Imagine the grit of post-war rallying, a time when competitors drove a luxurious saloon across half a continent, not a specialized lightweight machine. This 1952 Bentley R-Type Saloon is a genuine piece of that history. It is a time capsule from an era when a gentleman sportsman could pilot his daily driver to victory in one of the world’s most grueling races. This particular car, chassis B68SR, stands out because of the factory-level assistance and competition history that defines its incredible story.
The Post-War Bentley Boy
The original “Bentley Boys” were a group of affluent racers who put the brand on the map in the 1920s. Mike Couper was one of their spiritual successors, a loyal enthusiast long after W.O. Bentley left the company. Couper was known to consistently favor Rolls-Royce and Bentley products for the challenging Rallye Monte-Carlo. For the 1953 event, he chose this R-Type Saloon, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the marque. His participation adds genuine gravitas to the car’s already impressive pedigree.
Factory Trial Car Specification
The paperwork on this R-Type confirms it was built as a “factory trials car” by Bentley itself. This meant it was specifically set up for activities just like the Monte-Carlo Rally. For instance, the car featured special snow tires to handle the treacherous, icy mountain passes. It also had left-hand springing, providing the correct setup for long-distance European driving. Furthermore, the suspension was slightly lowered to improve handling and stability.
An Exclusive Performance Upgrade
What truly distinguishes this R-Type is the factory-installed performance cylinder head. This part was similar to the one used on the celebrated R-Type Continental, the high-speed grand tourer. It may well have been the first standard R-Type to receive this desirable performance upgrade directly from the Crewe factory. This modification highlights Bentley’s desire to support their loyal gentlemen racers like Mike Couper. Such bespoke details make this car exceptionally rare and significant.
The Glasgow to Monte-Carlo Trek
Couper, Pat Fillingham, and Peter Tabor began their challenging 1953 Rally journey in Glasgow, Scotland. They traversed Scotland and Wales, then passed through London, catching the cross-channel ferry to France. Continuing through dense fog and treacherous weather, they drove through Belgium, the Netherlands, and into Paris. This grueling route saw the Bentley eventually proceed into the snow-covered Alps before reaching the finish line.
Rallye Monte-Carlo Success
Upon arrival in Monte Carlo, the R-Type completed a timed test on the Col de Braus mountain pass, finishing a respectable 45th overall. The real triumphs came after the driving was done. The team was awarded the Concours de Comfort, a significant prize for the rally’s best-detailed and most comfortable car. Couper also received the special Coupe d’Or, which recognized his years of dedication and major contributions to the Monte-Carlo event. The success of the journey was possible only with stops at Europe’s finest hotels and restaurants.
Legendary Six-Cylinder Performance
Under the long bonnet resides the matching-numbers 4.6-liter straight-six engine. This robust unit utilizes an F-head configuration, meaning overhead inlet and side exhaust valves. In standard tune, this 4.6-liter engine typically delivered approximately 130 to 150 horsepower. However, the special performance cylinder head fitted to this R-Type would have boosted those figures. Contemporary reports suggest a similar factory-prepped car achieved a 0-60 mph time of around 13.25 seconds. It also boasted a top speed exceeding 100 mph, which was an impressive feat for a luxury saloon of that era.
A Life of Preservation
Following its rally success, the Bentley remained in Europe until 1968, when it made its way to California. There, previous owner George Giese discovered the car’s incredible history. Today, this rally veteran remains exceptionally well preserved and retains its original engine, which is a key factor for collectors. The car received a high-quality repaint in the early 1990s, restoring its factory-correct Moss Green finish.
A Significant Post-War Competition Bentley
Acquired by the current owner in 2016, this Bentley R-Type Saloon is not merely a collector’s item; it is a piece of sporting history. It represents the transition of the marque into the post-war era of luxury and performance. This specific car is highly eligible for the prestigious Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique, offering a direct path to reliving its celebrated past. Few standard steel saloons can claim such a unique and significant competition pedigree as this Mike Couper R-Type.
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Source & Details: rmsothebys.com
