1955 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback Sports Saloon
H.J. Mulliner’s lightweight aluminum bodywork transformed Rolls-Royce’s vision into the fastest four-seat production automobile of its era.
Aerodynamic fastback styling, developed using Rolls-Royce wind tunnel testing, featured a sweeping roofline extending to subtle rear fins, paired with Bentley’s traditional V-shaped grille topped by the Flying B mascot. The two-door grand touring configuration prioritized sustained high-speed continental travel over traditional British saloon conventions.
Early production employed a 279 cubic inch inline-six producing approximately 155 horsepower, while mid-1954 brought an enlarged 298 cubic inch version rated at about 175 to 178 horsepower. Twin SU carburetors, revised induction manifolds, and a raised 7.25:1 compression ratio distinguished the Continental specification from standard R-Type engines.
The iron-block, aluminum-head six-cylinder engine drove through a four-speed manual transmission, with a four-speed Hydramatic automatic available as an option.
Performance figures included a top speed approaching 120 mph, with 100 mph attainable in third gear. Autocar famously described the Continental as “a modern magic carpet,” praising its ability to sustain very high speeds with remarkable refinement and comfort.
Only 207 examples were delivered to customers between 1952 and 1955, with 43 built in left-hand drive. Positioned as the world’s most expensive production car at the time, this exclusivity cemented the Continental’s status among industrialists, heads of state, and the international elite.
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