Lot details
Registration No: PHA 973
Chassis No: B399LH
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

Introduced in 1946, the MKVI was Bentley's first post-war model. Aimed at the emerging 'owner-driver' luxury car market, it was closely based on the 1939 MKV (of which only fifteen were produced). Built around a massive cruciform-braced chassis with independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle, it was fitted with a freshly developed 4257cc (later 4566cc) overhead inlet / side exhaust straight-six engine mated to four-speed manual transmission. Unfortunately, the variable quality of steel available in the post-WW2 period meant that the MKVI's standard steel saloon coachwork rarely lasted as long as Crewe had intended. Thus, by the mid-1960s there were a good number of mechanically strong but cosmetically tatty cars running around. Dating from that time onwards, the tradition of building Bentley MKVI-based Specials is a long and proud one.

Finished in White over Red with Red upholstery, this particular MkVI Special is reputedly one of sixteen such cars built by Halse Engineering of Sussex during the mid-1970s (see 'Bentley Specials and Special Bentleys Volume One' by Ray Roberts for more details). A fun design which unlike some MkVI-based creations does not pretend to be a W.O. Bentley model, the Halse nevertheless sports some flamboyant styling touches such as its cut-down radiator shell, side-exiting three branch exhaust pipe, dual cowl scuttle, external fuel tank, amply stocked dashboard, fold-flat windscreen, twin leather bonnet straps and oversize headlamps. Considerably lighter and consequently faster than a standard steel saloon thanks to its fibreglass body tub, the Special rides on silver-painted wire wheels. Part of the Litchfield collection since 10th March 1980 (longer than any other car), 'PHA 973' started readily upon inspection. Doubtless exhilarating drive, this engaging Bentley MkVI Special is offered for sale with sundry paperwork and various MOT certificates dating back to 1995.