1954 Bentley R-Type Continental

1954 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback.

Chassis number: BC70C

Registration Number: MCX452

Delivered new in May 1954 to one J Hanson Esq., chassis number 'BC70C' is one of just 208 R-Type Continentals produced, passing to George Rhodes in the 1960's. The car was in the same family ownership until 3 years ago. It was maintained by George Rhodes & Sons Limited who have traded in the family's hometown since 1925. Early job cards being included in the history file along with various bills, a large quantity of expired MOT certificates and an original Bentley Continental handbook. George believed that cars should be used, driving BC70C on a regular basis locally coupled with trips to London and golfing trips to France, echoing the original design brief. The automatic gear box making the car a pleasure to drive.

The Bentley took part in the R-Type Celebration in 2002 at Silverstone, where the Rajmata of Jaipur presented George with a special award at the British Racing Drivers Club lunch for owning his Continental for the longest time.

Purchased three years ago by the current owner, the car was sent off for a nut & bolt restoration with the brief to make the car as close to new as possible. Accordingly a massive vastly expensive bodily & mechanical restoration was undertaken over several years to put the car into the stunning condition we find it in today.

The car is finished in Velvet Green paint with pale green hides to the interior along with green Wilton carpets. It was specified when new with the rare option of sundym glass all round which really suits the car in its dark green livery. All woodwork has of course been removed & refinished to the highest standards. Assorted old bills & MOT certificates come with the car backing up the indicated mileage of 96,669 miles at the time of writing.

Perfection needs but few words.