1953 Bentley R-Type

This particular R-Type was first registered in 1952 and has clocked up 41,383 miles since new and has also been with the vendor’s family since it was first registered, being passed from generation to generation. We are informed that the vehicle was used sporadically throughout the years and hardly, if ever, left its local haunt.

How it came to be in such a predicament is somewhat of a mystery, as is the case with most barn finds. We are informed that there was a mechanical issue somewhere along the way and it was rolled into the garage to be fixed; what happened after is a tale that only the Bentley owner knows.

Unfortunately, the mystery continues as there seems to be no paperwork, service history or any other paper assets to accompany the vehicle. What we do know is that the car rolled into the garage many decades ago and that is where it has since stayed.

First initial impressions of the Bentley are good, underneath the decades of dust, one can see that there is a well crafted piece of automotive history that is begging to be put back together and driven. Whilst we cannot speak on the overall condition of the paintwork, what we saw, looked to be positive throughout.

The bodywork appears to be in great shape too. The flanks are free from ripples and the panel alignment looks to be straight. All the doors on the Bentley open and close well.

As far as flaws go, there really is nothing to note that we could see other than the odd bit of corrosion, but we suspect this is only surface rust and nothing serious. The paintwork unfortunately we cannot comment on. The front end is relatively free from any notable damage that we could see and the iconic chrome cowling and Bentley ornament which sits atop the grille, although dusty looks as elegant as ever.

There isn’t really much to speak on in this section. As one would expect, the interior has been stripped and now plays home to the front wings. What we could see looks promising. All four doors, structurally, looked to be in really nice condition, the headlining doesn’t show any signs of rips or tears either and the wood that’s behind the dashboard looks as vibrant as it ever did.

Although the interior has been removed, the removed items have been stored elsewhere and from what we saw, look to be in presentable condition. We cannot verify if all the interior parts are present but, from what we saw, it looks to be fairly spot on.

Door cards, wooden dashboard fascia, carpet, floor mats, chrome trim pieces show no obvious signs of damage.

Two front seats are present although stored in different places. The front seat which is located in the Bentley looks to be in really rather nice shape. The seat base has yet to be accounted for though. The other seat, does however, show signs of aging in places.

​The Bentley doesn’t run or start so the mechanical aspect of the vehicle cannot be verified. That having been said, structurally, it appears to be in good shape with only signs of surface rust being present on the main chassis.​

​Purchased from new and been with one family since that time. ​

The 1952 Bentley R-Type is a symbol of post-war luxury, built for those who valued both refinement and driving pleasure. Its blend of power, elegance, and craftsmanship has ensured its place as a sought-after classic car in the Bentley lineup.

If you’re a fan of barn finds and love a puzzle, then you’re onto a winner, perhaps the perfect winter project.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the vendor. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.