1949 Bentley MKVI Saloon

The auction car’s rare manual transmission adds to these sporting credentials, and its beautifully considered colors and nicely preserved cosmetics appeal to the eyes.

Though it resembles black at a glance, careful inspection reveals the car is actually a very dark navy blue. Red coach stripes run the length of either side, and are matched by similar detailing on what look like factory wheel trims.

The absence of whitewalls emphasizes the car’s sporting intentions, while its large, upright grille, gleaming Flying B mascot, and trio of massive, jewel-like lights at the nose broadcast the more formal, aristocratic elements of its character.

The car’s front doors open towards the rears, and the rear towards the fronts, meeting in the middle like a handclap. Behind them, pistachio leather pairs beautifully with medium blue carpets, and together the combination strikes a very good balance with the near-black exterior.

As you’d expect of a Bentley, wood veneers abound, not only on the dashboard, pillars, and doors, but also around the large sliding steel sunroof.

Note the 4-speed manual transmission’s steering column-mounted gear shift, as well as the period Blaupunkt radio.

Despite the car’s sporting nature, rear seat passengers have lots of legroom and fold-down wooden picnic tables, and though ride quality can be adjusted from “hard” to “soft” by a lever on the steering wheel’s hub, these cars are known to really smooth out a rough road regardless, and without the floaty, disconnected feeling typical to large luxury vehicles.

The 4 ¼ liter straight-six is an unusual F-head design featuring overhead intake valves and in-block exhaust valves, a design noted for its smoothness, torque-rich delivery, and silent running.

The car is sold with limited documentation.

A large wheel nut wrench and manual starting handle (both likely original) reside in the trunk, along with an early 1970’s vintage “page alert” alarm system, complete with an eight-track sized, vinyl wood grain pager.

Note the French language chassis tag, strongly suggesting this car was originally delivered to France.

This is a discreet driver’s car, but that doesn’t mean the family won’t appreciate its many passenger-focused charms. Colors are often a strong suit for vintage Bentleys and Rollers, but this one’s really can’t be beat–its rare manual gearbox is just icing on the big, luxurious cake.

Estimated $10,000 - $20,000.

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.