1953 Bentley R-Type Two-Door Saloon by James Young
No Reserve – Entered from the Alyth Collection

Registration No: Un-Registered
Chassis No: B391SP
MOT: Exempt

• Entered from the Alyth Collection, a collection of motor cars stood in storage in Scotland for over 30 years
• Supplied new to Adhesive Tapes Ltd. as one of only 11 with James Young's Design C18 coachwork
• A worthwhile and seemingly complete project

An obvious evolution of its Mk. VI predecessor, the Bentley R-Type was introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show. 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 and rod rear). Powered by a 'big bore' 4,566cc straight-six inlet-over-exhaust engine allied to either 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 2,320 are thought to have been made (though only 303 of those bore coachbuilt bodies).

This extremely graceful R-type, chassis B391SP, is one of only eleven coachbuilt by James Young of Bromley with its Design No. C18 two-door Saloon body. It was originally registered in London as ‘NYT 233’ and supplied new to Adhesive Tapes Ltd. While it appears to have been taken off the road many years ago, it does not appear to have suffered from any major deterioration, and doubtless the thirty years or more which it has spent in the Alyth Collection has helped preserve it. The odometer reading of 61,071 miles is likely to be original, and would account for what appears to be the car’s generally sound condition. During our inspection of the car, we did not notice any severe damage to the interior or bodywork, and we feel it is very likely that the mechanical systems could be brought back to life without too much more than a careful engine overhaul. The upholstery and interior woodwork looks like it should be saveable, and altogether this rare R-type promises to be a worthwhile project which would be well received into the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ and Bentley Drivers’ Clubs upon completion of its restoration.

This lot is sold without paperwork.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430