The Brooklands name was so good that Bentley used it twice. Today’s example is from the first tranche of Brooklands, launched in 1992 to succeed the Mulsanne S and Eight models. The new approach – rolling two models into one – simplified the company’s line-up while still giving buyers the option of a “basic” Bentley. The new model arrived with all the technology and comforts of the era but a normally aspirated engine, in contrast to Bentley’s speedier turbocharged offerings. Near the end of Brooklands production, the luxury market shifted again: Bentley accommodated new demands for performance with turbochargers throughout its model selection. Find this 1997 long-wheelbase Brooklands for sale here on craigslist with an asking price of $9500 – a drastic discount from the $150k sticker price. This handcrafted sedan is located in Bellmore, New York, and we owe thanks to Mitchell G for finding it for us.

The Brooklands name refers to Bentley’s race win with the second Bentley ever made at the 1921 Essex Car Club meet, run on the Brooklands racing circuit. EXP2’s engine was a 3.0-liter four-cylinder constructed as a cast-iron monobloc with an aluminum crankcase. It made about 70 hp. Fast forward to the 1997 Brooklands, and we have a 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 good for 300 hp. Gearboxes evolved too, of course, from the synchro-free four-speed manual to the ’97’s silken automatic. This car has traveled only 44,000 miles with two owners since new. It runs well and rides on brand-new tires.

Bentley allowed considerable customization through options and accessories; the seller notes that his car is “fully equipped with every option”, whatever that meant to the original owner. The cabin is nearly impeccable – a victory since maintaining that parchment leather over all these years can’t have been easy. The rear seating area is capacious, as this example sits on a stretched 211.4 wheelbase, four inches longer than the standard version. The seller reports that the car has been maintained well mechanically, including keeping the AC blowing cold.

Bentley’s design idioms are apparent here – the sloped deck, tall grille, and geometric linearity. It could be a reflection, but I think the clearcoat may be damaged to the left of the center trunk-lid badge. The seller does note that the title is branded as a rebuild due to hail damage, which has been repaired. A car like this doesn’t need that albatross: Bentley Brooklands have trouble pulling down five-figure prices even when they’re pristine. Very nice examples with provable maintenance histories can stray into the low $20k area, but mid-teens is more typical. A car like this can cost the new owner twice the purchase price in its first foray into the shop, so a meet-‘n-greet with the seller is a must.