1985 Bentley Eight

The repositioning of the Bentley marque as Rolls-Royce's enthusiast, high-performance partner had begun in 1982 with the introduction of the Bentley Mulsanne Turbo, yet one crucial element of the package remained relatively undeveloped: the chassis. As it happened, the modifications necessary to enable this to be exploited to the full - firmer damping and altered spring rates - debuted in 1984 on the evocatively named yet normally aspirated Bentley Eight. By giving the Bentley Eight a simple mesh grille in vintage Le Mans style, its designers created a distinctive new model, furthering the marque's revival as Rolls-Royce's sporting partner. Conceived as an entry-level Bentley, the normally aspirated Eight was pitched against the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7-Series, yet was more expensive than its German rivals at a little under £50,000 when launched in 1984. The saving of some £5,000 over the price of a standard Mulsanne was achieved by a slight reduction in interior specification - straight-grain walnut rather than the traditional burr, for example - yet the overall effect remained virtually unchanged. Inside it is still luxury with a capital "L' and the big, leather lounge chairs with their every-which-way power adjustment remain a potent statement of this very observed motor vehicle.

This Bentley 8 has benefited full Bentley main dealer service history up to 60,000 miles, at which point it was placed into dry storage for the period from 1999 to 2005. At this point, it was carefully re-commissioned and enjoyed a pampered life covering little mileage. In November 2006, a major service was undertaken at 74,760 miles by a marque specialist.

We are pleased to offer this normally-aspirated model with an indicated mileage of only 78,200. Finished in the pleasing exterior colour of Forest Green with Parchment leather interior, contrasted with Forest Green piping, what exceptional value for money these luxury saloons now represent.

Entered by a private collector, who informs us that the vehicle drives exceptionally well, this model is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, electric seats/mirrors, central locking, Wilton carpets, radio with CD player and alloy wheels with Goodyear Eagle whitewall tyres. This handsome vehicle has also recently benefitted from an oil and fluid service, including anti-freeze change and new battery.

Offered without reserve and a no advisory MOT until August 2014 (correlating the mileage history detailed herein); why not drive home today in an iconic piece of British motoring history?