The Bentley R-Type Continental is universally regarded as one of the most beautiful cars ever produced. Built on the same chassis and running gear as the standard R-Type, the Continental’s stunning aluminium bodywork—most often the fastback sports saloon by H.J. Mulliner—gave it an edge in performance and driving dynamics, being lighter in weight and with superior aerodynamics. With a top speed of 120 mph, it was the fastest four-seat production car in the world at the time.

Offered here is a sought-after, very late-production E-series model. Chassis number BC8E is equipped with all of the running improvements made to the R-Type Continental over its run, including the larger 4.9-litre engine introduced in July 1954. The car was finished to a nicely comfortable specification, with automatic transmission, armrests, map pockets to the doors, and a foot switch for the horns, as well as a James Young-style Continental badge, GB letters, and Ace rear number plate illumination. It was delivered to original owner S J Gilbey by Jack Barclay on 23 March 1955.

Chassis BC8E passed in August 1960 to its second owner, Dr P P Lee, then in January 1961 to A D Mackenzie. The following year Mr Mackenzie returned the car to the factory, where it was uprated with an S1-style cylinder head. The so-called OPWAS modification was something often done to these cars in later restorations for improved performance, but in this instance is documented as having been undertaken in period and by Bentley. Mr Mackenzie would be a very good and long-term enthusiast caretaker of his car, driving it and enjoying it for over a quarter of a century. It was featured during his ownership in the Bentley Drivers Club Review in 1969.

In 1988, the Bentley was acquired from its Mackenzie ownership by the renowned enthusiast Peter Sachs, who retained it for two years before selling it to American collector Morris Gardner. Late in Mr Gardner’s care, in early 2002, it was appropriated by Bentley Motors USA and used in Stateside promotions for the launch of its spiritual successor, the R-Type Continental. Several months later, it was acquired by its present owner and returned across the Atlantic in time to attend the Continental 50th Anniversary Celebration at Silverstone, held in August 2002.

Presented in fine overall cosmetic and mechanical order, in a rich Garnet over tan leather interior, BC8E remains in splendid overall order. It would be a tempting acquisition as one of the finest, most desirably equipped of all surviving R-Type Continentals.