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Bentley Mk VI Freestone & Webb Saloon

Category:

Description

The Bentley Mk VI Freestone & Webb Saloon is a bespoke coachbuilt version of Bentley’s post-war luxury saloon, crafted by the esteemed British coachbuilder Freestone & Webb. While the standard Mk VI was Bentley’s first model offered with a factory-built body, buyers with discerning tastes could still commission exclusive bodies from independent coachbuilders, and Freestone & Webb was among the most celebrated for their elegance and innovation.

This saloon version featured distinctive styling cues typical of Freestone & Webb’s craftsmanship, often including sweeping fender lines, intricate grilles, and finely contoured rear ends. The designs could range from the conservative and stately to the dramatic and flamboyant, especially in the case of their patented “razor-edge” styling or drophead coupés. Interiors were appointed with the highest quality materials—rich Connolly leather, burled walnut trim, and finely detailed instrument panels, all tailored to the owner’s specifications.

Mechanically, the Freestone & Webb-bodied Mk VI shared its underpinnings with the standard Mk VI: a robust straight-six engine (initially 4.25 litres, later expanded to 4.5 litres), smooth four-speed manual transmission, and a chassis tuned for a refined ride. However, the unique bodywork often added extra weight, which slightly impacted performance but was more than compensated for by the bespoke luxury and presence.

These coachbuilt Bentleys are rare and highly collectible, reflecting both the craftsmanship of Freestone & Webb and the transitional era in luxury motoring—when hand-built artistry was still an option for those seeking individuality beyond the factory line.

Additional information

Manufacturer

Bentley

Country

UK

Production Started

1947

Production Stopped

1947

Vehicle Type

Bodystyle

Sedan

Number of Doors

4

Number of Seats

6

Top Speed

99 mph (160 kph)

0-60 mph (0-100 kph)

15.5 s

Power

99 / 135 / 133 @ 4000 rpm

Torque

278 / 205 @ 2200 rpm

Engine Manufacturer

Bentley

Engine

Inline 6

Engine Location

Front

Engine Displacement

4257 cc (258.6 cu in)

Valvetrain

IOE

Valves per Cylinder

2

Bore / Stroke

88.9 x 114.3 mm (3.5 x 4.5 in)

Compression Ratio

6.4:1

Cooling System

Water

Charging System

Fuel Type

Petrol

Fuel System

Carburator, 2 x SU

Aspiration

Normal

Fuel Capacity

Drive

Rear

Transmission

M4

Steering

Front Brakes

Rear Brakes

Front Suspension

Rear Suspension

Tyre Dimensions

Chassis

Weight

1900 kg (4189 lb)

Length

4875 mm (191.9 in)

Width

1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height

1640 mm (64.6 in)

Wheelbase

3048 mm (120 in)