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The Bentleys of the past are far removed, technologically, from their successors. But from the marque's earliest days, Bentleys had that rare capacity to go the distance. On the rough, dusty roads of their time, they had the reserves of power both to outpace and to outlast their rivals.

Today's Continental R, with its beautifully-appointed interior, its supremely capable 553 lb. ft., 385 bhp V8 engine and its sophisticated computer-aided reaction to the driver's inputs, has the quality of long-striding power that distinguished its predecessors. From the outside, the laser-cut stainless steel matrix grille hints at the marque's lineage, giving the motor car's lines a purposeful edge. Inside, sports seats, unique to the Continental R, provide the support and comfort for spirited long-distance driving while the sculpted dual-tone leather steering wheel is another of the cockpit's many tactile pleasures.

The Continental R is a true Grand Tourer, capable of maintaining high average speeds while cocooning four occupants and their luggage in quiet comfort for hundreds of miles at a time. It is a car that rewards and exhilarates the driver without unnecessary physical effort: responsive and finely controlled in traffic, unmatched and magnificent on the open road. A thoroughbred deserving of its green Bentley badge, and a grand tourer to go the distance.

A magnificent blend of elegance and muscularity in the lines on the Continental R, set off by the laser-cut matrix grille and cut-through bumpers.

The dual-colour steering wheel now features a larger diameter rim and sculpted hand grips for improved ergonomics. The new Continental R sports seats with integral seat belts offer improved lateral support and are twin stitched in a curved flute style. The burr walnut veneer pictured here is just one of the many fine wood veneers that may be specified.

The motor car shown is simply one example of the many specifications available from the wide choice of colour combinations and finishes offered by Bentley Motors. The scope is extended even further through the engineers and craftsmen of Mulliner, who are able to undertake special commissions to design and specify a motor car for an individual's driving characteristics and tastes.

Chassis & Sales

1991 Bentley Continental R Coupé Chassis - sold for €30,600 A pre-production example (no. 5), this left-hand drive Continental R was built to US specification and featured in the Geneva Motor Show brochures for the model at its launch in 1992 (brochure copies available). Circa 2000, the car was exported to Australia where the immediately preceding owner purchased it approximately seven years ago. Work carried out during his ownership included overhauling the steering and air conditioning (with a new co... more
Gallery: 2011 Goodwood Revival Sale by Bonhams

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