The 1987 Bentley Turbo R represents a defining chapter in Bentley’s illustrious history, marking the return of genuine high-performance motoring to the legendary British marque.

Introduced in 1985, the Turbo R transformed Bentley’s image from that of a traditional luxury motor car manufacturer into a producer of powerful, sporting grand tourers. Combining unmistakable British elegance with formidable performance, the Turbo R quickly established itself as one of the most desirable luxury saloons of its era.

Beneath its imposing bonnet lies Bentley’s renowned 6.75-litre turbocharged V8 engine, delivering immense torque and effortless acceleration through a smooth three-speed automatic transmission. Unlike its predecessor, the Mulsanne Turbo, the Turbo R benefited from significantly revised suspension, uprated anti-roll bars and wider tyres, providing substantially improved handling and road-holding capabilities. The result was a remarkable combination of sporting performance, refinement and comfort, earning the Turbo R a reputation as a luxury saloon with genuine driver appeal.

Today, the Bentley Turbo R stands as an increasingly appreciated modern classic, offering an extraordinary amount of craftsmanship, character and road presence. Its traditional hand-finished interior, generous use of polished timber, sumptuous leather upholstery and commanding proportions reflect an era when Bentley motor cars were built with little compromise. For enthusiasts seeking the prestige of a classic Bentley combined with impressive performance and everyday usability, the 1987 Turbo R remains a particularly compelling proposition.

• FUEL TYPE: Petrol

A magnificent example of British luxury motoring, combining traditional Bentley craftsmanship, effortless V8 performance and an unmistakable presence on the road.

This particular 1987 Bentley Turbo R is a New Zealand-new example, having enjoyed the care of just three owners over the past 31 years. Presented in very nice condition throughout, it represents an opportunity to acquire one of Bentley’s most significant modern classics, a motor car that helped redefine the marque’s sporting credentials during the 1980s.

When introduced in 1985, the Turbo R marked an important turning point for Bentley. Unlike its more comfort-orientated predecessors, the Turbo R was engineered to deliver genuine sporting performance without compromising the refinement and luxury for which the marque was renowned. The letter ‘R’ stood for Roadholding, reflecting the substantial improvements made to the suspension, steering and handling characteristics. Combined with its formidable turbocharged V8 engine, the result was a luxury saloon capable of covering considerable distances with remarkable ease and authority.

Vehicle Highlights & Specifications

• NZ NEW – Originally supplied new in New Zealand.
• Ownership History – Only three owners over the past 31 years.
• Engine – Bentley’s renowned 6.75-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine.
• Transmission – Three-speed automatic transmission.
• Drivetrain – Rear-wheel drive.
• Front Suspension – Independent suspension with wishbones and coil springs.
• Rear Suspension – Independent suspension with semi-trailing arms and self-levelling assistance.
• Steering – Power-assisted steering.
• Braking System – Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes.
• Interior Upholstery – Luxurious red Connolly leather upholstery.
• Interior Trim – Beautifully finished burr walnut wood veneers across the dashboard and door trims.
• Carpeting – Traditional deep-pile luxury carpeting.
• Air Conditioning – Factory-fitted air conditioning.
• Electric Windows – Power-operated windows.
• Electric Mirrors – Electrically adjustable exterior mirrors.
• Central Locking – Factory central locking system.
• Cruise Control – Factory-fitted cruise control.
• Service History – Service stickers indicate previous maintenance by Bruce McIlroy, renowned Bentley and Rolls-Royce specialists based in Ashburton, New Zealand.
• Condition – Very nicely presented throughout, with minimal signs of wear consistent with its age.
• Pre-Sale Preparation – Our asking price includes a fresh service and general mechanical inspection prior to delivery.

Condition & Presentation

This particular Bentley Turbo R has clearly benefited from careful ownership and maintenance over the years. Its overall presentation is very pleasing, retaining much of the originality, character and craftsmanship that make these motor cars so appealing. The exterior presents beautifully, with its elegant factory colour complemented by traditional chrome detailing and the imposing Bentley radiator grille.

The engine runs smoothly, while the suspension provides the wonderfully compliant ride one expects from a Bentley of this period. Equally impressive is the condition of the interior, where the rich red leather upholstery, polished timber veneers and traditional fittings have stood the test of time remarkably well.

Of particular interest are the service stickers indicating that this motor car has received attention from Bruce McIlroy, a well-known ex Bentley and Rolls-Royce specialists in Ashburton, at various stages of its life. This is reassuring given the specialist knowledge required to maintain these sophisticated British motor cars. For additional peace of mind, the vehicle will receive a fresh service and general mechanical check-over as part of the sale.

Interior – Traditional Bentley Luxury

Step inside and one is immediately reminded of an era when British luxury motor cars were constructed with an extraordinary emphasis on traditional craftsmanship. The beautifully appointed cabin features sumptuous red Connolly leather upholstery, richly polished burr walnut veneers and thick carpeting, creating an atmosphere of understated elegance and refinement.

The generously proportioned seating provides exceptional comfort for both front and rear passengers, while the commanding driving position offers excellent visibility over the Bentley’s long, imposing bonnet. Electric windows, electrically adjustable mirrors, air conditioning, central locking and cruise control provide the conveniences expected of a prestigious luxury motor car.

There is something particularly appealing about the interior of a Bentley from this period. Unlike the increasingly digital environments found in modern luxury vehicles, the Turbo R offers a wonderfully traditional motoring experience, where genuine materials, substantial switchgear and hand-finished detailing take centre stage.

Performance & Driving Experience

Beneath the bonnet lies Bentley’s legendary 6.75-litre turbocharged V8 engine, delivering immense low-down torque and effortless acceleration. Coupled with a smooth three-speed automatic transmission, the Turbo R possesses an ability to gather speed with remarkable authority, particularly impressive considering the substantial size and weight of the motor car.

What truly distinguished the Turbo R from earlier Bentley saloons was its considerably improved road manners. Revised suspension settings, uprated anti-roll bars and wider tyres transformed the handling characteristics, providing greater stability, more precise cornering and a reassuring sense of control.

On the open road, the Turbo R remains a thoroughly enjoyable motor car. Its powerful engine provides effortless overtaking performance, while the sophisticated suspension absorbs road imperfections with remarkable composure. Whether driven at a leisurely pace or with greater enthusiasm, it delivers a satisfying combination of performance, comfort and refinement.

A Significant Bentley Modern Classic

The Bentley Turbo R occupies an important position in the marque’s history. At a time when Bentley and Rolls-Royce shared much of their engineering and production, the Turbo R helped re-establish Bentley as the more sporting and driver-focused of the two marques. Its success contributed significantly to the resurgence of Bentley’s identity as a manufacturer of high-performance luxury motor cars.

Today, these impressive saloons are increasingly appreciated by enthusiasts who recognise their historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship and tremendous character. While values remain relatively accessible compared with many other prestigious British classics, well-preserved examples with known ownership history and evidence of specialist maintenance are particularly worthy of consideration.

For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a traditional British luxury motor car with genuine sporting credentials, this NZ-new 1987 Bentley Turbo R offers an appealing combination of provenance, presentation and driving enjoyment.

With only three owners over the past 31 years, evidence of specialist maintenance and a fresh service included in the asking price, this is a fine opportunity to experience one of the most charismatic luxury performance saloons of its generation.

A distinguished British classic that offers considerably more than simply arriving in style – the Bentley Turbo R makes the journey itself something to savour.

The Bentley name has long been synonymous with prestige, exclusivity and the very finest traditions of British luxury motoring. Few marques command the same level of international recognition and respect, with Bentley enjoying an enduring appeal among collectors and enthusiasts throughout the world. The Turbo R offers an accessible entry into this distinguished world of luxury motoring, delivering a level of sophistication, presence and exclusivity that would ordinarily command a considerably higher price. In today’s classic car market, where individuality, heritage and brand prestige are increasingly valued, the Bentley Turbo R represents exceptional value for money.

From an investment perspective, the Turbo R presents an interesting proposition, particularly as appreciation for well-preserved modern classics continues to develop internationally. While values have historically remained modest relative to the car’s original price and standing, there are signs of growing recognition for the model, with particularly desirable examples attracting greater attention. As the availability of quality, original motor cars gradually diminishes, there is potential for further appreciation, although future values will inevitably depend on condition, maintenance history and market demand. For those seeking a prestigious and exclusive motor car without the substantial financial commitment associated with many other luxury classics, the Bentley Turbo R offers a compelling balance of affordability, international appeal and long-term collectability.

New Zealand Sales
Unless otherwise stated, vehicles sold for use in New Zealand will be supplied with a new Warrant of Fitness (WoF) and 12 months New Zealand registration at the time of sale.

Transport & Shipping
New Zealand transport and worldwide shipping can be arranged on the Buyer’s behalf and at the Buyer’s cost and risk. Any freight, shipping, insurance, customs charges, duties, taxes, import costs, certification or compliance costs are the responsibility of the Buyer unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Export Sales
For vehicles purchased for export, the Buyer is responsible for determining and satisfying all import, registration, certification, compliance, tax and regulatory requirements applicable in the destination country.

Viewing
All vehicle inspections and viewings are strictly by appointment only.

Applicable Law
All sales are subject to applicable New Zealand law. Nothing in these Conditions of Sale excludes or limits any statutory rights or obligations that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited.

For more information about this vehicle, please contact us Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 6:00pm (New Zealand Standard Time) on +64 (0) 3 310-6485. Alternatively, you may email us at [email protected] anytime, or contact us through the form below.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.

NOTIFICATION AS TO NATURE OF GOODS IN TERMS OF THE CONSUMER GUARANTEES ACT 1993

Waimak Group Ltd is a New Zealand registered company and accepts that the vehicle being sold must be of “acceptable quality” in terms of section 7 of the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (the Act) having regard to “the nature of the goods”. Waimak Group Ltd is not aware of any specific defects with the vehicle, however (a) such a vehicle being a classic vehicle may have mechanical breakdowns, electrical failures at inconvenient times and maintenance costs being part of and parcel of ownership of a classic vehicle; (b) reliability is a combination of the particular nature of the classic vehicle, how it is being driven, how it has been maintained, and to a certain extent luck; (c) because of the age of the vehicle, and its propensity to rust, it is likely that the vehicle would have been fully or partially restored, or at least repainted at some point in its life, maybe even more than once. Waimak Group Ltd does not know, and cannot give advice on how good any restoration work on the vehicle had been.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the vehicle is being sold as a classic car; that in terms of the Act and the nature of the goods, the vehicle is an old car, bike or boat, that may have visual and hidden faults, unlike a new motor vehicle.

The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Group Ltd as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak Group Ltd.

The Purchaser acknowledges that they have read and fully understand this notification and the nature of a car which is many years old.