1953 Bentley R-Type Drophead Coupe / B9T0 Chassis Information

Sold for $176,000 at 2014 RM Auctions - Automobiles of Arizona.
When World War II came to a close, Rolls-Royce transferred production of its motor cars from Derby to its wartime aero-engine facility at Crewe. For the first time in the company's history, they built complete cars rather than just the chassis.

The first Bentley model to emerge after the war was the Mark VI, a virtual duplicate (sans radiator shell) of its sister, the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn. The bodies were styled by the company's own designers, with ex-Gurney Nutting Chief Designer John Blatchley adding refinement. With the standardized bodies, the work could be completed in greater numbers at its new factory in Crewe, England. Bentley and Rolls-Royce continued to offer custom coachwork at the owner's discretion.

In 1951, the engine capacity was increased to 4,566 cubic centimeters. The standard saloon body was revised with a longer boot in 1952. At the same time, chassis numbering had reached the R series, causing this model to become known as the R-Type in late-1952. At this time, an optional automatic transmission with twin SU carburetors also became available. In total, there were 2,325 R-Types were produced through 1955.

This Bentley R-Type Drophead Coupe by Park Ward was delivered new to Mr. George Dawson in October of 1953. It is believed to be one of just six right-hand drive models built. The car is finished in Black Cherry exterior with a biscuit leather interior.

The current owner acquired the car several years ago and has displayed it at several events, winning a First in Class at a Rolls-Royce Owners' Club National Meet, the Jack Frost Ladies' Choice Trophy for Most Outstanding Car, and First Place at the 2013 Queen's English All-British Car Show at Woodley Park, as well as Best Coachbuilt Car.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2014