Bentley Eight 1987

Description:

In Brief:

• Bodywork restoration and overall recommissioning project
• Purchased by The Vendor from our Summer Classic Car Auction in 2011
• Bodywork pre flatted
• Comes with old MOT’s, invoices and original Bentley Eight Handbook

On the Surface: This 1987 Bentley Eight presents a unique opportunity for a restoration . Currently, the vehicle is in need of bodywork restoration and overall recommissioning. Whilst some prep has been completed, the car remains unfinished, with the paintwork incomplete. Unfortunately, there is some damage on the nearside, sustained from a mishap on the vendor’s driveway, although it has not been involved in any insurance claim.

Maintenance & History: The vendor purchased this Bentley Eight from our Summer Classic Car Auction in 2011 with the intention of restoring it. Shortly after acquiring the vehicle, it was taken to a repair center for restoration work. However, progress stalled due to unfulfilled promises by the repair center. Frustrated, the vendor retrieved the car, although the center offered to flat and spray the bodywork, which was only partially completed. The car has remained in its current state since then. The sale includes a collection of paperwork and history, featuring the original ‘Bentley Eight’ handbook, photographs of the car’s condition at the time of purchase, old MOT certificates, and invoices totaling just over £4,000.

Despite its need for restoration, the Bentley Eight has been carefully stored undercover either in the repair shop or at the vendor’s home since its purchase in 2011. The vendor has regularly started the car, run it up to temperature, and occasionally driven it around the large area in front of his property.

The Model: The Bentley Eight was introduced as the brand’s “entry-level” model from 1984 until 1992. It was distinguished by its wire-mesh grille radiator, as opposed to the vertical slats seen on the similar Mulsanne, and was offered with slightly less equipment. These differences enabled Bentley to price the Eight below the £50,000 mark at its introduction, making it £6,000 less than the Mulsanne. Its popularity led to expanded sales beyond the UK, reaching Europe and the United States.

Sale Insight: This Bentley Eight is an appealing project car, offering the potential to restore a classic luxury vehicle to its former glory. It comes with some valuable extras, including a replacement rear screen, rear rubber screen seals, and sill trims to help get it back to standard.