1950 MK6 Bentley worth

[Tracey Burke]

Hi, my sister and I have inherited our father's beloved MK 6 Bentley and whilst we would love to keep it we are not in a position to. It has been kept in dry storage and due to the declining health of our father he was unable to maintain it the way he used to. It is in ok condition and I was wondering if anyone would be able to advise what the value of it would be in its current condition. It has the hood attachment, but it is not currently on the car. The tool kit is missing two tools and the spark plug.

I apologise if this is not in the correct section of the forum.

[Paul Spencer]

It's a shame nobody knowledgeable has replied to this. It is not my era of Bentley, but I suspect the answer is "not very much" if it is a standard steel saloon (which I think it is) rather than a coachbuilt model. If you are still trying to find out, I could get in touch with a friend who might have a better idea.

[Martin Webster]

Tracey, this is not an easy question to answer. Obviously your late father’s Bentley is of great sentimental value to both yourself and your sister but as Paul has already said its value won’t be a life changing amount. Standard Steel Mk VI and R types have been undervalued for a considerable period and there has been a recent further downturn in their values.
It is worth contacting Wroxton and ask to contact the insurance valuation person to pick their brains about it. You don’t say if the car runs or not. It looks as though it has been standing for some time and that will affect its value as well. I’m sorry I can’t be more specific.
Martin

[Christopher Carnley]

Tracey could start by providing the chassis number, on the brass plate by the ignition coils.

These cars are a money pit, £50,000 goes nowhere, then the cars are unsaleable.

Some special builders only want pre 1949 cars, that is if their client requires a donor car for the special.

It would be best to send it for auction.

Some owners of the better examples are having modifications, like rear axle work to have the car run more quietly on the motorway, as there is no interest at what may seem like a reasonable asking price.

[Tracey Burke]

Thank you all for your replies, they are appreciated.

[Stephen Blakey]

I think the relative lack of replies may be due to the difficulty in coming up with a figure. It's not that long ago that cars like that were making £10,000+, however old car prices have dropped.
The good news is it looks like a great starting point for a restoration as it seems pretty unmolested. The bad news is that almost no one is restoring these cars as they cost a fortune to restore and aren't worth much when they're finished.
My suggestion would be to put it on Car and Classic at £6000 and see what happens. You may have to reduce it. Bear in mind that a reasonably complete MKVI tool kit is worth £500-£750 and the starter motors change hands for £1000 so beware of anyone wanting to cherry pick.

[bbshriver]

Moved to correct sub-forum