1953 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback - Hexagon Classics

For sale by Hexagon Classics: http://www.hexagonclassics.com/car_sa...

Right Hand Drive: Manual Gearbox: UK Supplied

The "R"-Type was the epitome of British luxury in the 1950s and the first car to carry the Continental nameplate. Despite having a uniform style, each car was unique in detail and specification. Unlike almost every car of the period, the Continental had an all-aluminum body. The Continental model was produced specially for continental Europe, with many coach built by H.J. Mulliner; this model would be the first appearance of the famed “Continental” name.


It is difficult to put into words the gulf that separates a Continental from the average motor car of the 1950’s “The Bentley Continental is the equal of modern racing cars, and superior to some” wrote Raymond Mays in The Autocar, 2nd October 1953.They also described the car as “A new stage in the evolution of the post-war Bentley”
The magnificent Continental sports saloon has been synonymous with effortless high speed cruising in the grand manner since its introduction in 1952. Of all-welded construction, the latter enabled the incorporation of a much-needed improvement to Rolls-Royce's standard bodywork in the shape of an enlarged boot together with associated changes to rear wings and suspension. The standard R-Type was a lively performer, achieving 106mph in silence and reaching 50mph from standstill in 10 seconds despite a kerb weight approaching two tons.

The Continental raised this already superlative combination of high performance and exceptional refinement to hitherto unattained levels. Unlike the ordinary 'standard steel' "R"-Type, the Continental was bodied in the traditional manner and first appeared with what many enthusiasts consider to be the model's definitive style of coachwork - the lightweight, aluminium, wind tunnel-developed fastback of H J Mulliner. In developing the Continental, Bentley Motors made every effort to keep its weight to the minimum, knowing that this was the most effective way to achieve the maximum possible performance.

The cars performance figures would have been considered excellent for an out-and-out sports car but for a full four / five seater saloon they were exceptional: a top speed of 120mph, 100mph achievable in third gear, 50mph reached in a little over 9 seconds and effortless cruising at over 100mph.

Built originally for export only; the Continental was, once delivery charges and local taxes had been paid, almost certainly the most expensive car in the world as well as the fastest capable of carrying four adults and their luggage. “The Bentley is a modern magic carpet which annihilates great distances and delivers the occupants well-nigh as fresh as when they started “concluded Autocar.
Our car B.C20.C was supplied by Chas. Atwood Ltd to Mr B.P Jenks whom commissioned the car to be built to the following specification;

Exterior: Masons Black
Interior: Burgundy Hide (VM 3086)
Seats: Lightweight
Gearbox: Manual


The Continental "R" is presented today as per its original works instruction sheet that accompanied the car when completed by the H J Mulliner workshops at Bedford Park, Chiswick, London W4 on the 18th December 1953.

On Hexagon Classics acquisition, we commenced a comprehensive restoration of the Bentley which comprised of:
Complete Mechanical overhaul
Bare metal repaint in factory original colours
Complete Re – trim using correct factory specification Connolly hides - VM3086 Burgundy
New Wilton carpeting throughout
New West of England Cloth Headlining
Complete refurbishment of all wood veneers


Accompanying the motorcar is a very comprehensive historical file that includes:
Original Continental Sports Saloon Handbook
Original Continental Service Handbook
Manufacturers Car / Chassis Specification – Works Instructions
Manufacturers Wiring Diagram
Manufacturers Parts Listings
Manufacturers Detailed Technical Drawings
Previous Owners Detailed Vehicle Log from 1971
Comprehensive Historical Maintenance invoices from October 1970
Previous Owners RAF Car File dated April 1969

We are proud to offer for sale this magnificent "R" Type Continental Fastback with its highly desirable original manufacturer’s specification - manual transmission - lightweight seats and factory original paint & upholstery.

A unique opportunity to acquire one of the most collectable motor cars of all time.