wider and squatter in both versions. Inside, the Crewe firm's exemplary standards of equipment and finish were maintained, the most noticeable change being the adoption of separate rear seats and the reinstatement of folding picnic tables. The Mulsanne Turbo was introduced in March 1982 at the Geneva Motor Show with the addition of a Garrett turbocharger now allowed the Mulsanne to reach 60mph in just seven seconds, before reaching 217/ kph as a top speed. All this in the comfort, silence and composure that the brand has always offered its customers. This turbocharged V8 evolution was only available from Bentley, setting it apart from its Rolls-Royce sibling with its single naturally aspirated engine.
Purchased on 1st August 1984, from Rolls Royce Division Southend Motor and Aero Company, Essex, this Mulsanne Turbo remained in the family until recent months. staying with its first custodian until their passing it in 2021 and it still shows just two previous keepers. Used sparingly, mainly for family weddings and trips, it has covered just 33, 200 miles today.
The Bentley is distinctively presented in a lovely hue and according to the identification panel on the bulkhead, it's finished in Coral (FTA) Inmont -9510442 with a Cream (5568) Everflex roof, over Magnolia Leather Connolly interior with matching red carpets throughout. A very attractive presentation and it's unlikely that you will see another one.
The accompanying vehicle history file includes all factory handbooks, previous MOTs, handwritten notes, with separate invoices to document ongoing maintenance including basic servicing, parts and others. Most recent attention was in August 2020 at marque specialist, Shadow Motorcars, which included a 24, 000 miles service, new power steering rack, suspension bushes, brake spheres and much more (£4603. 44) along with a fresh MOT in October 2024 (No Advisories).
This wonderful Mulsanne has obviously been loved and cared for all its life and has been an integral part of the family. With the car is a poignant, hand-written note from the family saying good bye. 'It has been used many times by our family for weddings and happy occasions. Hopefully the new owners will cherish and look after this beautiful car.'
