Highlights
- Only three previous keepers
- HJ Mulliner coach built
- Owned by Celebrity George Formby
The Appeal
An opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. Bentley's first post-war luxury car, 70 years since it left the factory. This four-door HJ Mulliner coach built icon is in fair order but a little time and love will restore its glory.
The Bentley’s story started with celeb ownership but is now ready for its next chapter.
The Bentley’s story started with celeb ownership but is now ready for its next chapter.
The History and Paperwork
- Registered in November 1950 by retailer Jack Barclay Ltd to Beryl Formby, partner of George Formby.
- 40 years in their possession before being sold on in 1992 where it then spent a decade near the Cornish coast.
- From Cornwall the car spent a few years in Devon, where it currently resides in a barn as part of an enthusiasts collection.
- MOT Exempt.
- Past MOT certificates.
- Invoices present for work carried out in 1992, 1999, 2011 and 2013.
- Valid V5c.
- Copy of original factory order/build.
The Interior
- Factory interior
- Original leather seats
- Well kept wooden dash and trims
The car's interior is a mix of mid blue leather and darker blue/purple carpet which matches the exterior nicely. Its seats show signs of age but a few wrinkles are quite common when you get over 70 years of age.
The floor and carpet appear to be solid and in nice condition however. A wooden dash, door trims and rear fold down picnic tables are all in fine order.
The floor and carpet appear to be solid and in nice condition however. A wooden dash, door trims and rear fold down picnic tables are all in fine order.
The Exterior
- Two colour paint design
- Rear suicide door
- Minor blemishes are present and pictured
Finished in blue and silver the overall condition of the car is good though there are signs of its age starting to creep through. All exterior trims and chromework are in fair condition too, with nothing obvious missing or damaged. These post war Bentleys are fabulous cars to look at, you can’t help but appreciate the design and build of these beautifully crafted machines.
The Mechanics
- Started & manoeuvred without issue
- 4257cc Inline 6
- Service less than 1,500 miles ago
- Recent water pump + belt
The vehicles had no issue firing up on our visit and was manoeuvred a couple times without fuss. There’s documentation confirming a 5,000 & 10,000 mile service amongst other works in the last few thousand miles.
The inline-six petrol engine ticks over sweetly and confidently, it's a soft, gentle noise which is a subtle pairing for a car focused around comfort and luxury.
The inline-six petrol engine ticks over sweetly and confidently, it's a soft, gentle noise which is a subtle pairing for a car focused around comfort and luxury.
Summary
Use it as it is or pour your heart into her, either way this old girl is ready for her next lease of life. A rare opportunity to own a wonderful piece of automotive history.
Notice to bidders
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.
