The Bentley Turbo R Is the Most Important Bentley in Modern History

Along with its predecessor, the Mulsanne Turbo, the Turbo R was the car that revived Bentley. It galvanised interest in the brand and arguably made it desirable enough to attract Volkswagen money. The SZ Series of Bentleys and Rolls-Royces were supremely luxurious, but the Turbo R injected the life that was so needed into the range.
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Sources:
Graham Hull, ‘Inside the Rolls-Royce & Bentley Styling Department 1971 to 2001’ (2014).
Graham Robson, ‘Rolls-Royce and Bentley Volume 4: Silver Spirit to Azure 1980-1998’ (1999).
Jay Leno’s Garage, ‘1989 Bentley Turbo R’, • 1989 Bentley Turbo R -... (2013).
Jonathan Wood, ‘Rolls-Royce & Bentley: Spirit of Excellence’ (2001).
Malcolm Bobbitt, ‘Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit & Silver Spur Bentley, Bentley Mulsanne, Eight, Continental, Brooklands & Azure’ (2000).
Martin Bennett, ‘Rolls-Royce & Bentley: The Crewe Years’ (1999).
Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, ‘Bentley Mulsanne 1980-1987’, www.rrsilverspirit.com/models....
Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, ‘Bentley Mulsanne Turbo’, www.rrsilverspirit.com/models....
Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, ‘Bentley Turbo R LWB’, www.rrsilverspirit.com/models....
Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, ‘Bentley Turbo R’, www.rrsilverspirit.com/models....
The Spirit: Official magazine of the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club SZ Register, Issue 1, drive.google.com/file/d/0B-HK... (2015).
Tyrrell’s Classic Workshop, ‘Bentley T2 and Turbo R - A Fond Farewell to the Big V8’ • Bentley T2 and Turbo R... (2020).
‘Rolls Royce Silver Spirit’ website is referenced by the SZ Owners’ Club.

[@TwinCam]

By popular demand, I have now set up a Patreon page! If you enjoy my videos, then please do consider supporting Twin-Cam with a donation. www.patreon.com/twincam

[@benofbrown]

I can't remember exactly when I watched this video, but it was definitely a significant factor in me now owning a 1996 Turbo R! Just wanted to pop back and let you know, this is a great video and very informative. My one is a SWB model, I've had it since May and it's just wonderful to drive. These really are very special cars indeed.

[@jaicourvoisier341]

Is it pretty reliable?

[@benofbrown]

@@jaicourvoisier341 yes, though it has cost a lot of money so far to keep it in good fettle it's always run well when I've needed it. It's recently been featured in a video on Jay Emm's channel, the video came out towards the end of April if you want to have a look at it there.

[@maddpunx]

SD1 in the background🙂

[@pymslane]

Yes, the S on the gear change is Sports mode for the gearbox. The bulls-eye vent air control "plungers" are commonly referred to as organ stops. Flappy Duchess handles aka Duchess straps. Awesome review Ed, Pearl thanks you.

[@mikeenglish6401]

Hi Ed....... Your best and most professional yet. Your confidence grows and your enthusiasm and depth of knowledge shine through. Well done! Mike

[@TwinCam]

Aww thank you Mike, that's very kind :)

[@DavidHall-ge6nn]

It was a lovely surprise to see you were reviewing a Bentley for this installment. I am not surprised it was an arduous edit, both because of its length and the amount of content it contained. It was worth the effort, in my opinion, because this is, bar none, your best video ever. You should be very proud of your work here, Ed. It's stellar. Moreover, it's still true to you, your personality, your enthusiasm, your diligence in researching your subject, and yes, your sly humor. That slurp of tea followed by a satisfied sigh was absolute genius. Well done!

[@TwinCam]

Thank you David, that's very kind :) It's not 100%, but I'm slowly getting there!

[@pymslane]

Wasn’t he awesome! 🙂

[@billrea66]

Very well done . I own an '89 , the first year exported to the Americas .

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Bill ☺️

[@frothe42]

Absolutely Brilliant video Ed! You explained and showed items I never knew about Bentley and Rolls-Royce of this vintage! I believe this was hand-crafted like the Rolls-Royce, and it shows. Especially when one is paying £150,000+ at that time when it was built and sold. Connelly leather, Wilton carpets, and the most glorious wood dash. Craftsmanship was exceptional, many worked for Bentley and Rolls-Royce for decades. Rolls-Royce was known as a chauffeurs vehicle and Bentley a driver's vehicle. This is an exquisite example of a hand-built luxury vehicle from a bygone era, and each vehicle was built to the buyer's specifications: contrast colour for carpeting, piping trim along the leather seating, simply just exceptional! It makes this vehicle a one-off, a very personalized vehicle built to your specifications. And I love the detailed explanation, this video highlights your knowledge and understanding of this particular Bentley.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks again mate :)

[@frothe42]

@@TwinCam You really did an excellent, thorough job of the history, background and explaining the interior details, some of which I never knew! I learned something new watching your video, it is incentive for me to watch and see what vehicle you will be featuring, facts and your perspective of the vehicle. Of course, I subscribed some time ago, and so glad as I patiently await your next video, the next review. I applaud all the effort you put into this, it definitely shows!

[@stephendangelo1614]

What a first class, very well informed, nicely done video. I have a 1989 Bentley Turbo R and recently just purchased a 1997 Bentley Turbo R. These cars are magnificent pieces of machinery. Very fast and very powerful - if you ever have a chance to drive/own one…please do…you won’t regret it. Find one that has been well taken care of and drive it. Thank you for a wonderful video.

[@derekstocker6661]

I was pleased to see one of these amazing cars near Ryegate a few years ago and was surprised to see it had a BTR number plate, fabulous looking cars.

[@larsenglund4061]

I really enjoy this low-key car video. Much better than loud-mouthed Top Gear etc.

[@michaeltutty1540]

Great video, Ed. This SHOULD be required viewing by the designers and engineers at both BMW and Volkswagen. Both companies need to eliminate the bean counters and get back to building to quality. The corners cut on the new ones would be enough to summon the ghosts of Messrs Rolls, Royce, and Bentley, no doubt to create a brew to rival that of the 3 Witches in The Scottish Play.

[@johnfrei9057]

The styling on this one is confident, restrained, beautiful and impressive without trying too hard. Know what I mean, 2021 Rolls Royce?

[@TwinCam]

I agree that this is a great piece of design, but to be honest I love modern Rolls-Royces! It’s the modern Bentleys that I’m not sure of 🤔

[@TwinCam]

Hi folks. I hope you enjoyed the video. Unfortunately this was one of the more stressful to edit. I seem to be missing considerable amounts of B-roll and some shots from the end of the video, so there was a little more voiceover and a little more repetition of B-roll than I would have liked!

[@Keithj136]

Well Ed i think it's one of your best, the editing, camera work and constant flow of information and opinion are great. #onwardandupward

[@JSDesignHK]

Ed, this is a superb video, and I’d like to thank you for getting the details and facts right. I’m a longtime Rolls-Royce and Bentley guy, have been driving them for forty years, and even took the 2-week course at the old Rolls-Royce School of Instruction, and you are spot on with your information and facts. As always, a beautifully presented, entertaining and informative video, done in your inimitable style.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks again Keith :)

[@TwinCam]

Aww thank you mate, that's very kind :)

[@Dan-hq2js]

You're far too hard on yourself, The presentation is perfection, and even if it hadn't have been so perfect in some videos it's always fine as gives it a touch of your personality and makes it less sterile and more quirky. A balance is good. You presentation here is exemplary!

[@oldcarsnstuff]

Excellent delivery and well presented. Clearly you’ve studied your subject and a good flow of information is proof of that. You’re very natural in your presentation. It’s a 10/10 from me. Thank you.

[@TheVintageApplianceEmporium]

It's just so unutterably handsome!

[@Jammbert9]

Really enjoyed watching that. I've spent a little time with Tim and Pearl and it really is a beauty. Tim has also been trying to convince me to push one of my cars Infront of the camera. After watching this I'm really tempted!

[@pymslane]

It’s a must do 🙂

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate ☺️ I’m sure Tim’s told you that I’m always available 😉

[@subarnosinha8042]

My favourite Bentley, the Bentley I want to own someday. Thankyou for the fantastic review. Cheers!

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate :)

[@kwizikle65]

I would like to have seen you doing a quick road test and your impressions on driving it. I am lucky enough to own a 57 Mulliner Continental which back then had a 4 speed auto. Would love to own one of these at some point. Last of the hand made Bentleys. Also been lucky enough to drive many 4.5 litre 1920's Bentleys - now they really are a great car!

[@TwinCam]

I’d have loved to have a drive. Unfortunately due to my age I cannot insure the cars I drive at the moment. Hopefully sooner rather than later I will, but at the moment I’m unable to.

[@kwizikle65]

@@TwinCam Need a motor traders policy...allows you to drive anything...at any age.

[@-reasoning-]

Beautiful ride! Looking into the markets myself, keep the Turbo R series going 💯

[@march7089]

The uncovered SD1 in the background must be a hint of things to come, I hope so.

[@thebitlot]

PLEASE. I say, PLEASE do a review of the SD1 Twin Cam. That's the car that got me interested in British motorcar history.

[@TwinCam]

I'd love to say yes, but that particular car isn't exactly in the best condition at the moment. I'd love to do an SD1 video, and hopefully that will come sooner rather than later!

[@march7089]

BIT LOT Same bro!

[@march7089]

Twin-Cam No worries Ed, just keep doing what you’re doing :)

[@pymslane]

There’s a very good SD1 being lined up 😉

[@kb9072]

Great review. Loved this car. Lived in Lewisham for many years. A poor area in South East London. Lived on a the high street. Had to park my car around the corner. Had to walk past Ghost Motors (long gone) used Rolls Royce & Bentley dealer. Stopped many a time to gaze at the awesome cars.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate ☺️

[@markscars1069]

A lot of work clearly gone into this. Good effort.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Mark ☺️

[@hughgrection4205]

This is my first time watching this channel and the presenters style is spot on. I have subscribed

[@TwinCam]

Thank you mate, that means a lot :)

[@colmj.cleary6272]

This my first time watching one of your video’s, and as RREC member, I thoroughly enjoyed it... keep up the good work. 👍

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate, that means a lot :)

[@pymslane]

Colm J. Cleary that's good to know, would you like to see RREC do more of this type of thing? I'm a club member too.

[@shankarbalan3813]

Keep it up matey! Truly first class reviews. I will watch all the reviews you come up with. Not least because you show such respect for these beautiful cars of a bygone and certainly more gentlemanly and leisured era. The new world is all very well, but it just doesnt have the same “class”.

[@TwinCam]

Aww thank you mate, that's very kind :)

[@plym1969]

Great video! The USP of your channel is your enthusiasm and knowledge linked to your very varied content! I never expected to see you reviewing a Bentley and I'm really glad you have. What a fantastic car.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks again Phillip, that's very kind :)

[@rogertycholiz2218]

@@TwinCam Once again you are a very professional presenter. I hope you get a TV contract.

[@MattysCars]

The mechanic by mine does discounts for Bentley and Rolls Royce owners. I'd say It's one of the only places you'll see 3 or 4 of these parked next to each other every single day

[@Woollylinnet]

Surely if you can afford a Bentley or Rolls-Royce a discount wouldn't be that much of an incentive?

[@MattysCars]

@@Woollylinnet I think they mainly deal with older rolls royces anyway, which aren't only expensive to buy buy expensive go run and maintain as well. And most mega rich people don't own a 30 year old Bentley 😂

[@pymslane]

Where at Matty?

[@MattysCars]

@@pymslane Liverpool

[@Richard-Bullock]

Oh my goodness gracious me. Flappy duchess handles. Am struggling to stop smirking like a juvenile teenager. Another interesting and entertaining video. Thank you.

[@TwinCam]

Suit you sir. Suit you.

[@stuartplatt2146]

I was going to say 'another superb production' but you have excelled this time. Perhaps it's the Bentley influence? Thank you for taking so much time and care with the research.

[@mrbennetts]

OMG you can talk ! And you know your stuff too. Well done and thank you. 👍

[@TwinCam]

Hahaha thanks Sam :)

[@johnboulton1109]

Fantastic!! Another great video, balanced and informative. Whilst I’ve loved all your BL/MG Rover videos and this one made an interesting alternative!

[@TwinCam]

Thanks John :)

[@ryanhodges7101]

I know most people who own them will never do it but these cars can liquefy the rear tires at will. Thank you for the video! Take care.

[@petepure3387]

Excellent video young man. Keep them coming... Hi from Australia :)

[@desertwindauh]

Your video of the SZ Bentleys just popped up and I found it to be very well done. Thank you.

[@peterriggall8409]

WOW, what a car. Even if it ‘Failed to proceed’ I would be quite happy just to sit in it. Plenty of video material in the background I notice.

[@pymslane]

Gosh, can’t believe that phrase didn’t make the video.

[@Tom-852]

Great Video mate excellent Quality

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate ☺️

[@Tom-852]

Twin-Cam As your only young what insurance company do you use to insure Melvin?

[@TwinCam]

I use Elephant at the moment.

[@Tom-852]

Twin-Cam Is that the one you pay per mile?

[@TwinCam]

No it isn’t. It’s a subsidiary of Admiral.

[@stephenmarkland8316]

Ed that video was great. I don't know what B-roll means but I didn't miss it anyway, what ever it is. You have so much knowledge to give in your video's it must take you ages to research ever review of any classic car. What's more how do you remember it all. Once again Ed . Thanks for the video, your amazing. Oh and yes if you want to review my car its a Ford Galaxy 2013 dual clutch 7 seater. Its not a me car but I have 6 grandkids so it serves it's purpose :) What's my dream car.? Aston Martin DB5. I fell in love with this car at a young age and still want it now. I've never seen one in real life, only on the tv screen. I'm not a fan of sports cars. this is the only one that does it for me. So if you do a review on the Aston DB 5 then give me a shout. :) Take care Ed. Thanks . Steve.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks again Steve :)

[@loveisall5520]

PS--auto headlamps came in, in our American luxury cars, in the early sixties. GM had the first automatic dimmer, the Autronic Eye, in the mid fifties. Nice video!

[@philnewstead5388]

This is one of my favourite modern era Bentleys and I was lucky enough to have a friend who let me have a drive his back in the day. Rolls Royce had been raiding the BL parts bin for years for minor components and you will find some of their switchgear has BL internals. They were not the only premium brad to do so either Aston Martin, Lotus Morgan and TVR all used BL components over the years. As you say the colour really does the car justice and the front end looks much cleaner and less bulky than the Rolls with the four headlamps and the body colour grille and surround. Keep up the good work.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Phil ☺️ 95% of premium manufacturers did, because it would cost them an arm and a leg to engineer the little components. Same story with headlamps on a lot of cars. The Jag XJ220 and Lambo Diablo spring to mind.

[@derekstocker6661]

I am sure we can consider this one sold then! Fantastic review of a fabulous car, very well done, these cars STILL look wonderful on the road and stand out against almost any of the new Bentley's, still draw appreciating looks and great comments when filling up. The driving experience has to be classed as absolute magic, from driving position and performance. Thanks for a great overview of these superb cars, only thing to watch out for is head gaskets usually around 60k miles or so and some electrics can be an expensive pain in the wallet. Thanks for this, love it.

[@martinboulden3540]

Fabulous video and full of accurate information. Good review.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Martin! That means a lot :)

[@selwyntracey3871]

Great car. Great review. Your style is refreshing and evolving nicely. Good work.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Selwyn ☺️ I’m still working it all out, but I’m slowly getting there!

[@markcreed9745]

Excellent review. Informative and interesting. Your relaxed presenting style certainly suited the car :)

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Mark ☺️

[@mattc2094]

Brilliant review! Love your presentation style... interesting and informative (I had to look up the word ‘pantograph’ 😛) Didn’t even notice any editing errors. I’m sure your channel will grow large 👌🏼 keep up the great work, glad to subscribe

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Matt :)

[@darrenmartin4014]

Love the detail you provide Ed, great video as ever

[@TwinCam]

Thank you Darren ☺️

[@bradfordbarrettluckotheIrish]

You do an outstanding job, terrific knowledge

[@rayaspo4893]

Another quality and informative video Twin-Cam. Keep up the good work buddy.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Pete :)

[@matthewrarig6760]

Excellent video! I can really tell you did your homework on this! Enjoyed the whole thing. A most beautiful car she is! Keep up the great work!! :)

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Matthew :)

[@petergouldbourn2312]

I love your videos twin cam. You proving yourself to be a really good journalist with an encyclopaedic knowledge of his field. Well done. Pete 🇬🇧

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Pete :)

[@joaofarinha7953]

Another great review mate 👍 keep them coming 😉

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Joao :)

[@mikelewis8037]

I have a 1989 Turbo R. Best driving car ever for me.

[@RoaldvdM]

Congratulations Ed, i consider this one of your best videos. I will never own a Bentley (I am more into Mercedes) but to get acquainted with the Turbo R was a pleasure.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Roald ☺️

[@Bates.Eral1]

good video again mate i keep up with liking ur vids !!!!! id love to see u driving melvin round a and b roads 👍

[@richardmahoney9415]

Great video even though I see u said U lost b roll shots but loved it and loved these cars I just found your channel and I’m loving it u gained a subscriber so cool to see cars from across the pond we didn’t get here not this car specially some of the Ford’s and vauxhaul

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Richard :) Hope you enjoy my channel!

[@timwingham8952]

Great video. Lovely car. I did laugh when amongst all the opulence and luxury the glove box door came crashing down and clattered to a halt! Keep doing the videos please. So good.

[@TwinCam]

Haha thanks mate ☺️

[@martinannand9966]

The S on the s. hift is of course sport not snow, however there is a snow mode turned on by one of the small press buttons on the central panel with a frost emblem. When pressed the transmission reduces pressure on the drive wheels to help prevent spin on icy surfaces

[@pymslane]

Martin Annand but not on a Turbo R from 1996 onwards. It remained on Brooklands.

[@grayfool]

Very nice Ed. That is a proper luxury car. Fabulous materials put together beautifully. Today, manufacturers just stuff cars full of toys. Apparently there are some relatively simple modifications that can be carried out to the suspension that make this series of cars actually handle quite well. It was Iain Tyrell who mentioned this in one of his videos a few weeks ago. The example you reviewed looks stunning. Excellent video, thank you very much.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate. The standard SY and SZ cars were known for their questionable handling, but the Turbo R was heavily modified so it could handle relatively well. That was a big part of what made it a Bentley, as it had to be true to the gentlemen racer philosophy that had been lacking for many years.

[@grayfool]

@@TwinCam It's certainly a hell of a car. Iain was saying it could be improved even more. The mods cut down the roll a lot.

[@pymslane]

No need to change the suspension on the Turbo R. The earlier SY series cars were the ones to benefit from a Harvey Bailey handling kit.

[@neilpickup237]

Rolls Royce and Bentley's from that era were still owned by quite a few people who might employ a Chauffeur who in addition to driving duties might have been expected to do general maintenance account the house and garden as well as routine maintenance to the car. RRB provided the unusually extensive manual for that purpose.

[@perfectmurder4108]

Another excellent video and lovely motor.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks ☺️

[@pymslane]

Perhaps your Silver Spirit might make an appearance?

[@perfectmurder4108]

Would be an interesting comparison 👍

[@nickbitten6037]

Nice video there. Had me looking at Bentleys on Ebay. If i was not out of work at present i would be tempted.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Nick ☺️

[@robertngreen6]

What an informative, in depth video, really interesting! I was thinking how at home you looked in the rear seat (ready to he chauffeured somewhere) but that is because of the Metro seat belts of course!

[@TwinCam]

Thanks again Robert ☺️

[@garyabbondanza2386]

Another great video! Keep up the good work. Maybe you can do a vid of a big Healey? Or the famous three wheeler? Would love to see something like that! Good luck with your endeavors! Oh, you know the Morgan, LOL.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Gary! I’d love to!

[@984francis]

It has what all modern RR and Bentley lacks, class.

[@Wheels-Wheels-Wheels]

Well said. These cars, I reckon, offer an experience unavailable anywhere else for the money that they can be purchased for today.

[@CortinasAndClassics]

Flappy duchess handles 🤣🤣🤣 I nearly spat my tea out. So funny. Great review on this car it's gorgeous.

[@777jones]

Impressive. You show a lot of skills in creating this video. Most importantly, your writing is good and your on camera presence measures up. Subscribed

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate, that's very kind :) I hope you enjoy my videos, and some of my newer stuff is a bit more professional!

[@samsdadalways888]

Great video 😁

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate ☺️

[@bcfairlie1]

Excellent review

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Brent ☺️

[@steves4639]

wow, such a well spoken young man...much more in-depth and researched than what is usually seen from someone his age group. anyway, super enjoyable vid and a great tour of a significant car. besides significant as a type, this example just looks great too...I'm sure its awesome to, besides a great drive, just sit in and absorb the atmosphere. the only thing, and its my complaint for many cars of this era, is the steering wheel that looks like it came out of a v6 Mustang...not sure how technical a job it would be, but I'd sure look for something more appropriately bespoke.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Steve ☺️ I feel the same - though the very flat, black steering wheels were a feature of the 90s!

[@pymslane]

The steering wheel is not a standard fitment, it’s made by Myrtle and finished in Walnut. The central airbag system remains covered in black leather, though any other colour of leather could have been specified originally.

[@markrl75]

The only thing missing from that beautifully crafted traditional old beauty is a thatched roof. They definitely don't make them like that anymore.

[@Mr2pint]

love the grey and Burwood mixture interior, I would have kept the stereo period correct, at least its hidden...

[@gianfi63]

I agree.. when he opened the cover, I thought "ouch, that's brash for a RR-B car"

[@pymslane]

Unfortunately a previous owner had chosen the stereo, a more period looking unit will be fitted one day.

[@TwinCam]

One of those mad expensive Blaupunkt units I hope Tim!

[@pymslane]

@@byteme9718 Yeah, that is better, but still slightly out of place, less is certainly more (money) when it comes to the SQR 46!

[@donaldshaw2820]

Brilliant young man!

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Donald 🙂

[@cameronshield6493]

Hey Ed, nice work bud, my kind of car...

[@546268]

liking the new style, works very well. I have a real lust to own a turbo R, maybe one day!

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Andrew, I’m still working everything out, but I’m slowly getting there!

[@greerbox]

Aww Ed. A master class in presentation. The Turbo R was my favourite of the marque. I always considered the Bentley as a gentleman’s car whereas the RR a bit brash. I believe you certainly have a career in motoring journalism well done mate (you should have slurped your tea from a bone china cup, not a (ugh) mug!! 😂🤪 David

[@TwinCam]

Thanks as ever David 🙂

[@jh565bb]

Nice video, that's a great car.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate ☺️

[@paullacey2999]

These are lovely old cars,absolutely gorgeous.OK a money pit if they go wrong but what a way to travel....

[@984francis]

James Bond had one. That apart, it's by FAR the finest looking Bentley in modern times. Everything since has been a bling special (RR too).

[@chrislockey7706]

Beautiful car

[@Vince_uk]

Great channel I have subscribed.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks!

[@neilwalsh4058]

Really informative and well researched video. I'd always promised myself a Turbo R and a few years ago I was able to afford one so I went to view a couple. I was driving a W140 S500 at the time. Both were very good examples, full history, low mileage and looked beautiful. The owners offered me a test drive and sadly that's where my interest ended. I found neither enjoyable to drive, didn't feel in full control and the ride quality wasn't in the same universe as my Mercedes S Class of the same age which had covered double the mileage of both. This really showed up the 1960's underpinnings of the Bentley. The 20 year wood and leather hadn't stood up half as well as its German counterpart either. Both were 6 times what I'd paid for my S500 a year earlier and frankly I wouldn't have swapped my Mercedes for both of them. Yes they appeal to some people, sadly not me anymore. Maybe I was unlucky with the two I looked at, but I was disappointed as I'd always really fancied owning one. Should I give them another chance or consign them to the 'not as expected' box?

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Neil ☺️ I love these, but I’d rather an S-Class!

[@neilwalsh4058]

@@TwinCam Drive a W140, preferably a S420 or S500 so you get the 32v V8 engine. You'll not look at a Bentley twice after trying the best.

[@paulwilfridhunt]

Well done

[@TwinCam]

Thanks Paul :)

[@stevenbrown8857]

If i had the money, which I certainly don't ... but the Bentley Continental is the car I'd have ... which you're right, if not for this car, may never have existed, and that would have been a shame.

[@co1581]

nice rover sd1 in the background

[@wasserglatte3696]

So schön vorgetragen.

[@TwinCam]

Thank you! :)

[@judethaddaeus9742]

I wonder if the front passenger compartment was somewhat cramped because the SZ was designed primarily to be a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce (As you said, 97% of the company’s production at the time the SZ was designed were the Rolls versions) that prioritised rear passenger accommodation over the comforts of “the help” in the front. And this engineered-in aspect simply translated to the more driver-focused Bentley because the company couldn’t afford to distinguish the two in terms of body structure.

[@HerrBjork]

0:05 When that KZbin Money(TM) comes rolling in

[@jetsons101]

Does the license plate number indicate the weight of the car??? 40 tons. The wood on the dash reflects like a mirror. That really is a great looking car, almost timeless.... Great video

[@promerops]

Excellent video, thanks. The R-Type and S-Type Bentleys of the 50s and 60s, although just (just?) Rollers under the skin, did have a certain style - think Jason King (for those who are old enough to remember that TV series). A better alternative to the badge engineered Bentleys of yore might have been the various marks of Bristols, in terms of engineering thoroughness, driveability and, most certainly, exclusiveness.

[@TwinCam]

Thanks mate :)

[@philhawley1219]

Yes, we do remember Jason King. So did that bloke in the gents bogs at Gloucester bus station!

[@promerops]

@@philhawley1219 Gents' bogs - happy hunting ground.

[@pymslane]

Also, the slurp worked.....ahhhhhhhh :)

[@Charlie-B-Barkin]

Good looking car still

[@timebandit71]

I'm getting one before I die!!

[@pymslane]

Do it!!!!

[@rrshadow2]

The SZ series is the Best! I had a poverty spec Bentley Eight and a RR Silver Spur

[@chesswizard31]

To be completely honest I didn't think a Bentley or RR came in a poverty spec!

[@TwinCam]

Well, I suppose everything is relative 😉😂

[@pymslane]

Alexander Eagle Bentley Eight was specifically launched in 1984 to appeal to certain buyers at a price point to move them out of BMW 7-Series or Mercedes-Benz S-Class. At the time priced below the psychological £50,000 barrier.

[@lablackzed]

Love Bentley's.

[@Tom-852]

First Nice motor!

[@michaelperrin2531]

I believe that these Bentley's were firstly built for it's high profile passengers in mind, only lately has the driver taken center stage.

[@guyemmott4009]

Next exciting episode on the SDI Vitesse in the background??? 🤗

[@TwinCam]

Unfortunately this one isn’t in the best condition at the moment, but I’d love to do an SD1 video soon. It’s a fascinating car.

[@curmudgeon1933]

18:30. Handbook is not for the owner, It's for the chauffeur...that also accounts for the slightly cramped front seats, compared to the rear seat.

[@marcel5472]

17:05 And you have your window controls down here on the door … and of course on the driver’s side you have controls for all 4 windows and they are all completely unmarked because……why not 😂

[@terrificspokesman7416]

Wasnt this gearbox the same one that we found in the Opel/Vauxhall Omega Auto an the Vectra and some old Jaguars

[@TwinCam]

Most probably.