Introduced at the 1982 Geneva Motor Show, the Mulsanne Turbo signalled a revival in the winged 'B's fortunes.

Somewhat raffish when compared to its Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit sibling, the Turbo breathed new life into Bentley sales.

Indeed, in some ways, this glorious automotive wolf in (large) sheep's clothing can be credited with inspiring Bentley's victorious return to Le Mans.

With some 300bhp courtesy of its force-fed 6.75 litre V8, the Mulsanne Turbo was reputedly capable of an easy 135mph and 0-60mph in under seven seconds.

Although, for those not wishing to indulge in such prodigious performance, its smooth automatic transmission and supple independent suspension also allowed for more dignified progress.

Debuting in March 1985, the evolutionary Turbo R provided an altogether more focused driving experience.

Benefiting from an uprated torque converter, more horsepower, stiffer anti-roll bars and firmer damping, its handling drew considerable praise from the contemporary moto...