Bentley Turbo R Tyres

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1996 Bentley Turbo R Brochure Photo

Bentley Turbo R 1985–1997

From the release of the Bentley Turbo R and RL (long wheelbase) in 1985, it came fitted with 255/65 R15 tyres.
The only high-quality classic tyre currently made in size is the 255/65 VR 15 Avon Turbospeed CR27.
From 1987 to 1992, The Bentley Turbo R and RL switched to 275/55 R15 tyres.
The original equipment 275/55 R15 tire is the PIRELLI CINTURATO ™ P7. Unfortunately, the P7 is not currently made in the 275/55 R15 size.
The only high-quality classic tire currently available in this size is the 275/55 VR 15 Avon CR6ZZ. However, this is primarily a racing tyre. This makes it less than ideal for the Bentley, a large, heavy vehicle crafted for luxurious comfort and grand cruising.
One of our period fitment sources suggests that some 1987-1992 models still fitted 255/65 R15 tyres. We recommend the 255/65 VR 15 Avon Turbospeed CR27 if you need tyres of this size.
In 1993 the Turbo R and Bentley Turbo RL switched back to 255/65 R15 tyres. Our recommended tire remains the 255/65 VR 15 Avon Turbospeed CR27 for R and RL models.
From 1994 to 1995 standard turbo R models came fitted with 16" wheels and 255/60 R16 tyres. In this size we recommend the 255/60 WR 16 Avon Turbospeed CR27.
From 1996-1997 Turbo R models moved up to 17" wheels and 255/55 R17 tyres. In this size we recommend the 255/55 WR 17 Avon CR228D.
In 1998 the turbo RT 'Mulliner' edition fitted 18" wheels and 285/45 R18 tyres, in this size the only appropriate period classic tire is the 285/45 ZR 18 Pirelli P-Zero Asimmetrico.
The Turbo R fits low-profile tyres. Tyres with a profile below 70% (e.g. 275/55 VR 15 Avon CR6ZZ) should not fit innertubes.

Bentley Turbo R Recommended Tyres

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255/65 VR 15 Avon Turbospeed CR27
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275/55 VR 15 Avon CR6ZZ

Starting at £607.20 £506.00
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255/60 WR 16 Avon Turbospeed CR27
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255/55 WR 17 Avon CR228D
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285/45 ZR 18 Pirelli P-Zero Asimmetrico

Bentley Turbo R

History of the Bentley Turbo R

During the 1970s, Bentley struggled to find its own identity, especially as its models heavily resembled those of Rolls Royce. This caused a decline in its brand prominence and sales. However, by the end of that decade and into the early 1980s, a change was on the horizon. Bentley began crafting vehicles with a unique flair, setting its sights on a sportier driving experience.

Bentley's renewed vigor was evident with the introduction of the Mulsanne and the Eight during the early 1980s. Traces of the Rolls Royce Silver Spirit could still be found in these models, but Bentley set them apart with signature front-end designs and improved seating ergonomics. The sporty ethos was further amplified with the Mulsanne S debut. Yet, it was 1982's Turbo that decisively marked Bentley's comeback, instantly captivating automobile enthusiasts.

1991 Bentley Turbo R Specifications

Responding to the Turbo's success, Bentley unveiled an upgraded version in 1985, the Turbo R. While it retained the foundational elements of the Mulsanne Turbo, including its V8 engine and turbocharger, the Turbo R boasted state-of-the-art Bosch MK-Motronic fuel injection, boosting its output to a striking 328 bhp. Safety concerns regarding the tyres' ability to handle the mix of heft and power led to the Turbo R's top speed being capped at 135 mph.

The Turbo R, for a time, shared the stage with the Mulsanne Turbo. By 1985, Bentley had decided to retire the Mulsanne. In 1986, enhancements came to the Turbo R, equipping it with superior anti-lock brakes and migrating from the Solex carburettors to the Bosch MK-Motronic fuel injection. Along with this, design improvements included slimmer sports seats and a refined rear axle ratio. 1988 brought aesthetic refinements to the Turbo R, introducing dual round headlamps and a bolder front spoiler. Marking the onset of the 1990s, Bentley transitioned to the GM's 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission for the Turbo R by 1991–1992, a move echoed in other Bentley/Rolls-Royce variants.

From its inception in 1985 to its end in 1998, the Turbo R wasn't just a vehicle; it was a statement, redefining Bentley's identity and laying the groundwork for models to come. The Continental and Azure, inspired by the Turbo R, ensured that its legacy resonated well beyond its years of production.