Bentley Turbo RT Olympian

By 1997, the Bentley Turbo R had been in production for 12 years, and its body style dated back 4 further years. While awaiting the launch of the all-new Arnage in 1999, Bentley bridged the gap by creating the Turbo RT, using newer technologies first seen on the Continental T. Although only around 250 Turbo RTs were built, that model alone isn’t rare enough for inclusion here.

In 1998, the world’s largest Bentley dealer – Jack Barclay in London – commissioned a series of cars to be called the Turbo RT Olympian, with many bespoke features rarely seen.

 

Bentley Turbo RT Olympian

 

Although customers could still choose their vehicles’ specifications, most came with the 18″ alloy wheels from the Continental T, body-coloured headlamp surrounds, badge bars mounted to the front bumpers, and the reduced-size Mulliner rear window.

 

The better to shield you from prying eyes.

 

Interiors featured ruched leather, piping, and substantial amounts of wood veneer.

 

Blue leather with red piping? Bold choice.

 

Finally, to ensure that the plebeians following you wouldn’t confuse your Olympian with a run-of-the-mill Turbo RT, a bespoke badge was added to the right of the boot lid.

 

That badge really does say Olympian through the glare.

 

It’s estimated that only 4 examples of the Turbo RT Olympian were built, all in 1998. One of the 4 (the one pictured) is currently for sale at Hanwells of London, for a seemingly reasonable £29,950!

 

Images courtesy Hanwells of London.