For Bentley, the T-Series of 1965 was a radical new move in that it was the first monocoque construction employed by the company, as well as the first with all-round independent suspension. With more up-to-date styling and a roofline four inches lower than its predecessor, the T-Series also appealed to a younger group of buyers, but underneath it still featured the venerable 6.2-liter V-8 from the Silver Cloud and the same handbuilt English craftsmanship expected of the Bentley marque. The equivalent Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow was produced in far greater numbers at a ratio of 11:1, making this 1968 Bentley T2 a quite rare offering.

This car is even more distinctive in that it is a U.S.-delivery, left-hand-drive example that is largely original and beautifully maintained. An extremely good example, it comes with a service history that covers the last two decades, including sympathetic refurbishment and a quality 1990 respray in gold over gray with a brown coachline on either side of the thin chrome beltline molding. Michelin thin whitewall tires are attractively set off by Bentley wheel covers. The tan leather interior with matching carpets is in very good condition. A slightly later second series leather-wrapped steering wheel has been added, as has an Alpine stereo with CD player. The air conditioning functions correctly.

This is a dead-straight and stunningly preserved car that comes with copies of its build sheets, owner’s manual, toolkit, jack and two keys in addition to the extensive service documentation. Many early chrome bumper Bentleys of this vintage have not led such pampered lives, so this nicely sorted and very clean example presents a perfect and practical opportunity to get into classic Bentley ownership.