Lot 25: Bentley MK VI SALOON BY H J MULLINER

Following the end of World War II and a period of intensive manufacture of aero engines, Rolls Royce Motors were to relocate their motor car division to Crewe. At a difficult time for prestige car production and with a desperate need for exports, the Bentley Mk VI, introduced in May 1946, was to prove very much the right car for its time. The 120-inch wheelbase chassis utilised independent front suspension by coil springs and wishbones, whilst the braking system was of the hydro-mechanical type. The 4�-litre engine was of basically pre-war design but the most unusual feature of this model was the fitment of a pressed steel body at the factory whereas previous Rolls Royce and Bentley motor cars had always been supplied in chassis form, to be fitted with owner's choice of coachwork. The standard saloon body was by Pressed Steel Ltd and of compact appearance, which appealed greatly to the lucrative North American market where there was a strong demand for an 'owner-driver' type of Bentley.Although this type of coachwork was very much the norm, a number of chassis, however, were fitted with coachbuilt alternative styles and it is an H J Mulliner-bodied saloon we offer here, dating from 1947 and finished in black with brown hide upholstery. Imported from the USA immediately prior to acquisition by its current custodian in 1991, the car then underwent extensive refurbishment which included a bare metal repaint, renewal of the boot floor and much mechanical work including an engine rebuild during 1992. To original specification, the car is of smart appearance and all mechanical components are reported to be in good condition with no known faults apparent. The car is understood to drive very well and the documentation provided includes a copy of the chassis card, V5 registration document and a recently renewed MOT certificate. Various bills etc. are supplied together with a number of photographs of the restoration work in progress. The car has resided in a warm motor house and has been used sparingly but is now reluctantly offered for sale as space is required for further projects.