More than just a few felt surprised when the launch in 1980 of a new model generation by Rolls-Royce included Bentley model - because it had been noticed that previously the company's efforts at providing an alternative for the dyed-in-the-wool Bentley aficionado had been but half-hearted. The Bentley Mulsanne's name derived from Bentley's famous history, which included five victories at the "24 Hours at Le Mans" - the 'Mulsanne' being that stretch of the Le Mans racecourse where cars gain highest speed. The new Bentley promised to epitomize the very spirit of Bentley motoring by offering ample performance combined with complete comfort - enjoyed definitely less ostentatious than on board the stable companions with their square radiators. Presumably the wish to drive a Rolls-Royce 'incognito' was the driving force for the two Bentley Mulsanne L limousines though undoubtedly with their extended wheelbase these had presence of their own in traffic.

Technical Data:
8 cylinder 90 degree V-configuration, aluminium-silicon alloy cylinder block with cast iron wet cylinder liners; bore x stroke 104.14 x 99.06 mm (4.1 x 3.9 in), capacity 6,750 cc, aluminium alloy cylinder heads; 2 SU carburettors (Bosch fuel injection on export models for North America and Japan, from 1986 Bosch fuel injection standard on all cars); 3-speed automatic gearbox; hypoid bevel final drive; independent suspension with coil springs front and rear, hydraulic self-levelling height control rear; ventilated disc brakes front, plain discs rear; wheelbase 3,061 mm (120,5 in) or 3,161 mm (124,5 in); tyres 235/70HR x 15