Image of 1987 Bentley Eight, sourced from www.beverlyhillscarclub.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Understated Elegance of the 1987 Bentley Eight

The 1987 Bentley Eight stands as a testament to luxury and understated elegance, a hallmark of its prestigious manufacturer, Bentley Motors. Born in an era where opulence met performance, the Bentley Eight was introduced to cater to a discerning clientele that sought the prestige of a Bentley badge with a touch of modern simplicity. What sets this vehicle apart is not just its grandeur but also its role in revitalizing the brand during the 1980s, offering a more accessible entry point into the world of Bentley.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Bentley Eight exudes classic British luxury car design with its imposing grille and the iconic Flying B mascot perched atop its bonnet. Its lines are stately yet purposeful, creating an air of sophistication that is timeless. Inside, occupants are enveloped in rich leather and genuine wood veneers, materials synonymous with high-end craftsmanship. Technologically, it featured advanced amenities for its time, such as electrically adjustable seats and an advanced suspension system that balanced comfort with handling prowess. The color palette offered ranged from deep blues to classic British Racing Green, with many opting for more subdued hues that emphasized the car's dignified presence. While available primarily as a four-door saloon, it was this body style that became emblematic of the model's identity.

Historical Significance

The introduction of the Bentley Eight marked a pivotal moment for Bentley Motors as it sought to redefine itself in a changing market. It was instrumental in preserving the brand's heritage while making it relevant for modern times. The Eight's blend of traditional craftsmanship with subtle modern touches set it apart from competitors and laid groundwork for future models that would continue to balance these elements.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its bonnet lay a potent 6.75-liter V8 engine that delivered smooth power and effortless cruising capability. While top speed and acceleration figures—such as a 0-60 mph time in the 10-second range—were not groundbreaking for sports cars, they were impressive for a vehicle of its size and luxury status. The ride quality was exemplary; it absorbed imperfections with grace and maintained composure on winding roads. Driving a Bentley Eight was about enjoying the journey in serene comfort, accompanied by the deep burble of its V8.

Ownership Experience

The 1987 Bentley Eight was often used as both a daily driver by executives and as a statement piece at prestigious events. Its reliability was notable for a luxury car, though maintenance could be costly due to the high-quality components used throughout. Owners appreciated the model's relative simplicity compared to more complex stablemates, which translated into fewer headaches for those who preferred to handle minor repairs themselves.

Fun Facts

This model has graced the garages of celebrities and has occasionally been spotted at high-profile events throughout its history. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own record of sorts—the record for bringing Bentley's unmatched luxury to a wider audience than ever before. Despite criticisms over its conservative approach during an era of automotive excess, the Eight maintained Bentley's reputation for excellence without compromise.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors find value in the 1987 Bentley Eight not just for its luxury but also for its significance in Bentley's history. With production numbers estimated in the low thousands, it strikes a balance between rarity and accessibility. Values can vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 or more at auction. The market trend shows appreciation for models in exceptional condition or with unique histories.

Conclusion

The 1987 Bentley Eight represents more than just another luxury car; it is an enduring symbol of British automotive excellence that bridged tradition with modernity. Its legacy is not measured purely in performance metrics or technological breakthroughs but in how it upheld and evolved the grandeur associated with one of the world's most prestigious marques.

1987 Bentley Eight Gravel Shields. 9" long X 7" wide at top-FS 46Gravel Shields. 9" long X 7" wide at top. Some models also use the Auxiliary Gravel shields (see FS 49). Pair

1987 Bentley Eight Auxiliary Gravel Shields (fits some models). 5-3/4" long-FS 49Auxiliary Gravel Shields (fits some models). 5-3/4" long. Pair