Here's a car that is as polarizing of opinions as it is rare, the Hooper-bodied Empress II based on a Bentley Turbo R. The original ad includes a good amount of detail on the original build so we're including it below.
During the time this car was originally on offer, Hooper only made four models, this one, an extended wheelbase limousine in various configurations, a two-door Silver Spirit, and a two-door Turbo R. The Empress II was the only car to receive a fully reworked body whereas the others made due with lengthening or shortening of the chassis and relevant door sections.
The original invoice shown below indicates a total cost of exactly $500,000, broken down into two charges, one of $90,000 for the Turbo R upon which the car was based, and an astonishing $410,000 for the conversion process. It further indicates a total build time of 8-months from order date of June 1st, 1990 to delivery or March 1st, 1991.
Sure it's expensive at $175,000, but where are you gonna find another one?
1990 BENTLEY Hooper Empress II Blue/Blue
Based on the Turbo R, this Bentley is striking and refined.
These were $650,000 when new (which equates to approximately $1,000,000 in today's money!)
It started life as a U.S. spec Turbo R before being commissioned by Hooper & Co. to do the 500,000 pound conversion for it's then Japanese Dr. owner.
It has been maintained extremely well and drives as it should, and very strong.
- Clean & Clear CA Title
- Dark Blue exterior with Dark Blue Connelly Leather interior
- 6.75L Turbo V8
- Automatic Transmission
- Hooper Convertsion (500,000 pounds): Opera rear window, Red 'B' logo,Glass solar protected fixed panel over front seats,
Stainless steel wheel arch surrounds thin style, body sills, infills to front and rear bumpers and rear light, rear number plate surround, sill plate "European Carriage House & Hooper", Bumper and wipers painted in black, Chrome alloy wheels, Front spoiler colour keyed to body colour, Badge bar, Hooper style console fitted between front seats with rolls top to rear of console, finished in black leather, Cocktail cabinet fitted between rear seats housing, two cut glass decanters, one ice bucket and four cut glass drinking tumblers, with mirrors illuminated when lid opened, Hallmarked sterling silver ladies vanity unit, accessories by the Queens Jewelers Asprey of London, Alpine all-in-one CD & radio cassette, multi change CD in boot compartment with remote control, 2 x 3554 amplifier, cassette storage to both door panels.
If you are a Bentley fan or looking for something very unique and majestic, this is a great choice."
(Photos/text: Copyright; Vehicle Owner)
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