1996 Bentley Continental R Mulliner

Background:
When it was unveiled at the 1991 Geneva Motor Show, the Bentley Continental R was hailed as a defining moment for the marque. With a body designed and built by Mulliner Park Ward, the car was immediately recognised for its elegant yet purposeful stance, long bonnet and flowing roofline, which cleverly disguised its substantial proportions. At its launch it was the most expensive production car in the world and firmly re-established Bentley as a maker of powerful, exclusive and contemporary grand tourers.

Under the bonnet sat the proven turbocharged 6.75-litre V8, tuned to deliver prodigious performance, coupled with a 4-speed automatic gearbox and electronically adjustable suspension. Despite weighing nearly 2.5 tonnes, the Continental R was capable of remarkable pace while maintaining the refinement, craftsmanship and comfort synonymous with Bentley. With only 544 right-hand drive examples produced, the model remains both rare and desirable today.

The Car:
This example was first registered in 1996 and with only two owners in the last 20 years. Finished in gleaming Silver over a Sandstone interior with a St James Red Top Roll and matching carpets, it presents in a traditional and highly attractive colour scheme that suits the car’s imposing presence.

Throughout its 142,000 recorded miles the Bentley has been used as intended but never neglected, with continuous investment ensuring it has remained in fine order. The service history is extensive and remarkably detailed, documenting expenditure exceeding £130,000, with approximately £14,500 committed in the past two years alone. The comprehensive file charts works carried out during the current ownership and reflects the impressive approach taken to the car’s maintenance.

The condition of the interior remains impressive, with the Sandstone hide retaining its suppleness. The seats are in wonderful condition, having been recently treated and redyed. Externally, having had a bare metal respray to silver paintwork previously red, continues to present well, a testament to the care afforded to the car over the years. Fitted with quad exhaust and side vents which were a rare and costly option when new. The alloys have recently been refurbished and the tyres still retain an abundance of tread.

The cherished registration number C1 RRU will not remain with the vehicle and is not included in the sale.

Fresh to the market, this Continental R is a wonderful piece of British engineering and represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Crewe’s most significant models of the modern era at what is sure to be a very sensible estimate.

*Will come with a fresh 12 months MOT*

Location: Kent

Photos: Professional

Seller: Private