1996 Bentley Brooklands Saloon

The renaissance of the Bentley brand started with the Mulsanne of 1980. It was named after the famous straight at Le Mans - the scene of five classic Bentley victories in the vintage years. In 1992, the Mulsanne (and Bentley Eight) were replaced by the Brooklands that, continuing the motorsport theme, took its title from the awesome banked British circuit that also saw many a Bentley triumph prior to WWII. The newcomer was intended as a more affordable alternative to the mighty Turbo R, and featured basically the same overall styling, sporting underpinnings and well-proven 6.75-litre V8 engine; the obvious difference being that it was initially normally aspirated.

The exterior featured Bentley's classic waterfall radiator grille, dual headlight and chromed 'B' pillars, while the interior cosseted its occupants with the expected level of leather, wood trim and deep pile Wilton carpets. The model benefited from micro-computer technology controlling such functions as its air suspension, instrument displays and air-conditioning. Some 1,380 Bentley Brooklands were produced by the time the model gave way to the Arnage in 1998.

Finished in Brooklands Green with contrasting parchment hide interior with green piping this car is a lesson in just how attractive these later generation Bentley cars were when new. We are informed by the vendor that the doors hang just as they did when the car rolled off the production line. Body panels are straight and dent free, while the superb paintwork shows no signs of corrosion and has a deep mirror like finish throughout.

The V8 engine is reported to fire up immediately and soon settles down to an even idle. Putting the gear selector into drive, the take up is immediate but free of snatching. Once on the move, up changes are smooth and quick and it's the same when the auto boxes drops down the cogs. Steering is light but has a good feel to make it easy to negotiate the narrowest streets, while the ride is supple and soaks up the bumps easily, although a big car cornering is reported to be 'first class'. This Bentley is totally standard and just as it left the factory meaning this is a properly sorted example.

The vendor informs us that there are no ominous noises emanating from the engine, gearbox or back axle, a sign that this car has been looked after all of its life. Open the door and you'll be amazed by the condition of this Bentleys interior, this is a real gentleman's interior with lashings of leather and wood that shouts quality. The wood is in beautiful condition, as are the seat faces and door cards. The carpet is also in very fine order, all switches and gauges are reported to work perfectly.

With only 48000 warranted miles from new, this cars service history also offers confidence. It has main dealer service history for around two thirds of its life, while more recently it was cared for by an independent Bentley/Rolls Royce specialist in Lancashire, we are informed that £4000 has recently been spent on an annual service, new suspension spheres and brake system overhaul and new Avon Tyres all round.This is a proper old school luxury saloon car and is a great example offering a huge amount of car for Ford Mondeo money, perfect for impressing the neighbours or a day of self-indulgence at Ascot.