1998 Bentley Brooklands ‘R’ Mulliner. Number 1 of 100 Produced. Ruby Red Mica with Parchment Hide Upholstery. Just 44,000 miles from new.
There are motor cars, and then there are statements of occasion. This remarkable 1998 Bentley Brooklands ‘R’ Mulliner is firmly the latter, a car that not only represents the culmination of an era, but does so as the very first example of a strictly limited run. For the discerning collector who values provenance, rarity and significance in equal measure, opportunities such as this are exceedingly rare.
The Brooklands ‘R’ Mulliner occupies a unique and highly important position in Bentley’s lineage. It marks the final chapter of the revered SZ series, a bloodline that began in 1981 and defined Bentley’s resurgence of performance led luxury throughout the 1980s and 1990s. As the curtain fell on this iconic generation, just 100 Mulliner ‘R’ examples were commissioned to celebrate its legacy before the arrival of the Arnage in May 1998.
This particular motor car is Number 1 of those 100 examples, the very first produced, placing it in a category of collectability that transcends even its already limited production. For many seasoned Bentley collectors, the significance of owning the first of a final series cannot be overstated; it is both a beginning and an end, a true “bookend” motor car.
Each Brooklands ‘R’ Mulliner was entrusted to the highly skilled craftsmen of Mulliner Park Ward, where a series of bespoke enhancements elevated the car beyond the already distinguished Brooklands platform. Externally, the transformation is both subtle and purposeful. Colour-coded bumpers, grille, headlamp bezels, door mirrors and wing vents lend a more contemporary and cohesive presence, while the addition of Continental T-style exhaust outlets and unique 18-inch Mulliner alloy wheels introduce a sporting undertone befitting Bentley’s grand touring ethos. Chrome mesh detailing to the grille and air intakes, alongside distinctive green lettered badging, further distinguishes these final edition cars.
The interior is where Mulliner’s craftsmanship truly reveals itself. This example is finished in an elegant and highly unusual Parchment hide, beautifully complemented by darker stained walnut veneers that flow seamlessly across the fascia, door cappings and interior architecture. Chrome instrument bezels, embroidered “B” insignias to the headrests and a bespoke chrome and leather gear selector provide subtle yet unmistakable reminders of its elevated status. A numbered plaque discreetly housed within the fascia confirms its position as Car Number 1 of 100, a detail that alone sets this car apart from virtually every other Brooklands in existence.
The exterior finish is equally noteworthy. Presented in the striking Ruby Red Mica, a colour believed to have been applied to just two examples, this car possesses an immediate visual presence that is both rare and deeply evocative of late 1990s Bentley individuality. It is a hue that enhances the car’s sculpted, muscular lines while remaining entirely appropriate to its heritage.
Having covered just 44,000 miles from new, this Brooklands ‘R’ Mulliner offers not only exceptional rarity but also outstanding usability. It retains the effortless surge of Bentley’s legendary 6.75-litre V8, delivering refined performance in the uniquely understated manner that only Crewe could achieve during this period.
This is not simply a motor car to be owned it is one to be curated. Whether forming the centrepiece of a significant collection or enjoyed as one of the most exclusive Bentley saloons of its era, this example represents a confluence of rarity, provenance and historical importance that is seldom encountered.
For those who understand the marque, and for those who seek the very finest, Number 1 of 100 is an opportunity that speaks for itself.
Viewing is highly recommended to fully appreciate the quality and condition of this car. Delivery can be arranged with ease should you require it. For further information please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for taking the time to read our advert and for visiting our website. You will find many more photographs and a detailed walk-around video available online to assist with your enquiry.
Please note the private registration number has now been removed and the new registration is now S406UND.