Lot details
Registration No: MHX 1
Chassis No: B256DA
Mot Expiry: Feb 2010

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 OISE straight-six engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. Capable of over 100mph when clad in the factory's understated 'standard steel saloon' coachwork, the MKVI quickly developed a reputation as a well-appointed, spacious sports saloon. However, despite the excellence of the 'basic' car, there remained a core of Bentley enthusiasts who found its styling too anonymous.

One of only 832 4.25 litre MKVIs reputedly fitted with coachbuilt bodies, this wonderfully elegant four-door six-light saloon is the work of H.J. Mulliner. Finished in Morello Cherry Red with grey leather upholstery, chassis 'B-256-DA' is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment) or "excellent" (interior trim, coachwork, paintwork) condition. Supplied new via agent Rippon Bros Ltd to Bradford businessman E.J. Birrell Esq, the copy build sheets which accompany the Bentley note that it was to be fitted with "special shape quarter lights", "polished wood tables in the backs of the front seats" and "polished wood companions (vanity sets)" to the inside of its C-posts. Invoiced on 9th December 1948 and delivered some two months later, the MKVI's external appearance was heightened by a wing line that flowed seamlessly from front to back and rakish spats covering its rear wheels.

Since entering the current (fifth) ownership in 1996, chassis `B-256-DA' is said to have "undergone extensive renovation". Apparently stripped of all its internal / external trim and taken back to bare metal, the aluminium coachwork was then repaired as necessary with "some reverse curvature work being made and installed by English Wheel specialist, Andy Kissack". Entrusted to an ex-Rolls Royce employee and Pickerings of Bradford respectively, the paintwork and interior re-trim are both understood to have been carried out to "an extremely high standard". While, the saloon's aesthetic rejuvenation was capped off with the refurbishment of its chromework. Post-restoration the Bentley is stated to have been "very well maintained and kept in dry storage conditions". Reportedly used to make "many trips to the Continent as well as to various rallies and shows", chassis `B-256-DA' is believed but not warranted to feature on page 257 of Johnnie Green's book `Bentley Fifty Years of the Marque' along with a caption that reads: "possibly one of the nicest and best balanced bodies of that time is this by H.J. Mulliner and one of their earlier special bodies on the MKVI chassis. Excellent visibility is afforded and the whole presents a pleasing light appearance".

Sporting a large centre spotlight and additional driving lights not to mention the valuable cherished number plate `MHX 1', this gorgeous coachbuilt Bentley is offered for sale with numerous restoration photographs, copy build sheets, MOT certificate valid until February 2010 and historic class (free) road tax.