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UK V5
See UK Registration/Import Status Guide in catalogue.

Bentley’s 1952 introduction of its R-Type Continental startled the automotive world with an unmatched combination of performance, comfort, luxury, and design. It was the fastest four-passenger automobile in the world, as well as the most expensive, with exclusivity further enhanced by a limited production run that ended in 1955 with just 208 R-Type Continentals completed. Targeted for automotive enthusiasts and wealthy connoisseurs with an appreciation for the finest, original owners included Briggs Cunningham, André Embiricos, and Aristotle Onassis.

Performance objectives for the R-Type Continental were skillfully executed through the efforts of chief project engineer Ivan Evernden and the Experimental Division. Drawing on Bentley’s racing heritage and, in particular, the success of the Embiricos Bentley which raced three times at Le Mans, weight savings were achieved through the use of aluminum body panels, seat frames, bumpers, and window frames. Mechanical upgrades included a higher compression ratio for the venerable inline six-cylinder engine and a taller rear-end gear ratio enabling high-speed touring with reduced engine revs.

This car, chassis BC30C, is one of 190 fitted with H.J. Mulliner’s timeless fastback coachwork to design no. 7277. In addition to Mulliner’s expertise in lightweight body construction, the tasteful incorporation of a lowered radiator shell and steering column allowed for reduced frontal exposure with additional aerodynamic benefits gained from the fastback design, which was wind tunnel tested. Remarkably, this unwavering emphasis on performance, weight reduction, and aerodynamics in no way detracted from traditional Bentley virtues of driving ease, comfort, and luxury, resulting in the pinnacle of grand touring style. In its September 1952 road test of an R-Type Continental, Autocar concluded that it “annihilates great distances,” an apt summation of “a car Britain may be well proud of.”

Chassis BC30C came off test on February 26, 1954, and was delivered new 12 days later to Thomas Harvey Simmonds of England through Bristol Motors. A manual gearbox, right-hand-drive example, BC30C was built midway through the Continental production run, benefiting from the improved all-welded frame. Fitted with Mulliner body no. 5643, it was finished in Oxford Blue with light beige hides and carpets, equipped with a radio, manual aerial, and storage recesses in both front doors. According to the consignor, the R-Type received the typical factory 4.9-litre engine upgrade at some point in its history. According to registry entries, it passed through three British owners before acquisition in 1959 by F.H. Wrigley, who retained the car until 1980. Its next owner was Harvey Greenfield, who imported the car to the US where it was used sparingly in New York over the next 19 years. Its current owner acquired the Bentley in 2004 and returned it to England, where its restoration was entrusted to the noted Graeme Hunt Ltd. of London. Over the next two years, it was carefully restored in its original colors, which it carries today.

Discreet comfort and convenience enhancements incorporated during restoration include in-dashboard air-conditioning, with air channeled through period-style vents fitted in the walnut fascia, and electric window lifts were sourced from a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. Lightweight, bucket-style front seats have been installed, and its original seats accompany the car. The svelte fastback design is enhanced by rear-wheel spats which contribute to a perfectly proportioned visual presentation, and the lower chrome body trim is accentuated by the addition of chrome moldings on the lower edge of the spats featuring Mavroleon wavelets.

Chassis BC30C has toured throughout Europe and Scotland under its current long-term ownership, covering 15,000 miles in grand style. It recently benefited from a £7,000 servicing in preparation for future touring.

Revered upon its introduction, the R-Type Continental established new benchmarks of performance, comfort, beauty, and exclusivity – and appreciation of this rare model has steadily increased over the past 70 years. Carefully restored, maintained, and enjoyed by its current owner, the many virtues of BC30C are waiting to be realized by its next discerning caretaker.