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1985 - 1995 Bentley Turbo R Pre-Owned Review

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Khatir Soltani

The Car that Changed Perceptions

With the rise of the baby boomers during the mid-1980s, came a higher level of luxury and performance cars. Few, mind you, incorporated both attributes with anywhere near the same level of prowess as the 1985 Bentley Turbo R.

Few cars incorporated the level of luxury and performance anywhere near that of the 1985-1995 Bentley Turbo R. (Photo: http://www.autosalon-singen.de)

Initially what were stylish rectangular headlamps, similar to those on the handsome Mulsanne Turbo that was phased out soon after the R took to the road, were replaced with a sporty set of four round headlights in 1989. A bold body-color Bentley grille took center stage, initiating an elegantly sculpted hood that led up to its tall, formal greenhouse. While a fairly square, three-box configuration, the sum of the parts resulted in an attractive overall design.

Considering the Turbo R's weight and bricklike aerodynamics, it still acheived a top speed of 220 km/h in its first year of production and could go from 0 to 100 km/h in about six seconds.

But it wasn't its styling that garnered all the initial attention. The Turbo R was mostly about performance, pulling up Le Mans winning roots the premium automaker hadn't returned to in a very long time. Top speed initially was 220 km/h (137 mph), not supercar territory but considering its overall mass and bricklike aerodynamics, despite the addition of a front air dam, an impressive feat. Zero to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds was even more outstanding.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada