1951 Bentley Mark VI H.J. Mulliner Saloon

While the large majority of Mark VI production was earmarked for standard steel bodywork, of the 5,208 manufactured between 1946 and 1952, only 41 were built with H.J. Mulliner ‘lightweight’ saloon bodywork–this includes the auction example.

Bodied in hand-beaten aluminum and priced at £5,105, these lightweights commanded a substantial 40% premium over standard steel models, and today are among the most sought-after and collectible of all Mark VI Bentleys.

The auction car is striking yet appropriately subdued in silver over a deep sea blue, and appears to remain completely intact with all correct trim and brightwork. As noted above, these cars wore hand-beaten aluminum bodywork, and are distinctly more sporting and modern in appearance than their standard steel counterparts as well.

Acquired by Rolls-Royce (contemporary parent company of Bentley) in 1959, H.J. Mulliner would merge with Park Ward two years later. The resultant firm was called Mulliner Park Ward, and served as Rolls’ and Bentley’s in-house coachbuilder prior to shuttering for good in 1998. Today, the name Mulliner survives as Bentley’s special commissions department.

The car’s luxurious and spacious cabin appears to remain similarly intact to its exterior. One very noteworthy feature is the car’s floor-mounted manual gearshift, as well as a retrofitted Stewart-Warner tachometer redlined at a modest 2,800 rpm.

The tach’s headline figure is indicative of the 4.6 liter straight-six’s unhurried nature. While undoubtedly a reliable, smooth, silent, and superbly tractable engine, its 1920’s design roots are reflected in its F-head, or intake-over-exhaust valve configuration–though restrictive at even modest revolutions, this setup was quite effective at producing lots of torque right from idle.

This car is sold with limited historical documentation.

Bentley Mark VI’s are discreet driver’s cars in any form, with direct steering, secure, surprisingly agile handling, and a wonderful ride quality serving up comfort and balance in equal measure. This lightweight example, with its scarcity, handsome styling, and hard-to-find manual transmission, is all the more special.

Estimated $6,000 - $10,000.

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL BIDDERS

It should be noted that this vehicle has been on static display for a number of years and there is no history available beyond that displayed in our photography section.

We have not started or driven the car so cannot vouch for its mechanical viability or functionality. It will require recommissioning prior to road use and is sold ‘as seen’.

Please note that the title for this vehicle is in transit.

Buyers should expect the title within 30 business days following the sale; however, please note that for reasons beyond Bonhams/Market control, including any delays in lien releases by lien holder and/or delays by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) in certain states, there are instances where the Buyer may not receive the title within 30 business days and, in those circumstances, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

If a Lot is rendered “Title in Transit”, it is unlikely that the Buyers will receive the title in the mail within 30 business days following the auction/sale; however, Bonhams/Market will work to provide the titles to the Buyer as soon as possible.

The Buyer acknowledges that delays in transferring titles including, due to delays at government Motor Vehicle departments, happen from time-to-time and, the Buyer will hold both Bonhams/Market and the Consignor harmless from any allegations of damages arising out of government delays.

Please note it is the responsibility of the Buyer to transfer ownership in compliance with their jurisdictional rules and regulations.