Ian Gabriele
Specialist
LOT 163 Ω
1953 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloon Chassis no. B80LTN
Sold for US$52,640 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 163Ω
1953 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloon
1953 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloon
Chassis no. B80LTN
Chassis no. B80LTN
4,566cc F-Head Inline 6-Cylinder
Dual SU Carburetors
128bhp
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Front and Live Rear Axle with Leaf Spring Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*Delivered new to Canada
*Desirable left-drive, automatic transmission
*Documented by copies of its factory build records
*An elegant post-war touring car
THE CAR OFFERED
As the parent company of Bentley, Rolls-Royce's rationalization policy continued to gather momentum in the aftermath of WWII with the significant introduction of standard bodywork on the Bentley Mk VI, Rolls-Royce's first post-war offering. A separate chassis was retained, featuring a new design with independent front suspension, hydraulic front brakes, and a new 4,257cc, F-head six-cylinder power unit. The engine was enlarged to 4,566cc in 1951, and a much-needed improvement to the standard bodywork arrived mid-way through 1952 in the shape of an enlarged boot together with associated alterations to the rear wings and suspension, subsequent models incorporating these changes were now known as the R-Type Bentley (and E-Series Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn).
Completed at Crewe in June 1953, this R-Type Standard Steel Saloon is a rare example originally destined for the Canadian market, rolling out of the factory finished in Tudor Grey over blue hides, equipped with a radio, automatic gearbox, and appropriately for Canada, a second heater with boosted defroster (trapper hat sold separately). Accompanying records show it was retained by Rolls-Royce of Canada, presumably for stock, before being sold to Mr. J.T. Bain of Mt. Royal, Quebec. Subsequent owners are documented on the ownership card, and it appears the R-Type remained in Quebec for nearly its entire life – coming into the care of Mr. David Copeland of Montreal in the 1970s. The car was clearly enjoyed to the fullest, as dealer service records show that as of August of 1971, it had accrued 125,000 miles, and the engine was overhauled with new pistons and rings by Rolls-Royce Montreal, Ltd.
The color was changed at some point from its original Tudor Grey over blue to its current medium green over mottled light green upholstery, which has aged gracefully in the current owner's care, and maintains the R-Type's elegant and inviting character. Please note that following a period of storage, light recommissioning has been undertaken to awaken it, however, additional attention may be required prior to longer drives. The R-Type is renowned for its touring ability, and this cherished example will undoubtedly offer many more miles of driving joy to its next custodian.
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| Ω | Import Duty |
| Lot is subject to US Customs duty or tariff and/or related import fees payable by the buyer as part of the purchase price. Please refer to the Specialist Department managing the auction for details. |
