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Incredibly rare Bentley headlines NEC sale

22nd October 2014 Print
1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback

An incredibly rare and special 1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback, one of just three right-hand drive automatic examples produced, is set to headline Silverstone Auctions’ final sale of the year at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show on the 15th and 16th of November.

The late D Series car, estimated at between £800,000 and £900,000, is presented in impeccable, close to concours condition having benefitted from major works over the last few years.

Chassis number ‘BC9D’ was ordered on the 31st March 1954 by Mr. Alan G Clark. Clearly a discerning customer, Mr. Clark specified the car with an automatic gearbox and a number of special features including electric window lifts, flat petrol tank, Smiths ventilation and heating system and two RD 8187 Foglamps in place of the standard centre lamp. Being the late D Series it also benefits from having the larger 4.9-litre engine.

Like many of these Bentley models, the chassis was produced at the Rolls-Royce factory in Crewe while some 170 miles to the south, the lightweight, aluminium coachwork was being handcrafted by H. J. Mulliner & Co. The current owner has maintained the car to the highest standard regardless of cost.

The car is offered for sale with an extensive history file for major works undertaken to it during the last few years. This includes a full respray in Shell Grey complimented by a mid-blue hide interior and dark blue Wilton carpets.

Commenting on the impressive car, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “This car is a beautifully styled masterpiece, offering gracious classic motoring with just a hint of modern convenience. It is beautifully presented and testament to the pampered existence it has lived.”

The Bentley joins an eclectic offering at the two-day sale taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, which contains more than 100 classic and modern sports cars and 12 historic motorcycles spanning some 58 years.

The full list of cars on offer can be viewed at silverstoneauctions.com.

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1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback