16th Apr, 2009 13:30

The Pavilion Gardens

 
  Lot 43
 

1954 Bentley R-Type Saloon

Sold for £28,125

(including buyers premium)


Lot details
Registration No: JBO 839
Chassis No: B148-WH
Mot Expiry: Sept 2009

An obvious evolution of its MKVI predecessor, the Bentley R-type was introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. Subtly reworked 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 OISE engine allied to either four-speed manual or automatic transmission, the R-type was a surprisingly strong performer. 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 2,320 are thought to have been made.

H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "Supplied new to Thorpe Bros (Wimbledon) Ltd, this R type has a full ownership and service history. Early invoices make interesting reading - how about a bill from Bentley Motors (1931) Willesden for `dismantling and re-erecting engine. Supplying replacement service exchange engine' all at a cost of £335 0s 0d in 1962! After a lengthy period in storage, `JBO 839' was passed by the original owner to his grandson who set about a `nut and bolt restoration' (photographic record available) which was completed in 1999. All work seems to have been carried out with great care and attention to detail - supported by a large number of invoices for new parts - and the result speaks for itself. The woodwork is worthy of special mention. The current owner does recognise, however, that the front passenger seat cushion needs repair / replacing but this is perhaps the only `fault' with this magnificent R type (just look at those chromed door hinges). The car is reported to start and run sweetly, with a particularly quiet engine, and the four-speed automatic gearbox is smooth in operation. All tools are with the car, as well as the owner's handbook and factory service manual. This is a magnificent example of the powerful and very driveable Bentley R type".
 

All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.

You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:

               

Auction: The Pavilion Gardens, 16th Apr, 2009

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