Bentley is a brand that has changed hands more than a few times before finally settling comfortably under the VW Group umbrella. First acquired by Rolls-Royce and later rescued by Vickers, yes, the same Vickers responsible for building aeroplanes, Bentley ultimately came under VW’s control in 1998, where it has remained ever since, benefiting from a healthy dose of German engineering know-how.

But many would argue that the last true Bentleys to leave Crewe were the final assortment of hand-built cars that were developed during the Vickers era. The Continental R, originally launched in the early nineties and remaining in production until 2003, is one of them.

The Continental Mulliner R was built as a fond farewell to an icon, combining the increased power of the sportier Continental T with the prestige of the full long-wheelbase R. Finished in Sapphire Black over a Cotswold and Nautic Blue interior, this example was delivered new to its first owner in early 2003.

Externally, the car is predictably handsome. The styling is defined by flared wheel arch extensions, fitted to ensure the wider wheels remain neatly contained. The 18-inch wheels are wrapped in a period-correct set of Pirelli tyres, while a set of optional and rather aggressive wing vents complete the look.

No fast fashion here. Hand-built Bentleys should be studied as a benchmark of luxury. The interior is defined by two core tones: the lighter Cotswold and the darker Nautic. The hide and carpets are complemented by hand-crafted walnut veneers that sprawl elegantly throughout the cabin.

Lift the long bonnet and you’ll find a 6.75-litre turbocharged V8, complete with the obligatory ‘Handbuilt in Crewe’ plaque. It produces 420 bhp and 650 lb-ft of torque, an enormous amount of grunt that propels the Mulliner R to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds.

The service history of this Continental Mulliner R is just as impressive as its performance. With a record of meticulous care from trusted specialists, it’s clear this example has been maintained to the highest standards.

07/2003 - 824 miles - Service - Michael Powles Bentley Limited

02/2004 - 4,551 miles - Service - Michael Powles Bentley Limited

10/2004 - 9,121 miles - Service - Michael Powles Bentley Limited

06/2005 - 12,633 miles - Service - Michael Powles Bentley Limited

12/2005 - 15,504 miles - Service - Michael Powles Bentley Limited

09/2007 - 17,965 miles - Service - Hilliers Hill Rolls Royce & Bentley Specialists

09/2007 - 22,485 miles - Service - Hilliers Hill Rolls Royce & Bentley Specialists

09/2008 - 25,252 miles - Service - Bentley Leicester

05/2009 - 26,333 miles - Service - Bentley Leicester

06/2010 - 27,474 miles - Service - Graeme Hunt Ltd

05/2011 - 32,148 miles - Service - Graeme Hunt Ltd

07/2012 - 33,320 miles - Service - Graeme Hunt Ltd

01/2014 - 34,029 miles - Service - RR & B Garages

04/2014 - 34,369 miles - Service - Bentley Newcastle

02/2018 - 38,059 miles - Steering rack replaced - Bentley Newcastle

11/2022 - 39,584 miles - Brake pump and brake distribution valves replaced - MD Technik

The Continental Mulliner R stands as a lasting tribute to Bentley’s unrivalled combination of craftsmanship and performance. From the flared arches to an utterly beautiful interior, this car perfectly epitomises what a Bentley is about.

Backed by an extensive history file, this Mulliner R has been maintained to the highest standards and is now ready for its next owner. This could be your opportunity to own what was once, the most expensive car on sale.

As with all our vehicles, a full digital folder is available on request containing more images, walk-around videos, and scans of the service history. The car can also be viewed by appointment at our West London showroom.