Description
H&H Classic Auction @ The Imperial War Museum, Duxford/ Cambridgeshire
9th October, 2024 13:00
1949 Bentley MkVI Saloon
Former BDC Concours d'Elegance entrant
Estimate
£28, 000 - £35, 000
Registration No: 208 UXF
Chassis No: B332FV
MOT: Exempt
The subject of an extensive and high quality past restoration
A 'cut above' the majority of surviving MkVI Saloons and worthy of close inspection
Notably good body, paint and chromework plus much of its original interior
Previous engine overhaul by a leading RR&B Specialist Association Member
Introduced in 1946, the MKVI was Bentley's first post-war model. Built around a massive cruciform-braced chassis with independent front suspension and a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle, it was fitted with a freshly developed 4257cc OISE straight-six engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox. Capable of over 100mph when clad in the factory's understated but stylish 'standard steel saloon' coachwork, the MKVI quickly developed a reputation for being a refined yet responsive drive.
No ordinary MKVI, chassis B332FV was for many years the property of a classic car restorer who specialised in post-WW2 Bentleys. Refurbished to award winning condition as a calling card for his business and proudly exhibited at the 2016 Bentley Drivers’ Club’s Concours d’Elegance, the four-seater remains extremely presentable. The front seats have been partially retrimmed but the rest of the interior appears pleasingly original with leather bound carpets and the correct matt finish to the wood veneers etc. Indeed, the seller considers ‘208 UXF’ to represent ‘originality at its finest’. Starting readily and running well during our visit having had a major engine overhaul circa fifteen years ago, the MKVI has been enjoyed for a variety of journeys this year including a 200-mile plus round trip to Silverstone. The sunroof is operational and most of the original tools present. Proudly featured on the restorer’s website and Facebook page, there is even a video of the Bentley in motion on YouTube (https:// www. youtube. com/ watch?v=x8uyN9SKg8U). Built in 1949 but not registered until January 1950 when it was bought new by a Kings Lynn-based solicitor, the Sports Saloon subsequently belonged to Major-General Sir Allan Henry Shafto Adair, 6th Baronet, GCVO, CB, DSO, MC & Bar, JP, DL; a hero of both World Wars. Off the road for a time, the four-seater was re-registered with the DVLA during 1979 sporting the number plate ‘GVF 1’ for several decades. Treated to a renovation which would far, far exceed the guide price if carried out today, ‘208 UXF’ is worthy of close inspection.
