Capable of over 100mph when clad in the factory’s understated but stylish ‘standard steel saloon’ coachwork, the MKVI quickly developed a reputation for being a refined yet responsive drive.
Mechanically, the Mark VI shared a good deal in common with the aborted pre-war Mark V, including independent front suspension on a sturdy chassis, a 4-speed gearbox, and a refined 4.25-litre inline-six.
The current owner bought this Mark VI in 1989 when it had done 42,061 miles and had substantial works done in 1988 including a new engine, a new clutch, rebuilt carburettors and various other bearings, pipes and brake linings.
Soon after purchase the car was treated to a two-tone re-spray in Rolls Royce colours of Seychelles Blue and Shell Grey. The carpets were replaced and interior retrimmed in early 1990 with new leather seat covers in blue with cream piping.
Since that time the car has lived in a heated garage with all routine servicing, as per the service instructions supplied in the workshop manual, being done personally. Other than the usual consumables nothing has required any major work or attention throughout his ownership.
The car has been used on extended continental tours and taken to Bentley owner’s meetings and shows during his ownership, covering a documented 42,000 miles, always performing faultlessly, with great style and in tremendous comfort.
The V5 shows 1 previous keeper and the car is registered as an Historic Vehicle. Previous recorded keepers are unknown but the owner believes that he is probably the 8th owner, knowing several of the previous owners in South Wales personally.
The car comes with an original owner’s handbook, workshop and service manual together with an extensive history file, which includes receipts and MOTs through the years.
There are 2 sets of keys, a nearly complete original toolkit, spare wheel and jack.
The Interior has been kept as original as possible. Overall the interior is in excellent condition with only a few signs of age induced patina that add to the air of luxury and comfort that come as standard.
There is a sunroof and fabulous picnic tables in the rear along with some beautiful fixtures and fittings that remind you of the heritage and standing of such a luxury tourer from the late 1940’s. The door cards, wooden trim and headlining are all in great shape too.
The lovely wooden dashboard has a few marks here and there and some of the chrome fittings have started to pit, and there is a single small scratch in the leather on the rear seats. Other than these minor imperfections the interior looks fabulous, and based on a short journey as a passenger, is a very comfortable place to be.
The current owner has added an electric Kenlowe fan to keep things cool in modern traffic though he has never had cause to actually use it.
Finished in two-tone colours of Seychelles Blue and Shell Grey the Bentley exudes class and style, its original chrome fittings showing the odd sign of age here and there but generally all being in very good condition.
The original wheels and hubcaps all still look in great condition and all have had radial tyres fitted, rather than cross-ply, to improve the ride.
There are a few rust bubbles on the wheel arches and around the bottom of the doors and there is a scratch in the paint on the offside rear wheel arch and the odd chip in the paintwork when you look more closely.
The door handles show signs of pitting and the seals on the front quarter-light windows have perished but none of these small details detract from the overall look and quality feel of this very well turned-out classic Bentley.
Since purchasing the car, all regular servicing, maintenance and lubrication has been carried out by the current owner, this being one of the last Bentleys that owners could actually work on and maintain themselves rather than having to resort to Bentley dealership prices.
The engine bay is all original and shows its age probably more than the rest of the car. There is no evidence of oil leakages and everything is reported to work and function correctly.
This is a very nice unmodified, unrestored original example of a classic Bentley model that defines luxury motoring in the post WW2 period.
Easy to work on and maintain, it would suit someone’s collection or would happily continue to eat up the miles in complete comfort and style.
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Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1948 Bentley Mk VI
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