1974 – Bentley T Series 1

French vintage vehicle registration document

“Sold new in France by Franco Britannic – only 1,703 were made!” 

Succeeding the Bentley S Series, the T Series incorporates all the technical innovations introduced by the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, of which it is the perfect twin. It is, however, more understated, with a less ostentatious grille. It nevertheless retains the same level of luxury, comfort and ease.

An iconic model, the Bentley T1 is the first monocoque in the British manufacturer’s history. Powered by a 6.3-litre V8 producing 200 bhp, it features an automatic transmission, power steering and four-wheel disc brakes. It thus combines comfort and performance that were second to none for its time.

Delivered new in 1974 to its first French owner by Franco Britannic, our example has had five owners since it was first registered. Its service history, including numerous invoices, dates back to 2001.

In 2021, it underwent a major service at the Bentley dealership in Malaga, covering a full fluid change, carburetion, transmission, gearbox oil pan seal, the air conditioning, the replacement of the alternator, air conditioning compressor and power steering belts, as well as the water pump, at a cost of over €6,000. The car has covered very few miles since its purchase in 2023, but it has just undergone a service at Atelier 46.

The bodywork is now showing signs of wear; there are chips in the paintwork as well as traces of corrosion on the bodywork and underbody. Inside the cabin, the original upholstery has a delightful patina. The varnish on the woodwork would benefit from a little attention, and a thorough clean would restore the interior to its former glory. Far rarer and more exclusive than a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, connoisseurs of luxury saloons will not be disappointed.