Description
The 1949 Bentley Speed 8 (Tribute) is a stunning re-creation by Racing Green Engineering in the UK. Fully rebuilt from the ground up, every nut and bolt has been meticulously restored to the highest standards. This masterpiece took two years to complete (2018–2020) and has been professionally engineered and certified by Cartech Professional Engineer (VASS).
1949 Bentley Speed 8 (Tribute) A Masterpiece by Racing Green Engineering
Crafted with extraordinary precision by Racing Green Engineering in Wales, UK, this stunning Speed 8 Bentley tribute is built on a 1949 Bentley Mark VI chassis—an exquisite example of automotive artistry.
Power & Performance
Under the bonnet lies a legendary Rolls-Royce B80 straight-eight engine (5, 675cc, 162hp @ 3, 750rpm, 282 ft-lbs torque @ 1, 750rpm), a powerhouse known for its use in military vehicles, fire engines, and even the formidable Saracen tanks. The B80 engine has a special history with Bentley, having powered the wartime ‘Scalded Cat’ a Mark V Bentley so impressive that HRH Prince Philip was reportedly reluctant to return it!
This particular B80 engine (No. 23903) stored in its crate, untouched was restored by the British Ministry of Defence in 1981. Rediscovered in Adelaide and painstakingly restored by Simon Elliot’s Derby Works in Glen Waverley. After 37 years in hibernation, it was completely stripped and rebuilt to perfection. Equipped with four SU carburettors, it now idles effortlessly at 500 rpm—an incredible testament to the craftsmanship behind its restoration.
A Journey Across Continents
The foundation of this masterpiece, a 1949 Bentley Mark VI (Chassis B197EW), was originally delivered to Whittaker/ Deakin Silversmiths in London. The car later found its way to San Francisco, shipped to Australia where its Mulliner body and engine were removed and sold off for a Mark VI restoration in Western Victoria. The rolling chassis and transmission made their way to Wales, UK, where Racing Green Engineering undertook the ambitious task of reimagining it as a Speed 8.
To meet Australian specifications, the car underwent further refinements upon its return. The copper brake lines were upgraded to Cunifer copper-alloy for enhanced durability, while tail lights were repositioned for compliance. With no asbestos used in its new ash-framed, aluminium-clad body or rebuilt engine, brakes or insulation, the car was engineered to the highest standards.
In January 2020, the Bentley successfully passed its Vehicle Inspection and Compliance (Cartech, VASS) and was fully registered in Victoria. Just a month later, it made its debut at the prestigious RACV British & European Motor Show, where it was awarded the coveted "Car of the Show" title.
A Timeless Classic
Unfortunately, the pandemic halted plans for long-distance rallies, leaving this remarkable car with less than 2, 000 miles on the clock since it’s rebuild. As a result, it remains in pristine, near-new condition—turning heads wherever it goes and bringing smiles to all who see it.
Built to Racing Green’s ‘rally specification’ with a reinforced chassis, it is surprisingly easy to drive once accustomed to its grand proportions. The Bentley offers a unique driving experience with no power steering, a mix of hydraulic and mechanical brakes, an external gear shift, and a non-synchro first gear. While it may lack modern luxuries like Bluetooth or Sat Nav, it compensates with heated leather seats, hidden USB ports, hand choke and throttle controls, an auxiliary electric fan, and even a classic Klaxon horn. The windshield wipers are delightfully ineffective, and the convertible hood requires a bit of practice to operate—all part of the charm of owning such a distinctive classic. A truly spectacular, reliable classic, perfect for both showcasing, cruising or global rallies.
In many ways, this model is more than just a car; its a symbol of automotive history and the raw power and freedom associated with the classic car era. making it a timeless piece of automotive culture. It comes with an incredibly well documented file covering the build by Racing Green, the engine rebuild by Derby Works, the assembly by Vintage Racing Green, Import Approvals into Australia and Certification
Worth every cent for only AUD$499, 990. [Approximately US$305, 000, £250, 000, €300, 000]+ Shipping
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