1947 Bentley MKVI Special

Registration no. DVH 106 Chassis no. B359BG

Footnotes

The Bentley MKVI is a truly handsome vehicle and was the first post-war production car to be produced by Bentley. The backstory behind the MKVI goes back to 1944 with Rolls-Royce executive W. A. Robotham, who predicted a limited demand for rolling chassis cars with bespoke coach-built bodies following WWII. As a result, he negotiated a deal with the Pressed Steel Company who would produce a luxurious yet purpose-built body. The result was the MKVI, which underpinnings were later used in the Rolls-Royce Wraith and Silver Dawn.

Converted into its 2-seat Special guise by John Anderson in 1990, this 1947 example is powered by the larger 4,866cc straight-six engine. The coachwork is a traditional ash frame and covered in brown fabric. Inside, the car features two brown leather bucket seats to match the exterior, as well as a bench seat. The aluminium dashboard is well stocked with correct gauges. Other features on the car include Lucas headlights, Continental back axle ratio, and a tubular exhaust manifold. It is running and driving well but has not been used since 2019. Following this period of inactivity, recommissioning is recommended prior to returning the car to active use.

Vendor Score Total: 66/100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 17/25
Body Work: 4
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 4
Glass: 3
Paint: 3
Wheels/Tyres: 3

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 12/20
Axles: 3
Brakes: 3
Gearbox/Clutch: 3
Suspension: 3

INTERIOR TOTAL: 13/20
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 3
Headlining: 4
Seats: 3
Trim: 3

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 6/10
Ancillary components: 3
Main components: 3

ENGINE TOTAL: 15/20
Mechanical components: 4
Running: 4
Starting: 4
Under Bonnet: 3

Car History File: 3