Lot 041: 1947 BENTLEY MK VI SALOON

Introduced in 1946, the MKVI was Bentley's first post-war model. Closely based on the 1939 MKV of which only fifteen were built, it featured a massive, cruciform braced frame with independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle. Fitted with a freshly developed 4257cc oise straight six engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, most versions of the MKVI chassis were capable of 100mph. However, as Bentley intended, the majority were clad in its new, 'standard steel saloon' coachwork. A relatively compact design, it nonetheless made for a well appointed, spacious sports saloon that appealed greatly to the important 'owner-driver' market. Finished in black with brown leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (electrical equipment, chassis, wheels / tyres), "good / original" (interior trim) or "excellent" (engine, four-speed manual gearbox, bodywork, paintwork) condition. Reportedly supplied new by Jack Barclay to N.F. Adney Esq of Portalington Road, Bournemouth, 'JLK 491' passed through the hands of B. Madoloff Esq (Bournemouth 1948), W. Beaumount Esq (Rippenden 1949) and Richard Lee Esq (Wetherby 1967) before subsequently being acquired by its previous keeper, B. Alway Esq of Vicarage Road, Bristol. Riding on correct type steel wheels, this smart MKVI is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until August 2008 and historic class (free) road tax valid until July 2008.