Bentley MKVI

- SOLD - 

Bentley MkVI Standard Steel Sports Saloon 1949 The Bentley Mark VI Standard Steel Sports Saloon was the first Bentley which was completely assembled and finished at their factory, opposed to when Bentley supplied a rolling chassis to specialist coachbuilders such as Mulliner, Park Ward, James Young etc... Although rather expensive, the MkVI was nevertheless quite successful , with 5202 units produced. The compact wheelbase and engine were based on the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith and the body work design came from ex-Gurney & Nutting chief designer John Blatchley, produced by Pressed Steel Ltd. Being completely produced in steel also enabled Bentley to export the MkVI all over the world. The compact body comfortably seated 4 persons in overwhelming luxury, with the finest Connolly leather trimmed seats and panels, fold-away veneer tables, hydraulically adjustable rear suspension, a sliding sunroof, electrically controlled interior heating, etc& This RHD chassis number B414FV is equipped with the 4257cc straight 'six' and manual 4 speed synchromesh gearbox. Sold new to the Lockheed Hydraulic Brake Company in 1949, this elegant Sport Saloon is well documented with invoices dating back to 1965, test certificates, old English registration log and V5, delivery slip to first owner. She has been serviced regularly in our specialist workshop Twin Cam during the ownership of the 2 previous Belgian owners (15 years in total), but is now reluctantly for sale again (registered as B1949) due to health issues of the last owner. The bodywork is very straight and the chassis very sound. Although many MkVI Standard Steel Saloons were plagued by poor corrosion resistance due to inferior steel from the immediate postwar period, this MkVI however is very well preserved thanks to careful and meticulous maintenance. As it should, the big 'six' instantly starts on the button and purrs gently on idle. Good oil pressure, continuous charge and efficient cooling show that this almost indestructible engine is indeed very healthy. The gearshift is located on the right side and although positioned unconventionally, one adapts easily and appreciates the preciseness of the gearbox. The engine's flexibility lives up to its promises and pulls steadfastly in top gear from as low as 20km/h up to effortless cruising at 100km/h. Relax in the cosy seats, surrounded by the sound of silence, you will hardly believe that this car is 65 years old.This is your chance to enjoy the qualities of a classic Bentley and joining the gentlemen club, without paying top money!