Test Drive - 1954 Bentley R-Type Saloon!

This beautiful left-hand drive (LHD) 1954 Bentley R-Type Standard Steel Saloon (body no. 6891) is a wonderful driving example that can be enjoyed on tours and local car shows. This R-Type was ordered new with many specific specifications for temperate climates and includes the desirable automatic transmission. This is the later “Big Boot” and big bore model with the larger trunk, dual exhaust and larger more powerful engine. In total, this makes for a very comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
This Bentley was custom ordered in December of 1953 and was delivered to its original owner in the Middle East in March of 1954. Special features were added to accommodate the climate and conditions of the region. The suspension was tailored for maximum shock damping and springing. The roof was padded with extra insulation for the high temperatures. A heavy-duty air cleaner was added to manage the dust from the roads. Sundym glass was installed throughout to reflect the sunlight and keep the inside of the car cooler.
The current owners and longtime RROC members and have enjoyed the Bentley for the last 34 years. The Bentley was purchased in 1988 from a Swiss restauranteur in Little Rock, Arkansas. Over the decades, the current caretakers have enjoyed the motorcar for occasional trips, weddings and driving around town.
The striking Claret and Black livery has wonderful depth and shine and is complemented by the white wall tires and its brilliant chrome and stainless trim. The paint has a beautiful, rich finish, but is of driver quality with many touched up chips from normal use. The chrome on the bumpers is in particularly good condition, although there is some pitting in the center taillight chrome. The Bentley comes with a driver’s side rear-view mirror, a correct period spotlight and auxiliary fog lights. We love the very large sunroofs featured on these later R-Types.
The wood trim is in overall good condition showing some patina. The newer burgundy leather interior is equally as nice and is very soft and supple. There is very minor superficial creasing in the burgundy leather. The Wilton wool carpets are in great condition, with slight shrinkage and otherwise free of blemishes. The steering wheel is good but cracked in a few places. The picnic tables are in excellent condition.
This Bentley R-type features the later larger displacement 4.6 liter straight six with twin SU carburetors, dual exhaust, and can accomplish speeds of over 100 mph and maintain speeds of 70-80 mph on the highway. Mechanically this Bentley is in sound running condition. The car’s 4-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and easily and starts right up. For decades, this Bentley has been garaged and regularly maintained by certified Bentley Mechanics. The chassis and undercarriage are all in good condition, cleaned, detailed and free of rust.
This Bentley comes with a spare tire and jack tool kit with oil gun and tire pump. The small tool tray under the passenger seat is almost complete. She also has her schedule of spare parts, service handbook, owner’s manual, and an extra set of keys.
For more details, please call, text, or email Carey Nelson at +1.480.772.8251 or [e-mail]. The Bentley can be viewed in our showroom in Phoenix, AZ.

[@MENSA.lady2]

Mechanically very similar to my 1948 MK.6. I can confirm that they are a delight to drive and by immediate post WWII standards they were fast. Mine topped out at 98 MPH. The bigger engined R type could top 100 MPH. The manual gear change took a little getting used to as you have to use the "Wrong" hand.

[@david.m.304]

I know these cars, they were one of the fastest 4 door family saloons in their day. Today they are still a beautiful car to own and simply amble along at a gentle pace, say 50 to 60 miles per hour (80 to just under 100 KPH) and are a pleasure to drive - once you get used to them. The colour on this car isn't standard but it is strikingly sporty. That's my thought anyway. Thanks for sharing this video, I enjoyed it immensely.

[@Jeffmartin-dt8pc]

The leather looks purple, is that just the light, should it not be red ?

[@ClassicPromenade]

It was a beautiful burgundy. Not really a purple in real life. These are wonderful cars!

[@Shadrachyisrael]

I OWN A 53 BENTLEY R TYPE SALOON I HAVE 29K.