Bentley Turbo R 1996 - World Of Classic Cars -

Bentley Turbo R 1996

Based on the Mulsanne chassis, the Bentley Turbo R was built to be a high performance car. Like its predecessor this Bentley had a turbo charged engine, however it was highly tuned in comparison to the Mulsanne. With Bosch fuel injection to increase torque levels, uprated suspension, anti-roll bars and superior dampers, the Bentley Turbo was surprisingly nimble in the bends for a car of its size. Using a 6750cc V8 capable of 135mph the Bentley Turbo R was a real performer in a straight line too. Rave reviews in the press helped dealers move the Turbo R in relatively substantial numbers - one report by Motor Trend described it as "The first Bentley in decades deserving of the famous name".

Bentley Turbo R 1996

Released in 1985 the Turbo R was a clear indication that the manufacturer intended to be at the leading edge of the fashionable sports car market. Sales were high enough for production of the Mulsanne to cease, despite the initial intention being for both cars to be produced in alongside. Indeed the Turbo R went on to be one of the best-ever selling cars that either Rolls-Royce or Bentley had built. A slight face-lift of the Turbo went ahead in 1989, with the most noticeable changes being the replacement of the two large square front head-lamps with quad round head-lamps giving the car a more sporty and individual look. The Bentley Turbo RT eventually replaced it in 1997, by then a total of 7,230 Turbo R's had been sold.