1989 Bentley Background Info
The 1989 Bentley Vibe
Welcome to 1989-the year of the high-stakes takeover and the "Wolf in a Savile Row Suit." Whether you were piloting a Turbo R or the stately Bentley Eight, this era was about unapologetic, heavy-metal luxury. In our archives, we've focused on the only shade that truly captures that British soul: Racing Green. This wasn't just a color; it was a statement of intent. It's deep, it's brooding, and when it's right, it looks like you could swim in it. Back then, the factory was still obsessed with hand-finishing, but the chemistry of the late '80s was starting to shift toward the modern era.
Paint Health Check
Since we're dealing with the Peeling Era (1985-2005), we have to talk about the elephant in the garage: delamination. By 1989, the industry was fully committed to the two-stage system-a pigment base followed by a protective clear coat. While it gave that Racing Green its legendary depth, these early clear coats are notorious for "checking" or micro-cracking on flat surfaces like the roof and those massive front fenders. If you see white, cloudy patches or edges that look like they're starting to lift like a bad sunburn, that's the clear coat failing. Once air and moisture get under that top layer, the bond is history.
Restoration Tip
The secret to keeping a 1989 Bentley looking like a million bucks is "Early Intervention." Because these cars used high-solid clears that were thicker than today's "efficiency" paints, a rock chip isn't just a blemish-it's an entry point for delamination. Seal every chip immediately. If you let a chip sit, the clear coat will eventually start to "flower" and peel back from the impact site. When touching up that Racing Green, build your layers slowly to match the original factory depth, and always ensure your edges are sealed tight to prevent the clear from lifting further. A little maintenance now saves you a five-figure strip-and-spray later.