Chassis No.: B320MD

Location: Phoenix, Arizona

$128,800 USD | Sold

• Offered from the Calumet Collection
• A fascinating special in the “W.O.” mold
• Powered by an eight-cylinder Rolls-Royce B80 engine
• Accompanied by a report from Bentley historian Diane Brandon
• Offered with hand tools and assorted spares
• Wonderfully entertaining to drive and enjoy

The prevalence of used Bentley Mark VI chassis in the 1960s and 1970s led to their conversion to two-seat sports cars, often using a shortened frame and the original six-cylinder engine, with bodywork inspired by the “W.O.” Bentleys of the late 1920s.

An unusually well-designed special on the Mark VI chassis, this car has been a favorite driver for the Calumet Collection over the years. Based upon a Mark VI chassis, it is unusual in that the chassis remains its full 120-in. length, and is powered by a Rolls-Royce B80 industrial straight eight-cylinder engine, as used in military vehicles, with four SU carburetors and an electric fan, mated to a four-speed manual transmission. The result has plenty of space and abundant power, in equal measure.

The design is filled with wonderful period-correct detailing, including a mesh stone guard for the radiator and headlights, dual Windtone horns, driver’s side spotlight, and metal step plates. The cowl was lowered to fit the rakish sports windshield with Lucite side glasses, while storage is provided ahead of the windshield for hand tools in a leather pouch. Within, comfortable period-style seats face a banjo steering wheel and a handsomely appointed dashboard. Aft is a chrome luggage rack with two suitcases, used to carry additional tools and spares. Typical of the Calumet Collection cars, all is well detailed and very tidy. The odometer noted 8,203 miles at the time of cataloguing.

One of the most entertaining automobiles to drive in the Collection, this car would be wild fun for a new owner on Arizona desert roads this winter – or just as much at home in Florida or California.

https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/az19/lots/r0007-1951-bentley-mark-vi-special/