- Rare left-hand-drive U.S. delivery example
- Winner of the Amelia Award in the Bentley class at the 2012 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance
- Accompanied by copies of its original build sheet
- Known history from new, documented in numerous publications and club bulletins
LOT 349
Selling on Saturday
From the Passport Collection; Coachwork by Park Ward
1949 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe
The 1949 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe represents a fascinating chapter in Bentley's post-war history, blending luxury, craftsmanship, and performance. Introduced in 1946, the Mark VI was Bentley's first post-war model and the first to be offered with a factory-built "Standard Steel" body. However, for those seeking exclusivity and individuality, Bentley continued to offer a rolling chassis that allowed customers to commission bespoke coachwork from renowned coach builders.
The Drophead Coupe variant was crafted by various esteemed firms such as Park Ward, H.J. Mulliner, and James Young. These hand-built convertibles featured elegant, flowing lines and refined craftsmanship, catering to the tastes of Bentley's elite clientele. The 1949 Bentley Mark VI retained a traditional separate chassis, allowing for a range of custom designs while incorporating modern advancements like independent front suspension and hydraulic front brakes, giving its owners the best of both worlds with custom taste and upgraded mechanics. With its open-air design, handcrafted luxury, and robust engineering, the 1949 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe embodies the post-war resurgence of British automotive excellence, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
According to the accompanying copies of its original build sheet, this luxurious Bentley was destined for the U.S. market via U.S. agents J.S. Inskip with its rare "L" suffix left-hand-drive configuration and miles-per-hour speedometer, and was delivered new to Robert F. de Graff, who is accredited as the co-founder of Packet Books, Inc. Pinned with its luxurious convertible coachwork by Park Ward, it has resided on U.S. soil from the start.
Documented in various club bulletins, the next owner would be noted British automobile enthusiast Dale Powers of Florida, who would maintain ownership until the 1990s. Acquired in the early '90s, New York-based collector Edward Herbst would become the next lucky caretaker. Under his stewardship, a stunning comprehensive restoration commenced bringing about its current sleek silver over an eye-catching, soothing maroon leather interior. Following its completion, this Mark VI made its debut at the 2012 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance where it went home with an Amelia Award in the Bentley class. Residing in the Herbst Collection for another decade, the Passport Collection would become the next owner.
Today, this Bentley by Park Ward still exudes a wonderful fit and finish, restating why it won a prestigious concours award in 2012. The silver paint is accented by wonderful brightwork, and the interior is finished in a dark maroon with walnut trim throughout. Under the bonnet is an equally impressive inline six-cylinder engine that produces an even 130 horsepower. Paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, independent front suspension with live rear axles, and room for four occupants, this Bentley is an ideal choice for touring, top up or down. Accompanying the sale of this post-war convertible are copies of the original build sheet, various copies from club bulletins, a dash-mounted tool tray, and a rare left-hand-drive MK VI handbook.
Striking in presentation, this luxurious left-hand-drive Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe would surely be a welcome addition at Bentley Driver's Club and Rolls-Royce Owners Club gatherings, tours and further judged events.
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