The sedan Bentley Mulsanne 1980 - 1993 year modification 6.8 AT (218 hp)

Engine
Engine type	petrol
Engine capacity, cm³	6750
Boost type	No
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	218 / 160 at 4200
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	undefined at —
Cylinder arrangement	V-shaped
Number of cylinders	8
Engine power supply system	distributed injection
Compression ratio	8
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	104.14 × 99.06
General information
Brand country	Great Britain
Car class	F
Number of doors	4
Performance indicators
Maximum speed, km/h	204
Acceleration to 100 km/h, s	10
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	24.5 / 13.1 / 16.1
Fuel type	Normal (92)
Sizes in mm
Rear track width	1555
Wheel size	235 / 70 / R15
Length	5270
Width	1885
Height	1485
Wheelbase	3060
Ground clearance	135
Front track width	1550
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	independent, spring
Front brakes	disk ventilated
Rear brakes	disc
Transmission
Transmission	automatic
Number of gears	3
Drive type	rear
Volume and weight
Fuel tank capacity, l	108
Curb weight, kg	2350
Trunk volume min/max, l	550
Gross weight, kg	2880

Bentley Mulsanne: A Timeless Classic of British Luxury

The Bentley Mulsanne, produced between 1980 and 1993, is a quintessential representation of British luxury and engineering excellence. As a flagship sedan from the prestigious Bentley brand, the Mulsanne combines opulence, performance, and timeless design. This article delves into the key features, performance metrics, and unique characteristics of the Bentley Mulsanne, offering a comprehensive overview of what makes this car a standout in its class.

Overview and Design

The Bentley Mulsanne is a full-size luxury sedan that exudes sophistication and grandeur. With its 4-door body type and a length of 5270 mm, the Mulsanne commands attention on the road. Its V8 petrol engine, with a displacement of 6750 cm³, delivers a robust 218 horsepower, ensuring a smooth and powerful driving experience. The car's rear-wheel-drive configuration and 3-speed automatic transmission further enhance its performance, making it a joy to drive.

Inside, the Mulsanne offers a spacious and luxurious cabin, designed to provide the utmost comfort for its occupants. The car's independent spring suspension system ensures a plush ride, while the ventilated disc brakes at the front and rear guarantee reliable stopping power. With a fuel tank capacity of 108 liters and a combined fuel consumption of 16.1 liters per 100 km, the Mulsanne is well-suited for long journeys, offering both comfort and efficiency.

Performance and Engineering

The Bentley Mulsanne is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine, which produces 218 horsepower at 4200 rpm. This engine, combined with a 3-speed automatic transmission, allows the Mulsanne to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10 seconds, reaching a top speed of 204 km/h. While these figures may not match modern performance standards, they were impressive for the time and remain respectable today.

The car's engine features a distributed injection system and a compression ratio of 8, ensuring efficient fuel delivery and combustion. The V8 configuration, with its 104.14 mm cylinder diameter and 99.06 mm piston stroke, provides a balanced mix of power and smoothness. The Mulsanne's rear-wheel-drive setup and independent suspension system contribute to its stable and composed handling, making it a pleasure to drive on both city streets and highways.

Comfort and Practicality

The Bentley Mulsanne is designed with comfort and practicality in mind. The car's spacious interior can comfortably accommodate five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom. The trunk offers a generous 550 liters of storage space, making it suitable for both daily errands and long trips. The Mulsanne's curb weight of 2350 kg and gross weight of 2880 kg ensure a solid and stable ride, while the ground clearance of 135 mm allows for easy navigation over uneven surfaces.

The car's suspension system, featuring independent spring suspension at both the front and rear, provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The ventilated disc brakes offer excellent stopping power, ensuring safety and confidence behind the wheel. The Mulsanne's 235/70 R15 wheels further enhance its stability and grip, making it a reliable choice for any driving conditions.

Pros and Cons

Like any car, the Bentley Mulsanne has its strengths and weaknesses. On the positive side, the Mulsanne offers unparalleled luxury, with a spacious and well-appointed interior, a powerful V8 engine, and a smooth automatic transmission. Its timeless design and prestigious brand name make it a status symbol, while its comfortable ride and practical features ensure it remains a viable option for everyday use.

On the downside, the Mulsanne's fuel consumption is relatively high, with a combined figure of 16.1 liters per 100 km. Additionally, its performance figures, while respectable for its time, may not impress modern drivers accustomed to faster and more efficient vehicles. The car's age also means that maintenance and parts availability could be a concern for potential buyers.

Conclusion

The Bentley Mulsanne is a classic luxury sedan that embodies the best of British automotive engineering. Its powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, and timeless design make it a standout in its class. While it may not match the performance and efficiency of modern vehicles, the Mulsanne offers a unique blend of comfort, style, and prestige that is hard to find in today's market. For those seeking a classic car with a rich heritage and undeniable charm, the Bentley Mulsanne is an excellent choice.