Miguel Sánchez
Although from its first years it produced luxury models with a traveling vocation, Bentley was already a sporting reference before being absorbed by Rolls-Royce in 1931. Not surprisingly, although Bugatti referred to it as the manufacturer of the “fastest trucks in the world”, the truth is that thanks to Woolf Barnato had won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three consecutive times from 1928 to 1930..
In addition, the creation of models such as the Blower -signed by the engineer Amherst Villiers under the personal protection of the pilot Tim Birkin- further established the performance capabilities of the British house. However, the situation created by The Crash of 1929 forced us to reconsider many questions when it came to understanding the future of Bentley. In this way, many of their vehicles began to be extensions of designs previously signed by Rolls-Royce.
However, even though it is difficult to see the differences between one brand and another, it is impossible to forget how, from time to time, a Bentley appeared capable of remembering that sporting spirit given in the thirties. Thanks to this, in 1951 the Bentley R-Type Continental appeared, designed under the personal impetus of Ivan Evernden.
Project manager at Rolls-Royce and, at the same time, a person completely convinced of the commercial utility of Bentley. Reserving for the same projects that, due to their obvious GT touch, would not easily fit into Rolls-Royce.
Likewise, in the case of the R-Type Continental, he not only created one of the most iconic designs for British motorsport. But also the definition of a concept that, even today, continues to be one of the commercial pillars at Bentley.
What's more, by acquiring an overview of the world of large GTs, the Continentals are key when it comes to understanding the most comfortable and luxurious perspective of this concept. All topped off with aerodynamic lines and excellent body work by HJ Mulline & Co. In short, a true “instant classic”.
BENTLEY R-TYPE CONTINENTAL, THE DEFINITION OF A CONCEPT FOR THE BRAND
Based on the R-Type saloon, the Continental was envisioned as a comfortable and fast four-seater GT ready to distinguish itself with a truly seductive design. Thus, it was characterized as the fastest two-door model with four real seats on the market at that time. And it is that, after all, its engine with six cylinders in line and 4,6 liters for 130 CV it was capable of carrying around 1.700 kilos of the set at more than 170 kilometers per hour.
As a result, this coupé was perfect for traveling at high speeds on the flat and straight roads of the European continent. For this reason, along with the reference shared with the sedan from which it was derived, the name Continental was added. In sum, we are facing a real GT designed by and to devour miles on long trips.
Regarding the mechanics, although various adjustments were made to the one presented by the saloon, it hardly changed. In fact, apart from some new manifolds as well as a somewhat more compromised compression ratio, the engine was almost identical. Undoubtedly, a statement of intent on the character of the Bentley R-Type Continental. Prioritizing the power delivered smoothly at a high rate than the nervous response of an Italian GT, with a more sporty touch.
That being said, most of the changes were presented in the bodywork. Element in which Ivan Evernden invested many hours of work in the wind tunnel owned by Rolls-Royce. Thanks to this, his refined lines end in a rear with little aerodynamic drag while its fins ensure greater stability at high speeds even with strong crosswinds. All this, as we can see, in the wake of covering long distances quickly, comfortably and elegantly.
In addition, trying to lighten the total weight of the assembly, the bodywork was made of aluminum. A material that is undoubtedly much more effective -and expensive- than steel given the dates in which we are dealing with it. In short, from where it is analyzed, the design of the R-Type Continental is the victory of proportions and the right measure. A true prodigy in terms of style and engineering with a British stamp.
Photographs: RM Sotheby's
