1949 BENTLEY MK VI 'SPECIAL SPEED 8'

KEY FACTS

• A handsome coach-built homage to the iconic Bentley specials of the early ‘30s, based on the robust Bentley Mk VI chassis.
• Under the bonnet is a 5.7-litre straight-eight engine with quad SU carburettors, dry sump lubrication and a remote oil filler, coupled to a four-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels.
• The original 6.5-litre Speed Six was known to be W.O. Bentley’s favourite car and had notable success with the famous ‘Bentley Boys’. This Speed 8 is an uprated tribute to that model.
• This Bentley was converted by Racing Green Engineering to ‘Special Speed 8’ specification between 2016 and 2017, including a full nut-and-bolt restoration, and is now offered for sale by its first owner since the work was completed.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• Built on a modified 1949 Bentley Mk VI chassis, Racing Green Engineering fitted a new ash and aluminium body to the car, as well as replacement trim, paintwork, electrics and brightwork in order to create this unique homage.
• The car is finished in black over a dark red Connolly-trimmed leather interior, with a folding front windscreen, hood tonneau cover and hood bag.
• A B-Series B80 engine was fitted, which displaces 5,675cc and features a dry-sump lubrication system as well as a remote oil filler.
• A straight-through stainless steel exhaust system has been fitted, as well as a pressurised cooling system, upgraded front and rear road springs, and servo-assisted braking system.
• A modern 12-volt negative earth electrical system has been installed, which includes not only modern conveniences such as an alternator, but also discreetly incorporated heated front seats and direction indicators.
• The car is accompanied by both German and original British registration documents, a list of technical specifications and extensive factory documentation relating to the original chassis.

CONDITION

• There is no bodywork damage.
• The black paintwork is in excellent condition, having been resprayed during the car’s restoration. The paint is reported to present almost as new, with only minor wear blemishes upon close inspection, such as a couple of small stone chips on the bonnet and on the inside of the arches.
• The dark red leather-trimmed interior is in superb condition, with some natural ‘patina’ to the seats and instruments.
• There are no mechanical or electrical faults.

SERVICE HISTORY

• Following its substantial restoration and rebuild in 2016/2017, this Mk VI underwent a comprehensive service in September 2020, when the technicians at Racing Green Engineering also replaced the clutch, the tachometer cable and the radiator, before transporting the car back to its home in Germany.

SUMMARY

This magnificent motorcar combines stunning looks with an authentic pre-war Bentley driving experience. It has been meticulously crafted with the highest attention to detail, including modern conveniences such as a synchronised gearbox, improved suspension and brakes, power steering, and even heated seats. Whilst it would make a natural addition to any collection, this fabulous vehicle would also be a stunning centrepiece at any show, or a superb competitor in a classic racing series.

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