Lot details Registration No: LGH 962 Chassis No: B167FU Mot Expiry: Oct 2010
Introduced in 1946, the MKVI was Bentley's first post-war model. Aimed at the emerging 'owner-driver' luxury car market, the newcomer 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 (overhead inlet side exhaust valve) 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 for being a refined yet responsive drive. However, despite the excellence of the 'basic' car, there remained a core of Bentley enthusiasts who found its styling too anonymous. Thus, of the 4,000 4.25 litre MKVIs made some 832 are thought to have been fitted with coachbuilt bodies.
One of just forty-five Bentley MKVIs to wear this particular style of Park Ward Drophead Coupe coachwork (design number 100), chassis number B167FU was supplied new via dealer James Young Ltd to Richard Klinger Ltd in April 1950. Understood to have had just another four listed owners since then including T.R. Walker of Ilton, Ilminster and D.L.G. Redhead Esq of London, the Bentley was reportedly treated to "a no expense spared restoration by Nigel Cooper and H.R. Owen in 1999 - 2000".
Said to have covered less than 5,000 miles during the intervening decade or so, the four-seater is described by the vendor as being in "excellent" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork. Forming part of a very large but private collection in recent years, the Bentley's impressive specification encompasses a power hood, hood cover, alarm / battery isolator, central spotlight, wing mirrors and electric windows.
A wonderfully handsome design, the drophead coupe's voluptuous wings, cut-away rear spats and striking two-tone livery are offset by rich red leather upholstery. Offered for sale at a fraction of its restoration cost and summed-up by the seller as "simply stunning", this magnificent MKVI should reward close scrutiny.
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