Lot details Registration No: FVA 585 Chassis No: B307EW Mot Expiry: Sept 2006
Introduced in 1946, the MKVI was Bentley's first post-war model. Aimed at the emerging 'owner-driver' luxury car market, it 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 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 as a well-appointed, spacious sports saloon. However, despite the excellence of the 'basic' car, there remained a core of Bentley enthusiasts who found its styling too anonymous.
One of only 832 4.25 litre MKVIs reputedly fitted with coachbuilt bodies, this wonderfully elegant all-alloy four-door saloon is the work of Hooper & Co. An example of their chief designer Osmond Rivers' 'New Look', the way its wing line (so pronounced at the front) gently melds into the doors lends it a passing resemblance to the firm's contemporaneous 'Empress Line' Daimlers. In the present ownership for thirty years, it is believed but not warranted to have covered 92,000 miles from new. Finished in black with beige leather upholstery, it is described by the vendor as being in good overall condition. Though, he notes that its "mostly original paintwork which would benefit from some partial restoration". Apparently "used regularly up to six years ago", it is reported to "drive extremely well with no vices". Only sidelined by a more recently acquired drophead, it is offered for sale with "most tools, mascot and original handbook".
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