1988 Bentley 8 - Palma Classic Cars

Year: 1988 | Make: Bentley | Model: 8
Transmission: 3-Speed
VIN: SCBZE02B6JCX24494 | Stock: 24494
Exterior: British Racing Green | Interior: Tan
Mileage: 117,300

The Bentley Eight was introduced in 1984 as an ‘entry-level’ model aimed at the younger (35-45) market as competition to the BMW 7-Series and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. The Eight was priced at 49,497 British Pounds- about $90,000 U.S.dollars at the time and $220,000 today (the standard Mulsanne and the Mulsanne Turbo priced at 59,937 and 61,743; the least expensive Rolls-Royce, the Spirit, priced at 63,000 Pounds). The price of the Eight could still have purchased almost two Mercedes 500SEL saloons. Bentley had desired to upgrade the suspension of the Mulsanne Turbo. This brought stiffer spring rates and further damping to give tighter handling to the SZ Series; this actually appeared first on the Eight.

Without knowing each model it is hard to see where Crewe saved anything; it was really a loss-leader to attract more sales. Straight-grain rather that burled walnut wood trim was used; although cloth seats were standard few were delivered as most buyers preferred hides. Other interior deletions included ‘companion mirrors’ and lights in the rear quarter panels and lambswool over-rugs. What one really purchased was a car that ran like the Mulsanne but handled rather better.

This 1988 Eight was purchased new at Carriage House Motors in Connecticut but has been known to us for the past 20 years, and has covered 117,400 well-maintained miles.

Of note:
-updated steering rack (a later modification)
-auxiliary water pump dedicated to the heating
system (a great upgrade)
-alloy wheels with locks
-Bentley ‘Flying B’ Winged mascot and polished
stainless grille vanes (both not standard)
-later Turbo R round headlamps
-replacement radio with remote CD changer
-autodim rearview mirror (upgrade)
-complete original tool kit
-original owners manual set

The fascia and door cap veneers, leather interior, wool headliner and carpets, and the paint and brightwork, are in superb condition.
Our Bentley Turbo Eight was proudly last owned (long-time) by a wonderful Englishman who spared no expense in its care. It has been fully serviced by Palma Automotive and is ready for its new home.

Listen to Audio Description (coming soon)