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| Lot number | 8 |
|---|---|
| Hammer value | £3600 |
| Description | Bentley T1 |
| Registration | YUY 246G |
| Year | 1969 |
| Colour | Black |
| Engine size | 6,230 cc |
| Chassis No. | SBH4541 |
| Engine No. | 4541 |
History
The Bentley S3 and Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud are magnificent cars but there is no doubt that by 1965 these separate chassis behemoths had become something of an anachronism. The launch of the relatively compact Silver Shadow and Bentley T-Type put this situation to rights, using an all new monocoque design with a much lower roof line, self-levelling independent suspension, dual-circuit servo disc brakes all round, and a 4 speed automatic gearbox. Luxury never goes out of style, however, and the cars were as sumptuous as ever inside with acres of walnut, Wilton and leather and electric seats and windows as standard.
Although the cars are more or less identical, the Bentley T looks more dynamic than the Shadow because the radiator is lower and smoother with a more streamlined shape. Otherwise it is only the badging on wheel covers, boot lid and gauges that sets the cars apart – although the Bentley is far more exclusive as only 1,703 saloons were made compared to over ten times that number of Shadows. Replaced in 1977 by the T2, the T-Type is now more commonly referred to as the T1.
First registered in January 1969 and looking particularly classy in black, this T1 has been owned by the current vendor since 1984. Always garaged and always MOTd each year, it has been used regularly but sparingly, covering only 5,000 miles in those 23 years. During this time it is said to have been a paragon of reliability, never failing to start promptly no matter how long it is left idle.
Last year it was treated to a full braking system overhaul including new discs, calipers, master cylinder and pipework. It also benefits from a full stainless steel exhaust system and a fresh MOT and is said to drive beautifully. The history file records a speedo change at 45,000 miles which, added to the 27,000 now on the clock, gives a total mileage covered of 72,000. With the Bentley marque now in the ascendant once again, this handsome car, so much rarer and more subtle than a Roller, will surely prove a good investment at the guide price suggested today.