1954 Bentley R-Type Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: USY 444
Chassis No: B158UM
Mot Expiry: Dec 2012

Bentley's first post-WW2 motorcar was the MKVI of 1946. A handsome four-door, four-light Saloon, it was the first vehicle ever offered by the company with factory-designed coachwork, and the first to be assembled in Rolls-Royce's Crewe factory rather than the old Derby premises. MKVI production continued until June 1952 when the model was supplanted by the similar-looking R Type - the newcomer's principle point of recognition being the much longer boot capped by a one-piece alloy lid - gone too were the rear spats to be replaced by shapely flowing wings. The net result was a body 7.5 inches longer and the now welded chassis was extended by the same amount. Detailed changes included an automatic choke, two-speed wipers and rear window de-mister. In October the same year, the General Motors four-speed Hydra-Matic automatic transmission was made an option and became the standard fit from 1954 onwards. As tested by Autocar, the R-Type could reach 60mph in 13.8 seconds and achieve a very respectable terminal speed of just over 100mph.

The Standard Steel-bodied R Type on offer is a desirable manual example that features Black over Blue bodywork, Grey leather upholstery / carpets and retro-fitted power assisted steering. Well known in RREC circles, it was acquired by the vendor 10 years ago from a former Chairman of the club. The saloon has reportedly enjoyed a fair level of restoration since 2002, including: new panels and sills; a colour change for the lower half of the body; suspension overhaul; and attention to the interior trim and wood veneers - all the work being carried out by RRBSA workshops. The clutch was replaced as recently as last year and the Saloon is said to have been "serviced as needed". The vendor now regards the Bentley which carries a MOT certificate valid until December 2012 as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, manual gearbox, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork.

PLEASE NOTE: This registeration number for this vehicle is USY 444.