The 1952 Bentley R-Type Saloon occupies a unique position in the history of the marque as a bridge between luxury and competitive endurance. This specific chassis, B68SR, was prepared by the Bentley factory as a specialized trials car for the legendary gentleman sportsman Mike Couper. Unlike standard production models, this vehicle was engineered to withstand the rigors of international rallying while maintaining the poise expected of a Crewe-built motorcar. Its historical significance is cemented by its successful completion of the treacherous 1953 Rallye Monte-Carlo.
Moss Green Elegance with Competition Roots
The exterior is finished in its factory-correct shade of Moss Green, a deep and sophisticated hue that perfectly suits the “Standard Steel” bodywork. During its preparation for the 1953 rally, the factory equipped this car with slightly lowered suspension and left-hand springing optimized for the demanding roads of continental Europe. The silhouette remains classic Bentley, though its history involves traversing icy mountain passes on special snow tires. A high-quality repaint from the 1990s has preserved the visual character of the car, ensuring it presents beautifully today as a significant piece of post-war competition history.
Beige Leather and Concours de Comfort Luxury
Inside the cabin, the Beige leather interior offers a masterclass in mid-century British luxury, appearing remarkably well-preserved. This 1952 Bentley R-Type Saloon was so exceptionally detailed and comfortable that it won the prestigious Concours de Comfort at the conclusion of the 1953 Monte-Carlo event. The interior features the traditional wood-veneer dashboard and plush seating that allowed the racing trio of Couper, Fillingham, and Tabor to transition from mountain stages to fine dining without missing a beat. Every touchpoint reflects the high-quality craftsmanship that Bentley intended for its elite factory trials machines.
Factory Performance and Matching Numbers Reliability
Under the hood sits the matching-numbers six-cylinder engine, which features a factory-installed performance cylinder head similar to those found in the R-Type Continental. This upgrade was a rarity for a standard saloon of the era and provided the extra power needed for the climb through the Col de Braus. The engine produces an estimated 150 hp / 152 PS and 230 lb-ft / 312 Nm of torque. This unique mechanical specification allowed the heavy saloon to maintain a competitive pace across multiple borders and through dense fog, proving the durability of the Bentley drivetrain under extreme stress.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.6L Inline-Six w/ Performance Head |
| Chassis Number | B68SR |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Manual |
| Curb Weight | 4,070 lbs / 1,846 kg |
| Exterior Color | Moss Green |
| Interior Color | Beige Leather |
A Collector Benchmark for the R-Type
While many Bentley R-Type models are valued solely for their elegance, this car competes in a different tier due to its documented factory trials pedigree. It stands apart from the standard production run as a “factory trials car,” a designation supported by official build sheets. In the collector market, vehicles with verified rally history from the 1950s, especially those piloted by figures like Mike Couper, command significant attention. This Bentley offers a rare opportunity to own a competition-specification vehicle that is just as at home on a modern rally stage as it is on a concours lawn.
Enduring Legacy and Rally Eligibility
The 1952 Bentley R-Type Saloon remains highly eligible for prestigious modern events like the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique, offering its next owner a ticket to elite motorsport circles. Its provenance is flawlessly documented, from its departure in Glasgow to its decades spent in a private California collection. Retaining its matching-numbers engine and unique factory-supplied performance parts, it is arguably the most significant Standard Steel Saloon in existence. This is a rare chance to acquire a Bentley that has won both on the mountain pass and the concours stage.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
