Just 207 examples of Bentley’s R-Type Continental were made during its 1952 to 1955 build run, with many gaining Sports Saloon coachwork by H.J.

Mulliner.

Beyond the polished wood facia lay a 4,566-cc, six-cylinder engine that carried the car to a 115 mph top speed, making this sporting-yet-luxury cruiser the fastest four-seat production car in the world at the time.

Sold via London’s Kingsbury Motors dealership, chassis BC61C was delivered on 5 May 1954 to its first owner, Mr L C Hudson, the Birmingham-based producer of ACME whistles.

He specified right-hand drive and a four-speed, close-ratio, synchromesh gearbox for his Pacific Green over Beige hide R-Type.

He generously applied optional extras, most notably adding upgraded Le Mans-style headlights by Lucas, a two-inch-wider passenger seat, an armrest, three-way petrol pump switch, additional “GB” exterior badging, plus a Negretti and Zambra altimeter.

Perfectly equipped for his tastes, records show that Mr Hudson covered over...