First launched in 1997, the Bentley Continental T was a short wheelbase version of the highly capable Continental R. In exchange for a bit of legroom for rear passengers, the Continental T offered more power, and more responsive handling. When paired with aggressive coachwork by the legendary firm Mulliner in 1999, the Continental T became a true supercar for the era and was the final, most powerful offering from the legendary firm before being purchased by Volkswagen.

By 2001, the Mulliner specification included increased output, widened stance and Mulliner tuned suspension for enhanced handling, drilled alloy brake and gas pedals and Mulliner badging. The turbocharged V-8's 420 brake horsepower and staggering 590 pound-feet of torque made it not only the fastest production Bentley ever, but gave it the highest torque of any car then on the market. Bentley claimed that the Continental T would accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 170 mph, all while enveloping the fortunate occupants in the lap of pure luxury. These special factory hot rods, including the example offered here, managed the difficult combination of sophistication and remarkable performance in the stylish and elegant manner one can expect from a Bentley.

The 7th of only 13 built for this model year, this example was originally delivered to Southern California. This stunning Bentley has passed through the collections of just two careful owners since new and has been driven fewer than 16,550 miles. Never damaged and always carefully cared for, the car presents in virtually as-new condition with a major detailing completed late 2019. Also, brake and power steering work was reportedly carried out, including the installation of a new power steering reservoir and two new brake distribution valves.

This exceptionally elegant example is finished Silver Pearl with Stratos hides featuring contrasting piping in Slate. It is nicely optioned with particularly beautiful walnut veneer trim, extra-cost optional chrome wheels, wrap-over waist rails with stainless steel and black enamel Flying B logo inserts, and twin Bentley umbrellas mounted in the trunk. Extra cost-chrome instrument bezels and embroidered marque emblems to the headrests complete the car’s aggressively attractive presentation.

Given the car’s limited production, low mileage, and selected options, it is quite likely the finest example available anywhere at any price. Appreciation for this generation of high-speed touring coupes produced by the Bentley between 2001 and 2003 is growing; they are regarded by many enthusiasts as perhaps the finest Bentleys ever built, harkening back to the iconic short-chassis Speed Sixes of 1929. Beautifully presented, this Continental T Mulliner must-own for any enthusiast who demands the finest things in life.