1954 Bentley R-Type

Registration No: PXL 333
Chassis No: B42ZY
MOT: Exempt

• 1 of just 2,017 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloons made
• Previously owned by an ex-Bentley engineer and subject to much mechanical improvement during his circa ten-year tenure
• Recent new starter motor and ignition system fettling (late 2022)
• Comes with RREC copy build records, original handbook, assorted bills and various tools etc
• Due to be driven to the sale

An obvious evolution of its MkVI predecessor, the Bentley R-Type was introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. Subtly reworked from the previous model 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 inlet-over-exhaust engine allied to either a four-speed manual or automatic transmission, the R-Type was a surprisingly strong performer, able to reach more than 100mph. 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 2,017 Standard Steel Saloons are thought to have been made.

According to its accompanying RREC copy build records, chassis B-42-ZY was delivered to Hooper & Co for stock on 7^th December 1954. Finished in Metallic Dual Grey with Red leather upholstery and Maroon carpets, the saloon was specified with an under car aerial, sun roof, automatic transmission and trafficators. Granted the distinctive number plate ‘PXL 333’, it was purchased new on 14^th March 1955 by J.F. Howes Esq. of Belsize Avenue, London NW3 (an architect and serial Bentley owner). Seemingly retained by its first owner until 1964 when it passed to F.G. Pearson Esq of Aughton Springs, Ormskirk, the R-Type was then taken off the road for a while before being re-registered with the DVLA under its original number plate on 1^st March 2003. Self-evidently the subject of a past bodywork restoration, the Bentley pleasingly retains its factory-fitted engine (B146Z) plus much of its interior trim. Mechanically improved during the custodianship of a former Bentley engineer who fettled its steering, brakes and fuel system etc, the R-Type was acquired by its last registered keeper on 27^th July 2022 for £27,600. Subsequently treated to circa £2,000 worth of work at the hands of R&J MOT and Repairs Ltd of Cromford which encompassed a new starter motor, distributor cap, rotor arm and sundry electrical repairs plus general servicing, ‘PXL 333’ started readily and ran well during our recent photography session. Still smart cosmetically and with a nicely patinated cabin, it is anticipated that this appealing Bentley will be driven to the Pavilion Gardens. Offered for sale with the aforementioned build records, original handbook, handwritten schedule of work, various bills and sundry other paperwork.

For more information, please contact:
Damian Jones
damian.jones@handh.co.uk
07855 493737