Description
The Bentley MkVI has long been used as the basis for any number of exciting specials, cars that have proved themselves on circuits and in endurance events alike, continuing the competition success on which the marque’s enduring reputation was built.
Launched in 1946, it fell into the ‘reassuringly expensive’ category – by the early 1950s, it cost roughly three times as much as a Jaguar MkVII – and was initially powered by a 4257cc straight-six engine. In 1951, a ‘big bore’ version of the engine was introduced that raised capacity to 4566cc.
The car being offered for sale here is based on a 1951 Bentley MkVI – chassis number B136NZ – and therefore features the larger version of the straight-six. It was built to its current configuration during the early 1980s at Roger Porter’s works, and the process took two years in total. Its chassis was shortened by nine inches and a Harry Rose body was fitted, evoking the famous Bentley Le Mans racers of the 1920s.
The engine features an ‘S-type’ head with triple SU carburettors, while cooling is taken care of by twin fans and a radiator that’s been fitted with a thicker core. The suspension has been lowered, a stainless-steel exhaust system installed, and a long-range 82-litre fuel tank has been fitted.
The gearbox is an all-synchromesh four-speed manual, and the braking system has been upgraded thanks to the use of front discs. The rear axle, meanwhile, features a Continental-spec rear-axle ratio of 3. 077:1.
The current owner of the Bentley has enjoyed it on numerous international trips. The first of those was in 2014 with the Bentley Drivers’ Club and included a visit to Le Mans as part of a run down through France.
The following year, the car – which is known as the Porter Keen Special but is affectionately nicknamed ‘The Toad’ – was shipped across the world so that it could take part in the Great Australian Drive. This event started at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and ran all the way up the east coast, via Brisbane, to Port Douglas. Then, in 2016, it successfully took part in the Spice Road Classic, which took entrants through Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar.
Thanks to its combination of robust mechanical components, generous ground clearance and a sporting, lightweight body, this Bentley special is offered for sale as a charismatic and unique choice of historic endurance rally car.
The car is currently with Rally Preparation Services sister Company, the RPS storage facility and available for inspection. All viewings and test drives welcomed through direct contact with Rally Preparation Services.
All viewings and test drives welcomed by appointment at Rally Preparation Services.
All enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
