1972 Bentley Background Info
The 1972 Bentley Vibe
In 1972, the Bentley T-Series and the Corniche were the last words in "old world" dignity while the rest of the automotive world was busy turning everything harvest gold and avocado green. This was an era of heavy chrome, walnut-veneered dashboards, and enough leather to make a cattle rancher blush. When it comes to the palette for all 1972 models, we've focused on the survivor that defines the marque: Racing Green. It wasn't just a color choice; it was a statement of British sporting heritage that looked just as good parked in Mayfair as it did at Le Mans.
Paint Health Check
Back in '72, Bentley was still laying it on thick with single-stage lacquer. There's no clear coat here to delaminate or peel like a bad sunburn; instead, you're dealing with the "Single Stage Era" reality. The good news? The paint is honest. The bad news? It's thirsty. If your 1972 Bentley has been sitting in the sun, that Racing Green has likely succumbed to "oxidation"-that chalky, hazy fade where the pigment literally dies on the surface. Because there's no protective clear layer, the environment is constantly trying to turn your deep forest green into a dull, dusty sage.
Restoration Tip
The golden rule for 1972 single-stage paint is simple: **It needs wax or it dies.** Because you are working directly with the pigment, you can actually "bring back the dead" with a light polishing compound and some elbow grease. Unlike modern thin factory enamels, you've got some meat on the bone here to work with. However, once you've buffed away that oxidized layer and revealed the shine, you must seal it immediately. Use a high-quality carnuba wax or a solvent-based sealant to create a barrier. Without it, the porous surface will just start oxidizing again before you've even finished your first Sunday drive.