1950 Bentley Mark VI

Following the end of World War II, Bentley production resumed at Rolls-Royce's new facility in Crewe, England. The Mark VI would become the first model produced at Crewe and marked a significant departure from pre-war traditions. Most notably, it was the first Bentley offered with factory-designed coachwork, a pivotal move that signaled the company's intent to modernize and streamline production. Closely related to the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, the Mark VI differed primarily in trim, grille design, and badging, but shared all major mechanical components, including the 4,257cc F-head straight-six engine. This engine, fitted with twin SU carburetors and estimated to produce 130 horsepower, was paired with a four-speed synchromesh manual gearbox. Independent front suspension, hydraulic front brakes, and a live rear axle with leaf springs gave the Mark VI capable road manners for its era. Between 1946 and 1952, Bentley produced just 4,946 Mark VIs, of which only a limited number featured custom coachwork by renowned firms such as Park Ward. This elegant 1950 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe, chassis number B441FU, is a documented, matching-numbers example with significant historical provenance. According to factory records on file, the car was bodied by Park Ward & Co. Ltd. and delivered new to Switzerland, where it is believed to have been displayed at the 1950 Geneva Salon under the auspices of Garage de L'Athenée. Its first owner was Madame Meeking, a resident of the famed Hotel Beau Rivage in Geneva, who took delivery on March 14, 1950. Factory records specify several unique features tailored to her order, including: Cream over Black livery with a matching black interior (the original color scheme remains largely preserved), power-operated convertible top, Kilometer odometer, special stop and reverse lamps, and no inset license plate on the trunk lid-a distinguishing feature typically omitted for Continental-delivered cars. Madame Meeking kept the car only briefly, selling it later in 1950 to a Parisian gentleman, Mr. Richepin of Avenue Foch, who became its second recorded owner. By the early 2000s, the car had journeyed to the United States, finding a home in California with Mr. Charles Arenson. It later passed through a noted Los Angeles dealer before acquisition by the most recent Georgia owner in August 2007, and added to our collection here at the St. Louis Car Museum in April 2022. Today, this Bentley presents splendidly as a well-preserved example that retains much of its period charm. The interior features black leather with custom white piping, which shows honest patina and some color loss consistent with age and use. Period details, including a dashboard radio, remain intact. The exterior paintwork displays uniform coverage from a past repaint, now showing age at panel joints, door jambs, and other high-contact areas. This 1950 Bentley Mark VI Drophead Coupe is a rare and stylish example of postwar British coachbuilding, distinguished by its Geneva Salon provenance, European delivery, and unique specification. Included in the sale are the original owner's handbook, factory build documentation, and tools in the period tray-all valuable items that enhance the car's authenticity and collector appeal. With its elegant Park Ward design, known early ownership history, and matching-numbers integrity, it presents a compelling opportunity for collectors seeking a Bentley with both style and story. Whether returned to show-standard condition or enjoyed as a charismatic preservation-class tourer, this Mark VI offers a rich and rewarding ownership experience.