Beschreibung:

This vehicle was specially commissioned by Bentley Motors Limited and prepared by H J Mulliner, Park Ward to an exceptionally high, unique specification. It is believed to be the only factory-prepared Continental utilising the longer ‘R’ chassis but built almost entirely to the superior ’T’ specification, including the 420bhp turbo-charged engine, lowered, wide track suspension and 18”-diameter, five-spoke wheels. Accompanying build documentation lists several optional extras fitted that include a second telephone in the rear armrest, ‘bright’ radiator shell, wrap-over veneered waist rails and walnut gear knob. Special features incorporated by MPW include chromed headlamp surrounds, front wing vents, chromed wing mirrors, special leather-trimmed steering wheel, specially designed seats, full satellite navigation system including twin television/video screens, chromed instrument bezels, electric rear window blind and Bentley embossed headrests. The finish is Ascot Green with sand hide/spruce hide interior. The vehicle was originally registered ’20 TU’ on 24th February 1998 by the factory and retained by Bentley Motors until January 1999, being used by the Chief Executive, Tony Gott. It was one of the principal show cars displayed at Le Mans during the launch of the new Arnage model in April 1998. Acquired by the present owner in July 2001, the car took part in the R-REC Tour of Malaysia in October that same year and in April 2002 participated in the R-REC Golden Jubilee Celebrations at Windsor Castle. In October 2003 it was involved with ‘The Jewel that is Jordan Rally’ and was chosen as a special exhibit presented to the Jordanian Royal Family. While the car was in Malaysia it developed an overheating problem, the cause of which was subsequently diagnosed as failed cylinder head gaskets. Undertaken in February 2002 by renowned Rolls-Royce and Bentley specialists P & A Wood, the ensuing comprehensive engine rebuild included replacing four cylinder liners and resurfacing the cylinder heads. A subsequent major service carried out by P & A Wood in October 2003 at 49,713 miles included fitting a new gearbox, overhauling the braking system, replacing both rear gas struts and fitting four new tyres and a battery. The car comes with full service history, initially at the factory and latterly with P & A Wood, whose detailed invoices for the aforementioned work totalling £18,523 are available for inspection. The vendor advises us that the vehicle, which is presented in excellent condition in every department, has covered very few miles since the Jordan trip in October 2003 and the arrival of his Continental GT in February 2004. Well known in R-REC circles, it is offered with road fund licence to January 2005, MoT to September 2004 and Swansea V5 registration document. A unique opportunity to acquire a bespoke Bentley combining the spaciousness of the longer-wheelbase Continental R with the exhilarating performance of the Continental T at a fraction of the latter’s 1998 price of £233,335.