1989 Bentley Turbo R

1989 Bentley Turbo R – A Classic, a Milestone and a Sound Place to Put Your Money

The Bentley Turbo R is widely regarded as the model that helped save the Bentley marque.

During the 1980s, Rolls-Royce stood as the undisputed flagship of the company, while Bentley was gradually fading into its shadow. The engineers in Crewe decided to do something radical — and the result was the Turbo R.

A car that not only revived the Bentley name, but also set a new standard for what a British luxury motor car could be: powerful, precise and elegant, all at once. Without the Turbo R, Bentley might never have become the marque we know today.

Exterior: Windsor Blue

Interior: Tan hide with Dark Blue hide piping

This 1989 example represents exactly what makes the Turbo R so compelling: a historic icon, a deeply satisfying driving experience and, at the same time, a potentially sound place to allocate capital in a model that continues to gain recognition among collectors.

Engine and Driving Characteristics

Beneath the bonnet sits Bentley’s legendary 6.75-litre turbocharged V8, renowned for its immense torque and remarkable durability.

The Turbo R was developed as a more driver-focused alternative to Rolls-Royce and therefore received a significantly more sporting chassis setup, including firmer damping, upgraded suspension, more direct steering and larger anti-roll bars.

The result is a car that performs far beyond what many expect — and which, in real-world driving, can still compare remarkably well with far more modern luxury and GT cars when it comes to effortless power and long-distance comfort.

The sophisticated hydraulic ride-height and damping system was highly advanced for its time. It requires proper attention and maintenance, but the system is well documented and entirely serviceable when correctly cared for.

A Unique and Documented History

The car was delivered new to a prominent figure within the aviation industry, connected to a major airline that collaborated with Bentley — an exclusive beginning that adds an extra layer of historical interest to the car’s story.

It then passed through eight documented owners, all of whom contributed to preserving the car to a high standard.

In 2014, it was acquired by classic car specialist Charles Schmitt & Co, before later finding its way to Mocon — a company involved with rare automobiles and motorsport.

During this period, a number of important technical improvements were carried out, including work to the hydraulic lines, an overhaul of the braking system, a replacement steering rack, new spark plugs, and servicing of both the engine and transmission.

The current owner has continued this approach to maintenance. The car will be delivered with a fresh Norwegian roadworthiness inspection (EU control), new rear dampers — a well-known and important item on the Turbo R — together with several smaller improvements that prepare it for many more years on the road.

More recently, the car has also received an oil service, a replacement alternator and improvements to the electrical wiring.

A Model Gaining Recognition

The Turbo R has already begun to appreciate internationally, and examples with strong history, proper maintenance and documented care are generally the cars best positioned to attract future collector interest.

This is one of them.

For the Enthusiast – Not Necessarily a Daily Driver

The Turbo R comes from an era when mechanical systems were sophisticated, robust and designed to be maintained with care.

Parts availability is good, and costs are often more reasonable than many people expect. However, as a daily driver, running costs can become significant. This is a car best enjoyed with consideration and enthusiasm — not treated merely as a commuting tool.

For the right owner, however, it delivers a driving experience that few classic luxury cars can match.

Summary

A remarkably well-preserved Bentley Turbo R with a history that sets it apart, extensive technical attention and the kind of pedigree collectors appreciate.

This is not merely a luxurious classic. It is a genuine piece of automotive history — and a compelling opportunity to acquire a model that, for many, represents the very rebirth of Bentley.

Known Faults

In the interest of complete transparency, the following known faults should be noted:

The passenger-side window operates intermittently.

The fuel gauge has a mind of its own.

Neither point detracts from the overall impression of the car, but they are mentioned openly so that the next owner knows exactly what to expect.

A true British aristocrat with soul — powerful, dignified and unmistakably Bentley.