1988 | Bentley Turbo R

The Bentley Turbo R was a high-performance model produced from 1985 to 1997 with a total of 7,230 built in the 12-year production period. The 'R' stood for 'Roadholding', to set it apart from its predecessor, the Mulsanne and also sported a revised suspension with wider tyres on alloy wheels; a first for a Bentley. The suspension changes, although seemingly subtle, transformed the soft and less than well-controlled ride of the Mulsanne into that of a real performer. This was achieved by increasing the anti-roll bar rates in the front and rear and by increasing the damping. A Panhard rod to anchor the rear suspension was also introduced, reducing side-to-side movement in corners. The Turbo R was sold alongside the Mulsanne Turbo for a short time although the Mulsanne was taken out of production in 1985. For the 1987 model year, the Turbo R received anti-lock brakes and Bosch fuel injection replacing the Solex carburettors.

First owned by W H Smiths for use by the Chairman, Lord Simon Hornby, this special Turbo R was ordered in Vermillion red with Parchment interior but the colour was later changed to black by its second owner, Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees. Gibb bought the car when it was only 15 months old and later had the car painted in black to match his other 'R' that he kept at his home in Miami. Gibb clearly loved the car as he kept it for the next 37 years, storing the car at his UK home, always on trickle charge and keeping it covered inside his heated and dehumidified garage. It is supplied with a V5C registration document, service book and complete book pack as well as promotional documents. With such low mileage and impressive ownership history, especially having belonged to the legendary Barry Gibb, this is an exciting and rare opportunity to own a very special and unique Turbo R. Consigned by Will Penrose.

Lot details
Year: 1988
Make: Bentley
Model: Turbo R
Registration: E171 HPK
Chassis No: SCBZS0TA3JCH23465
Engine No: 63486L410IT/8
Odometer: 33,500


* Owned by Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees

* Low mileage

* Always maintained to a high level