The world ’ s oldest Bentley T-Series , a standard saloon in Shell Grey , has returned to Crewe after 59 years . Sensitively recommissioned and retaining much of its original componentry and running gear , it takes its place in the Bentley Heritage Collection of road- and race-cars that together describe all 105 years of Bentley ’ s history .
T-Series chassis number SBH1001 was used as a company trials car and featured in the original press coverage following the model launch at the 1965 Paris Salon de l ’ Auto . When found under a cover in storage , the car had not run for decades and was missing several key areas – including its entire interior . The car ’ s significance as the first T-Series – or equivalent Rolls Royce Silver Shadow - off the production line prompted the decision to recommission it , preserving as much of the original car as possible .
Mike Sayer , Head of the Bentley Heritage Collection , explains :
“ The T-Series is one of the final two pieces of the puzzle to complete our rejuvenated Heritage Collection . Our Chief Communications Officer , Wayne Bruce and I quite literally found it under a tarpaulin in the back of a warehouse , and given it was the first-of-line chassis we knew we had to save it . Together with our T-Series
PORTFOLIO MAGAZINE 45