BENTLEY R-TYPE ‘EMPRESS’ by HOOPER, 1953
Catering for the very top end of the market, Hooper & Co. could arguably be described as representing the very pinnacle of the coachbuilder’s art, and perhaps never more so than in the small number of Bentley R-Type sports saloons built in the company’s Empress style. Although primarily an automotive coachbuilder, Hooper interestingly also turned their consideraable skills to building Sopwith Camel fighters during the First World War and sections of de Havilland Mosquitos during the Second.
One of just 39 Empress Line four door sports saloons built, this example was first registered in November 1953. Hugely expensive at the time, of course, this particular car further benefited from the fitment of Factory electric windows and manual transmission, especially specified by the first owner, E.C. Kent Esq.
Built to RHD specification and finished in Mason’s Black / Champagne Beige, this example retains its original engine as well as its original UK registration number. Over the last few years, the car has been treated to an expensive and extensive programme of restoration which has encompassed all aspects of the car.
Having in recent years formed part of a significant private collection, this exceptionally rare R-Type is presented now in quite superb restored condition and might very well be considered one of the finest examples of its kind.
PRICE
£ 42,500 GBP
07968 094741
The car is presently UK registered and is supplied with UK Title.
