This is a fascinating piece of late-20th-century luxury, and it carries some interesting history. You’re looking at a 1997 Bentley Brooklands R Sedan, a car that represents the blend of old-world British craftsmanship and emerging performance technology. Its stately appearance and exclusive provenance, including time in the personal collection of two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Bob Richards, give it a distinctive pedigree. With only 33,621 miles showing on the odometer, this particular example is not just a classic, but a well-preserved piece of Bentley’s modern-era saloon lineup. This is a chance to acquire a genuine piece of luxury motoring history.
Black Emerald: The Brooklands R Exterior
The exterior finish is truly captivating. The car is coated in the factory-correct Black Emerald paint. This is a sophisticated color choice that looks almost black until the light catches the metallic green flake. The sedan body style gives it a commanding road presence.
Furthermore, its self-leveling suspension ensures it maintains a poised stance at all times. The car sits on classic 16-inch alloy wheels. These wheels are a subtle yet defining feature of the model’s performance-oriented stance. Power mirrors and windows complete the exterior’s practical, luxurious amenities.
Sandstone Cabin: A Luxurious Interior Appointment
Open the heavy door and you are immediately greeted by an inviting interior. The cabin is trimmed in opulent Sandstone leather. This bright, elegant color contrasts beautifully with the dark exterior. Rich wood detailing is extensively featured throughout the interior.
This classic element immediately reminds you of the handcrafted nature of a proper Bentley. The driver is given a black hide steering wheel. This touch of darker leather adds a sporting feel to the large saloon.
Convenience Features in the 1997 Bentley Brooklands R Sedan
Interior features focus entirely on comfort and convenience. Heated, power-adjustable front seats ensure ultimate luxury on any journey. The car includes both air conditioning and automatic climate control.
These features keep the massive cabin environment perfectly regulated. Power windows, locks, and an AM/FM/CD stereo are also included. For long-distance touring, the sedan also offers cruise control functionality.
Power and Performance: The Twin-Turbo 6.75L V-8
The heart of the 1997 Bentley Brooklands R Sedan is its powerful twin-turbocharged 6.75L V-8 engine. This venerable motor represents a significant evolution in Bentley’s engineering.
For the 1997 model year, this V-8 produced approximately 300 horsepower. Crucially, the engine delivered a massive wave of torque, close to 446 lb-ft, available at a low 2,000 RPM. This torque provides the effortless, stately acceleration Bentley owners expect.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a smooth-shifting automatic transmission. This setup allowed the heavy saloon to achieve a top speed around 140 mph. It could also manage the 0-60 mph sprint in under 8 seconds.
The Provenance and Documentation
This particular sedan holds a truly distinguished history. It was formerly part of the personal collection of Olympic legend Bob Richards. This association adds a layer of unique, verifiable provenance to the car’s background.
The car was originally sold new in sunny Los Angeles, California. A low odometer reading of just 33,621 miles confirms its limited use over the decades. Furthermore, the car includes extensive documentation.
The new custodian receives the original build sheet, shipping documents, and other crucial records. This paperwork validates the car’s specifications and history. Finally, a clean CarFax report provides peace of mind regarding its condition.
Summary
This 1997 Bentley Brooklands R Sedan represents a superb opportunity. It blends true high-end luxury with genuine performance capability. The car has an exceptionally low 33,621 miles and striking Black Emerald paint. Its association with an Olympic champion adds compelling collectibility. This fully documented Bentley offers a rare chance to experience luxury from a bygone era.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: mecum.com
