Lot details
Registration No: 6733 PP
Chassis No: BC90AF
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

Allocated design number 7400, the two-door all-aluminium Fastback coachwork which H.J. Mulliner crafted for the Bentley S1 Continental chassis was decidedly rarer than that fitted to its R-Type predecessor (151 vs. 192). Stylistically more reserved but still "flowing and purposeful and free from any needless excrescence", the newcomer was not only underpinned by a notably stiffer chassis (up fifty percent in terms of torsional rigidity) but also boasted a smaller turning circle, more compliant suspension and improved hydraulic brakes. Typically allied to four-speed automatic transmission, its refined 4887cc OISE straight-six engine yielded a 120mph top speed and impressive acceleration. Arguably the ultimate Bentley S1 Continental variant, the H.J. Mulliner Fastback was among the very fastest and most glamorous four-seaters of its generation.

According to its accompanying copy chassis cards, this particular example - chassis BC90AF - was supplied new via H.R. Owen Ltd to Guy Howard Martineau Esq of London SW7 (whose extended family tree encompasses the present Duchess of Cambridge). Clothed by H.J. Mulliner with body number 5886, the Bentley was initially road registered as `GM 7' and finished in Regal Red with Off White leather upholstery. Further distinguished by a `Continental badge to boot lid, letters GB to rear plate and crests to doors', the Fastback subsequently belonged to Dr J.A. Ogilvy of Birstall and Gerald Poulson Esq of Little Bardfield before entering the current ownership on Valentine's Day 1992.

Bought by the vendor as a present for his wife, chassis BC90AF has been garaged alongside several other Continentals for the past twenty-one years (including a near identical S1 Fastback). The subject of an extensive bodywork restoration and interior re-trim between 1999 and 2001, the Bentley benefited from an automatic gearbox overhaul and replacement ring gear during the same period. Maintained in-house with parts supplied by the likes of Ristes Motor Company, P&A Wood and Vintage Supplies etc, more recent work has seen the four-seater treated to a thorough brake system refurbishment (master cylinder / six wheel cylinders fitted with stainless steel liners and new rubbers; drums skimmed and new copper pipes / flexible hoses etc) as well as having attention paid to its fuel pump, voltage regulator, exhaust system and headlamps.

Riding on fresh tyres and starting readily upon inspection, `6733 PP' shows an unwarranted 78,956 miles to its odometer. Among the rarest and most desirable of all post-WW2 Bentleys, the S1 Continental H.J. Mulliner Fastback has become increasingly collectible over recent years. A truly handsome machine, chassis BC90AF is offered for sale with copy chassis cards, assorted bills / invoices and fresh MOT certificate.