LOT 45
1952 Bentley Mark VI Standard Steel Saloon Chassis no. B21LNY
Estimate: US$25,000 - US$35,000Lot to be sold without reserve
Lot 45
Desirable left-hand-drive example with big bore engine
1952 Bentley Mark VI Standard Steel Saloon
1952 Bentley Mark VI Standard Steel Saloon
1952 Bentley Mark VI Standard Steel Saloon
Chassis no. B21LNY
Chassis no. B21LNY
4,566cc F-Head Inline 6-Cylinder
Single Carburetor
128bhp
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Front and Live Rear Axle with Leaf Spring Rear Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
* Desirable left-hand-drive example with big bore engine
* A very tidy example, well-presented interior and exterior
* Optioned with an automatic transmission
* Finished in a lovely dark blue over gray leather with blue carpeting
* An elegant post-war touring car
THE BENTLEY MK VI
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).
The Mk VI four-door standard steel sports saloon was the first post-war luxury car from Bentley. Announced in May 1946 and produced from 1946 to 1952 this very expensive car was a big success for the company. It was also the first car from Rolls-Royce with all-steel coachwork and the first car to be completely assembled and finished at their factory. The decision to offer a complete car with 'in house' bodywork had been dictated by harsh economic reality and 'export or die' was the mantra of British industry in the post-war period. Arguably, the person most responsible for this vital incursion into foreign automobile markets was Government Minister Sir Stafford Cripps, who told British car manufacturers that unless they could guarantee to export 30% (soon rising to 50%) of their products, the government would refuse to supply them with steel. Despite the misgivings of traditionalists, exports rose steadily and, when the home market stabilized, the classically styled 'standard steel' bodywork proved to be entirely acceptable to most potential buyers, making up 80% of total production of this first post-war Bentley. The Mk Vl used the same six-cylinder B60 4 ¼-liter'F-head' straight-six engine as the pre-war Mk V.
THE CAR OFFERED
This lovely Mark VI is finished in a well presented dark blue while the interior is trimmed in gray leather and blue carpeting. The exterior presents quite nicely while the interior and wood condition is tidy. The car is optioned with an automatic transmission and fitted with an under dash 'Stereo 48' 8-track player. The seller reports that this Bentley is in good running order. The Mark VI is renowned for its touring ability, comfort as well as elegance and this cherished example will undoubtedly offer many more miles of driving joy to its next custodian.
Saleroom notices
Lot has been withdrawn.
Additional information
Auction Viewings
- 30 May 2026, 09:00 - 17:00 EDT
- 31 May 2026, 08:30 - 10:00 EDT
