Lot details Registration No: RLG 990 Chassis No: B363TO Mot Expiry: Aug 2011
An evolution of its MkVI predecessor, the Bentley R-type was introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. Subtly reworked from the previous model by in-house stylist John Blatchley, it boasted a notably larger boot and reprofiled rear wings. Switching from riveted to welded frame construction at chassis B349TO, the newcomer featured independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension, a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle and servo-assisted four-wheel drum brakes (hydraulic front / rod rear). Powered by a 'big bore' 4566cc straight-six inlet-over-exhaust engine allied to either four-speed manual or automatic transmission, the R-type was a surprisingly strong performer, able to reach more than 100mph. Praised by the contemporary motoring press for its high-speed handling and well appointed interior, the model remained in production until 1955 by which time some 2320 are thought to have been made.
Finished in grey / silver with red upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Said to be "a lovely looking and driving car" which has recently completed "a 70 mile drive with no apparent faults or issues", 'RLG 990' is further understood to have benefited from an oil and filter change in August 2010. Believed but not warranted to have covered some 150,000 miles from new, the Bentley is accompanied by a leather bound handbook, tool set, copy build sheets / order form and twenty old MOT certificates not to mention numerous invoices / bills including one from Bentley Motors in 1961 for a complete overhaul at cost of £910 (a substantial sum at a time when houses changed hands for an average of £2,700). Apparently showing just two registered keepers on its V5C Registration Document, the R-type is summed-up by the seller as "a very nice example". Though, on the negative side he notes that the front seats have been recovered in vinyl and the front carpets are showing signs of wear. Riding on correct type steel wheels, this appealing Bentley is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until August 2011.
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