In a landmark moment for automotive history, Bentley has reintroduced the world’s oldest Bentley T-Series, a distinguished standard saloon in Shell Grey, to its Crewe headquarters after a 59-year hiatus. This significant piece of Bentley’s heritage, chassis number SBH1001, is now a cherished addition to the Bentley Heritage Collection, completing the story of the marque’s evolution through the 1960s and 1970s.
A Historical Gem
The T-Series, produced in the early 1960s, marked Bentley’s transition to unitary monocoque construction, a significant departure from the traditional separate chassis. This particular model, chassis SBH1001, was originally utilized as a company trials car and featured prominently in the press following its debut at the 1965 Paris Salon de l’Auto. However, the car had been in storage, under a cover, and had not run for decades, missing several critical components, including its entire interior.
The decision to recommission this T-Series was driven by its historic significance as the first-of-line T-Series, as well as the unique opportunity to preserve as much of the original car as possible. Mike Sayer, Head of the Bentley Heritage Collection, emphasized the importance of saving this piece of history, stating, “The T-Series is one of the final two pieces of the puzzle to complete our rejuvenated Heritage Collection.”
The Restoration Process
The restoration of the Bentley T-Series was a meticulous and challenging process. The car, found under a tarpaulin in a warehouse, required significant work to return to its former glory. Bentley apprentices began by dismantling and assessing the vehicle, and the project was subsequently entrusted to P&A Wood, renowned experts in classic Bentley preservation and restoration.
Key components of the drivetrain were surprisingly well-preserved, with the engine, gearbox, and rear axle needing only minor servicing. However, major challenges included the absence of a dashboard, interior trim, and a wiring loom in disarray. The restoration team sourced a donor vehicle to match the early model specifications, addressing issues such as corrosion, poor-quality crash repairs, and missing parts.
The restoration also involved a comprehensive overhaul of the T-Series’s innovative vibration-deadening Vibrashock mounts and two-circuit hydro-pneumatic ride control. The team worked meticulously to preserve the car’s original patina while updating the paintwork and mechanical systems.
A New Chapter in Bentley’s Heritage
Now restored to prime condition, the Bentley T-Series has been reunited with its original press office registration number, 1900 TU. It joins a collection of 45 other historic vehicles on Bentley’s campus in Crewe, where it will be kept in running, road-legal condition for display and occasional driving.
The T-Series, alongside Bentley’s T-Series Mulliner Coupe, represents a critical chapter in Bentley’s history. It reflects the marque’s innovative engineering and commitment to luxury, featuring a 6.23-litre V8 engine and pioneering monocoque construction.
With its restoration complete, the Bentley T-Series stands as a testament to Bentley’s rich heritage and engineering excellence. It will continue to be a key part of the Bentley Heritage Collection, celebrating over a century of automotive achievement and innovation.
Source: Bentley
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