Extremely rare Bentley to headline Silverstone Auctions final 2014 sale

(October 22, 2014) BIRMINGHAM, England — An incredibly rare and special 1954 Bentley R Type Continental Fastback, one of just three right-hand drive automatic examples produced, is set to headline Silverstone Auctions’ final sale of the year at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show on Nov. 15 and 16.

The late D Series car, estimated at between £800,000 ($1.29 million) and £900,000 ($1.44 million), is presented in impeccable, close to concours condition having benefitted from major works over the last few years.



Chassis number ‘BC9D’ was ordered on the March 31, 1954, by Alan G Clark. Clearly a discerning customer, Clark specified the car with an automatic gearbox and a number of special features including electric window lifts, flat gas tank, Smiths ventilation and heating system and two RD 8187 Foglamps in place of the standard center lamp. Being the late D Series it also benefits from having the larger 4.9-liter engine.

Like many of these Bentley models, the chassis was produced at the Rolls-Royce factory in Crewe while some 170 miles to the south, the lightweight, aluminum coachwork was being handcrafted by H. J. Mulliner & Co. The current owner has maintained the car to the highest standard regardless of cost.

The car is offered for sale with an extensive history file for major works undertaken to it during the last few years. This includes a full respray in Shell Grey complimented by a mid-blue hide interior and dark blue Wilton carpets.

Commenting on the impressive car, managing director of Silverstone Auctions, Nick Whale, said: “This car is a beautifully styled masterpiece, offering gracious classic motoring with just a hint of modern convenience. It is beautifully presented and testament to the pampered existence it has lived.”

The Bentley joins an eclectic offering at the two-day sale taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, which contains more than 100 classic and modern sports cars and 12 historic motorcycles spanning some 58 years.

The full list of cars on offer can be viewed by clicking here.