1953 Bentley R Type - 1953 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback by H.J.Mulliner & Co

For sale - This is a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of automotive history: the very first of the CC series Bentley Continentals. Chassis number BCC1, body number 5564, is a vehicle of immense significance, representing the pinnacle of 1950s British engineering and luxury.

The First of Its Kind

Produced by H.J. Mulliner in the iconic "Fastback" design style (7277), this car is one of only 193 ever built. Originally commissioned for S.E. Sears, this vehicle holds special historical weight as the lead of the CC series—a production run primarily intended for the export market. Today, with only 108 examples remaining in the UK, this car stands as a remarkably preserved survivor. In 1953, with a staggering price tag of £7,608, it was officially the most expensive production car in the world.

Engineering Excellence

The design 7277 was a pioneer, being the first post-war model to undergo rigorous wind-tunnel testing. Under the guidance of chief design engineer John Blatchley, the car’s silhouette was sculpted for high-speed stability. The entire body, including the window and screen frames, was crafted from lightweight aluminium, demonstrating a relentless commitment to performance that remains impressive to this day.

Exceptional Specification

This example remains in a state of remarkable preservation, featuring its original Brown Connolly leather interior from 1953, paired with a stunning Pewter exterior. It is equipped with a suite of unique special-order options that distinguish it from its peers:

* Performance & Utility: Four-speed manual transmission, Tapley performance meter, and a rare Spitfire Altimeter.

* Original lightweight seats and leather

* Factory manual

* 4.9 litre engine, balanced crankshaft

* Distinctive Styling: 2 ½-inch higher radiator shell,

* Wheel spats

* Sunroof

* RAF day clock

* Lightweight bumpers

* Lighting: Four telescopic headlamps

Provenance

This vehicle comes with a complete, unbroken record of ownership spanning from 1953 to 2026.

1. 1953–1960: Mr. S.E. Sears (UK) ex-President of Veteran Car Club, the Rolls-Royce twenty Ghost Club and Commitee member of the Royal Automobile Club

2. 1960–1965: Mr. R.P. Lovell (UK)

3. 1965–2001: Mr. J. Fothergill (UK)

4. 2001–2002: Mr. G. Dodds (UK)

5. 2002–2006: Mr. W. Ainscough (UK)

6. 2006–2008: Private Collection

7. 2008–2024: Private Collection

8. 2024–Present: Current Ownership

Opportunities to acquire a vehicle of such pedigree, documented history, and exceptional condition are exceedingly rare. This Bentley Continental is not merely a car, but a significant artifact of automotive design.

Every vehicle undergoes a rigorous inspection and full service prior to delivery, and is supplied with a 12-month MOT. We offer complimentary UK-wide delivery and can arrange worldwide shipping at an additional cost; our extensive network of global partners ensures a seamless and effortless buying experience.

Defining the absolute standard: Traditional values, modern perspective.