BENTLEY R-TYPE 1952

History

Purchased by Kirkfare Klassics July 2017 From Brian Gallivan, Cleveland, Qld.

Chassis Number B.20.RT was delivered as the first Standard Steel Saloon R-Type Bentley on 15th June 1952, under Bentley Motors (1931) Limited Invoice No: 20263.

Bentley initially planned to release the R-Type as the Mark VII, however Jaguar release its own Mark VII before them. Subsequently, before release the company announced the model was re-designated as the “R Type”.

B.20.RT was historically delivered as a Mark VII, as well as the first “R Type”. The second car delivered after ours, had the chassis number B.9.RS, which was delivered on 17th July 1952. The first car of the series, B.2.RT being coach built, was not delivered until 1st November 1952.

Ownership

Original Owner – Major Martineau, Maidenhead, Berkshire. Special build - with the following for use in France:

• Special attention to comfort of seats

• Speedometer in kilometres

• Continental chassis plate

• 12/41 rear axle

• French type headlights

• Locks to bonnet

• No tables to back of seats

• Export bumpers

• Blinker indicators

• H.F. Horns

• Plain radiator cap

• Registration XAU.888

First known owner in Australia was Mr Harry Mann, Adelaide, South Australia in 1973 and registered as BMB.933. Schedule of former owners is being compiled. There are many blanks in the UK and Australian available details.

BENTLEY

R TYPE 1952

Condition – Restored

Specifications

Chassis/VIN – B.20RT

Engine – B10R

Body No – 5531

Gearbox – 4 speed Manual

Colour– Exterior, Tudor Grey. Belco 222/2023 Red & Silver lines