6 photos

1971' Bentley T2

Negotiable

Published 22 July 2026ID: TKMcnU

Humbert & Ellis
Northamptonshire
+44Show phone

Information from the owner

Body: Sports Car

Age: 55 years

Mileage: 31043 km

Exterior color: Green

Seller's comments about 1971' Bentley T2

1971 BENTLEY T2 EX BERNARD MANNING - ONLY 31, 043 MILES!Few comedians of recent decades have polarised opinion as much as the late Bernard Manning (1930-2007)A big man with a big character and a big appetite to make people laugh and cringe in equal measure- and accordingly he drove a big car-although not blue as some might expect.. This delightful 1971 Bentley T1 was ordered by Manning and built to his specification, including a rare full length Webasto vinyl sunroof, black leather covering to the dashboard and tops of the door panels (as opposed to the traditional burr walnut tops. Apparently his mother chose the Sage Green colour.. The black leather door tops have proved to have aged better than the standard walnut…A previous keeper noted that the full length sunroof made the vehicle feel like a sports car. It would appear that this is possibly the only Bentley T1 with such a full length sunroof. During his ownership, the vehicle sported the registration YKT 60J but has now for some time had the current registration ALG 146J. It is not known when Manning sold the vehicle and indeed it has passed through several owners since, but it is now offered for sale with a low mileage of just 31, 043 miles with a substantial history file and MOT that would support this. The vehicle starts and drives however it will need some mechanical recommissioning to make the best use of the fabulous 6. 75 L engine. The bright work is present and in good order – the bodywork could do with a refresh signs of surface rust as are to be expected but the paintwork holds a good half a century of patina- something that is impossible to create. The interior is tidy – cracks as are to be expected in the Connolly leather but overall it presents well for its age and is ripe for being taken to the next level. Infinitely more desirable than the corresponding Rolls-Royce Shadow 1- this beautiful celebrity Bentley T1 is believed to be one of less than 50 examples still remaining in the UK. A Vehicle of classy understatement, in a highly desirable colourway, with a rare full length sunroof and celebrity appeal – and further offered without reserve…Given the first owner was such a comedian – this vehicle is no joke!Few motor cars encapsulate the quiet authority and restrained opulence of traditional British luxury quite like the Bentley T-Series. Introduced in 1965 as Crewe’s modern monocoque saloon, the T-Series represented a decisive evolution from the coachbuilt era, combining contemporary engineering with the marque’s unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. By 1971, the model had reached a mature phase of production, benefitting from incremental refinements while retaining its elegant, understated character. The example offered here is particularly distinguished, presented in a rare and highly attractive shade of Sage Green, a period-correct hue that complements the car’s crisp, architectural lines. The paintwork harmonizes beautifully with the brightwork—finely detailed chrome bumpers, waistline trim, and the signature Bentley matrix grille—creating a presence that is both dignified and effortlessly sophisticated. Most notably, this motor car is equipped with an exceptionally rare, full-length Webasto sunroof, a desirable period feature seldom encountered on T-Series saloons. Extending across much of the roofline, this folding fabric roof transforms the cabin ambiance, allowing natural light to flood the interior and offering an almost open-air motoring experience—an appealing blend of limousine comfort and continental touring flair. Such a specification would have been a costly and exclusive option when new, underscoring the original owner’s discerning taste. The cabin exemplifies Bentley’s reputation for artisanal excellence. Rich Connolly hide upholstery, likely in a complementary natural or tan tone, is paired with hand-veneered walnut facings, each panel carefully book-matched and finished to a deep, lustrous sheen. The dashboard retains its classic horizontal layout, housing finely calibrated Smiths instrumentation and delicate switchgear, all imbued with a tactile quality absent from modern automobiles. Deep Wilton carpets, lambswool over-rugs, and substantial door cappings complete an environment designed not merely for transport, but for serene, unhurried travel. The presence of the full-length sunroof further elevates the interior, introducing an airy openness rarely associated with formal saloons of the era. Beneath the bonnet lies Bentley’s renowned 6. 75-litre V8 engine, a powerplant celebrated for its near-silent operation and prodigious torque. Paired with a smooth automatic transmission, the T-Series delivers effortless acceleration and an unruffled cruising capability befitting its status. Advanced for its time, the car features independent suspension and a sophisticated hydraulic self-levelling system, derived in part from Citroën technology, ensuring exceptional ride comfort and composure. Disc brakes on all four wheels provide confident stopping power, while power-assisted steering allows for surprisingly manageable handling given the car’s stature. The result is a driving experience defined not by outright speed, but by refinement, composure, and quiet authority—qualities that remain deeply appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike. Bentley T-Series saloons have long been appreciated for their usability and understated elegance, yet examples specified with a full-length sunroof are notably scarce. Combined with its tasteful Sage Green presentation, this motor car stands apart as a particularly characterful and desirable example. Whether viewed as a refined entry into classic Bentley ownership or as a distinctive addition to a curated collection, this 1971 T-Series offers a compelling blend of rarity, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Summary* Desirable 1971 model year example* Finished in elegant Sage Green* Equipped with rare full-length Webasto sunroof* Powered by Bentley’s iconic 6. 75L V8* Exemplifies handcrafted British luxuryA motor car of quiet distinction and enduring appeal, ideally suited to the collector who values originality, subtlety, and the uniquely British interpretation of luxury motoring. And offered here complete with V5 and without reserve...This vehicle is located near Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 from where it will need to be collected. Motorscan report and videos available on request. Viewing is by appointment, please contact the office to arrange.