Vehicle Description
With the world still rebuilding in the aftermath of World War II,
Rolls-Royce and Bentley faced the decision of whether or not to
return to the business of producing motorcars. Automobile
production stopped in 1940, leaving the aero-engine division to
sustain the company throughout the war. Today, it is difficult to
believe that Rolls-Royce's managers would consider abandoning the
automobile business, but thankfully, a small contingent within the
company fought to keep cars at the forefront. During World War II,
the aero division housed most of the workforce and machinery, so
once motorcar production was back on, managers moved the line from
the traditional home in Derby to the newer, better-equipped factory
in Crewe. The switch allowed for higher production volume and a
greater quantity of precision machined parts to aid in
standardizing the line; which Rolls-Royce saw as a necessary step
toward long-term survival. Interestingly, the first product to roll
out of the new works in 1946 was, not a Rolls-Royce but rather a
Bentley; the all-new Mark VI. The new model marked a significant
milestone for these legendary British marques. The Bentley Mark VI,
(joined by the twin Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn in 1949) was not only
the first postwar production RR/Bentley product, but it was the
very first model offered by either company as a complete car with
factory-built coachwork. The all-steel production body was
officially designated theStandard Steel Saloon. Pressed Steel Ltd.
produced the panels, and the cars were then assembled and trimmed
in Crewe. Mechanically, the Mark VI shared a good deal in common
with the aborted pre-war Mark V, including independent front
suspension on a sturdy chassis and a 4.25-litre inline-six. The
Standard Steel Saloon offered traditional yet elegant styling,
opulent appointments, and respectably snappy performance, and it
quickly became a best-seller. Independent coachbuilders were
prolific in their use of the Mk VI chassis; however, the Standard
Steel Saloon remains a timeless classic, with distinctive lines and
exquisite quality that defines Bentley in the post-war era. Chassis
number B86PV is a superb example of the Standard Steel Saloon,
coming to us via a dedicated enthusiast and active Rolls Royce
Owner's Club member. RROC documents show this Mk VI was dispatched
in June of 1952 to the original owner, Mr. T. Seton Barr, Esq. of
Kent. While little else is known of the early history, the
Schoellkopf card shows it was in Michigan by the early 1970s. Build
records show the original colors are black and gray over gray hides
and carpets, and equipment included a factory sunroof, which is how
the car presents today. In the hands of the most recent owner,
B86PV has enjoyed regular and meticulous maintenance with an eye
toward reliable on-road performance. The owner documented much of
the work through articles in the Yankee Spirit, the RROC New
England chapter's member newsletter. A substantial sum has been
spent to ensure this Mk VI delivers superb performance and a
gorgeous cosmetic appearance. The black and gray livery is faithful
to original specification, suiting the elegant lines of the
Standard Steel Saloon beautifully. We seldom encounter Standard
Steel Saloons restored with such care and attention to detail, and
this car's lovely paintwork is a particular highlight. The body is
crisp and well-detailed with excellent gaps and beautifully
straight panels. It has seen regular use on the road, so some minor
paint imperfections are found on close inspection, which do little
to detract from the striking presentation. Brightwork is similarly
fine, with excellent bumpers, body moldings, and radiator shell.
Color-keyed wheel covers, black wall tires, and the big Lucas
center-mount driving lamp lend this Bentley a sporting and
purposeful presence. The richly appointed cabin features gray
Connolly hides with matching Wilton carpets per the original
specification. The leather displays an inviting, careworn character
and light creasing while remaining supple and in excellent
condition. Interior woodwork, including the dash, window surrounds,
and rear picnic trays show a similarly light patina that is
consistent with the remainder of the interior. The broadcloth
headlining, instruments, and controls are all in superb order. The
recent owner took a no-expense-spared approach to mechanical
maintenance. Shortly after he acquired the car, he treated it to
new body mounts, rebuilt the front suspension, replaced axle
bearings, fitted a new stainless steel exhaust system, and a
rebuilt differential supplied by Flying Spares. In 2011, he
commissioned a full professional rebuild of the original,
numbers-matching 4.5-litre engine to the tune of $53,700. The work
included new cylinder liners, new pistons, reground crankshaft, new
timing gears, and of course, all new bearings. The engine received
a cosmetic freshening before installation, and it presents in
superb condition today, in strong running order. As a preferred
4.5-litre version, it delivers improved torque and performance over
the earlier 4.25-litre models. The only noticeable deviation from
standard seen under the bonnet is the addition of power steering,
utilizing an off-the-shelf GM hydraulic pump. We rarely see
examples of the Mk VI Standard Steel Saloon treated with such
comprehensive, cost-no-object care. When properly dialed-in as this
one is, the Mk VI is an enjoyable driver's car and a superb choice
for classic rallies and touring events. Well sorted for road and
casual show, B86PV is now ready for its next keeper to carry on
enjoying it for years to come. Offers welcome and trades considered