Rare 1950s Bentley Unearthed After 30 Years to Auction for £150,000

A rare vintage Bentley Mark VI, hidden away in a barn for the past 30 years, is poised to attract significant attention at auction. The classic vehicle, which dates back to the 1950s, will be sold without reserve as part of the H&H Classics Pavilion Gardens auction in Buxton, Derbyshire, on July 30, 2023.

The Bentley has a storied history, having been owned by the seller’s family for over six decades. Acquired by the seller’s late father in the 1960s, the car was used for his wedding before being passed down to his daughter in 2023. Despite its long period of inactivity, the vehicle retains much of its original charm, including its leather interior and dark grey paint.

This vintage relic, which can reach speeds of up to 100 mph thanks to its powerful 4257cc OISE straight-six engine, is expected to command a staggering price at auction. Pristine versions of the Mark VI often sell for between £15,000 and £150,000, and the seller hopes to attract a competitive bid.

Condition and Auction Details

While the exterior of the Bentley remains largely intact, it does require a significant restoration to be roadworthy again. Moths have damaged the original wool interior, but the car still boasts its original leatherwork and veneer. A spokesperson for the auction noted, “Now offered without reserve and presenting a dilemma for any would-be purchaser as to whether to preserve its years of patination or restore it back to its former glory.”

The Bentley comes with a current UK V5C registration document, an owner’s handbook, and a selection of old MoT test certificates and tax discs. This documentation adds to its value and appeal for potential buyers.

The Mark VI was notable for being the first Bentley model to feature factory-designed coachwork, marking a significant evolution in the brand’s manufacturing process. It was assembled at the Rolls-Royce factory in Crewe, rather than at Bentley’s original site in Derby. This aspect of its history may further enhance its desirability among collectors.

A Legacy of Classic Cars

The upcoming auction follows another significant event in the automotive world, where a pensioner’s car collection was put up for sale for £1 million. Frank Loft, who began collecting vehicles in 2008, amassed a total of 120 cars, featuring a mix of high-end models and more affordable options. Among his collection are a 1930s Rolls-Royce worth £26,000, a 1959 Jaguar XK150 valued at £50,000, and a 1970 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk II estimated at £30,000.

Loft described his collection as a “hobby gone out of control,” emphasizing that running a museum is not typically a path to fortune. He expressed gratitude for the experiences he has had, welcoming tens of thousands of visitors over the years. “My body’s telling me it’s time I had a break,” he said, leaving open the possibility of new projects in his future.

As the Bentley Mark VI prepares to re-enter the spotlight after decades of obscurity, collectors and car enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how much this rare piece of automotive history will fetch at auction.