1979 Bentley T2

Announced at the 1965 Paris Motor Show, the Bentley T-series was the “performance” version of the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow – Bentley having been bought by Rolls Royce in 1931 and becoming known as the sports arm of RR.  Available as a four door saloon, a long wheelbase four door saloon, a two door saloon (similar to the Rolls Royce Corniche) and a two door convertible, the Bentley versions differed only in the adoption of a more rounded grille that allowed the bonnet to sit 5 inches lower (hence the slightly different stance between the cars).

Mechanically, the T versions of the Bentleys matched their RR equivalents.  This Bentley T-series was, however, completely different from the previous Bentley S series with its new monocoque body.  Subframes were used to mount the engine and suspension and the car was smaller overall (7 inches shorter, 3.5 inches narrower and 68 kg lighter).  The interior of the car had a bigger passenger compartment though and could carry more luggage.  Independent self levelling suspension was fitted to all four corners, as were disc brakes.  Lighter power steering and a new automatic transmission made the car easier to drive, while the larger fuel tank offered greater cruising distances in the new 8-way electric front seats.

T2

Introduced in 1977, this upgraded model came with revised brakes, a new front air dam, upgraded suspension, rack and pinion steering and a better level of trim inside the car including improved air conditioning.  Bosch fuel injection was added in 1979.

568 of these were made until they were discontinued in 1980.

Bentley T2 (1979) – Vital Statistics