Coys Auction - Spring Classics
Royal Horticultural Halls
Elverton St
Westminster
London SW1
Tuesday 8 March 2011
Estimate: £18,000 - £25,000
Registration Number: 136 NOK
Chassis Number: B245HP
The launch of the Bentley Mk VI in 1946 marked a significant change in direction for Rolls-Royce by being the company's first model to be built with a standardised body; previously both Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars had been manufactured in chassis form only, before being bodied by independent bespoke coachbuilders. The change came about as the result of a rationalisation programme instigated before World War Two when it was realised that if Rolls-Royce Motors was to survive rising prices and a decline in the chauffeur-driven market, a substantial increase in overall output, especially in the owner-driver area would be necessary.
Announced in May 1946, the Mk VI featured a strong channel section chassis with independent wishbone/coil spring front suspension allied to a live, leaf-sprung rear