Description

1953 Bentley R Type Lightweight Saloon by H.J Mulliner finished in Shell over Tudor grey with Grey hide interior piped Red. These all-aluminium lightweight sports saloons were build by H.J. Mulliner to be a faster, more exclusive, driver focused Bentley. At a two thousand pounds premium over the standard steel, just 41 of these aluminium 'Lightweights' were built. Chassis number B326SR was ordered by Sir Harold Bowden with many special features to include; Recesses in rear doors with hinged lids, Recesses to front doors with locking sliding shutters, Cigar boxes in front door armrests, Notepad and mirror in centre armrest, a thief proof radiator cap, Special bumpers, Sliding table under cubby hole, Special stop and tail lights, 2 fog lamps and a glass panelled sunshine roof with blind (this feature was only fitted to 2 of the 41 cars produced). This example also features a factory fitted Continental rear axle which makes it perfect for motorway touring, coupled with the Aluminium bodywork, duel exhaust pipes and manual transmission, this R Type is very sprightly. Having had just 4 former keepers this extraordinarily original example has clearly been exceedingly well kept throughout its life, recent work has included a complete rear suspension overhaul, replacement of all necessary rubbers and a new clutch. The elegant coachwork is in excellent condition as is the chrome work. The interior is equally fine, trimmed in the original Grey hide with deep Red piping. The glass roof makes a fantastic feature and brings plenty of light into the cabin which can be covered with the slide out blind. New period seatbelts have been fitted to the front and rear seats which compliments the interior nicely. The carpeted boot holds the spare wheel as well as the large and small tools which are all present, hidden in a recess in the boot floor. Offered with an impressive history file including many invoices for works carried out by marque specialists as well as copies of the original Bentley build records and drivers handbook. This is a wonderful example of this rare classic with many one off features, a perfect car for touring and showing.