Beschreibung:

1997 BENTLEY TURBO R 400 FOUR DOOR SALOON Registration No. P169 GPG Chassis No. SCBZP23C2 VCH 60222 Engine No. 87160L410M/T1T/S Brooklands green with magnolia interior Engine: V8, two pushrod operated overhead valves per cylinder, single Garrett AiResearch turbocharger with intercooler, Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection, 6,750cc, 400bhp at 3,800rpm; Gearbox: four speed electronic automatic; Suspension: independent front with coil springs and anti-roll bar and independent rear with coil springs and automatic levelling; Brakes: four wheel discs with ABS. Right hand drive. The goal of the Rolls-Royce company to revive the Bentley name that was embarked upon in the early 1980's proved very successful. The addition of a Garrett turbocharger to the Mulsanne model of 1982 is generally regarded as one of the strongest catalysts to this revival, as it gave the Bentley the increased performance that was associated with the name and the sporting connotations were consistent with its fine racing pedigree. When that performance was matched by a suitable handling package in the early Turbo R as described in Lot 10, the reviews were very favourable and in line with the company's progressive development, over the next decade it was continually improved. By 1997, when this example was built the Turbo had evolved beyond all recognition. A complete cosmetic update in 1996 had seen the introduction of new higher bumpers integrated with the front spoiler and rear valance, front quarter lights had been replaced by a new style of side mirror, a lower radiator shell fitted, new Continental R type five spoke wheels were added and the spare wheel was brought inboard, all of which improved the external appearance. This level of detail was continued to the interior which now received an electrically adjustable steering wheel to improve access for the driver, new mirrors were linked into the programmable memory system, and a new central console was added for the rear passengers allowing them controls for the air conditioning. The Turbo R 400, was one of just six cars specially commissioned by Weybridge Automobiles, which had the enhanced performance of the Continental T, with the 400 bhp engine, and also featured a revised interior. Externally the 400 could be identified by the flared wheel arches, vented grilles behind the front wheels and large barrel exhaust confirming its sporting intentions. This car was purchased new by Sir Elton John and first registered in June 1997. It was supplied as it is today in the most appropriate sporting colour, Brooklands green, and has colour coded bumpers and radiator grille. The sumptuous interior is furnished in magnolia leather to the seats and door trims and carpets match the bodywork in dark green. For the driver the dash fascia and steering wheel are covered in dark green leather and the instruments are separately mounted and have chrome rims, the sporting feel is completed by the red starter button to the extreme right of the panel. To the date of inspection the mileage was recorded as a little under 20,000 from new, during this time it has been maintained by Weybridge Automobiles. It should be noted that the car was involved in a small incident with a motorcycle a few years ago, when Elton himself was in the car. However the Bentley was subsequently repaired to the highest standard in keeping with the quality of all the cars, and has continued to be used as the current prime transport in the collection. The most modern Bentley in the collection offered for sale, it is currently road taxed and has a new MoT certificate. Of all the cars in the collection this Bentley has seen the most extensive use in the UK recently. The most prominent occasion in which this car featured occurred in 1998 when it was used to transport Elton John to Buckingham Palace for his Investiture, February 24th, 1998. Other notable events where it was used include The Ivor Novello Awards Ceremony 1998, the opening of Sir E