Bentley R Type
The refined successor to the Mark VI and the final Bentley to feature a manual gearbox.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.1 s
- Top speed
- 102 mph
- Est. value
- $28k–$75k
About the Bentley R Type
The Bentley R Type, introduced in 1952, was the second series of Bentley's post-war 'Standard Steel' saloons. While it shared much of its chassis and styling with the preceding Mark VI, it featured a significantly larger boot and a more powerful 4.6-litre engine to handle its substantial weight. It represents the pinnacle of traditional British coachbuilding before the introduction of the S-series, offering a blend of silent operation and surprising agility for its size. Collectors value the R Type for its robust mechanicals and its status as the last Bentley offered with a manual transmission as standard.
Bentley R Type specs
The Bentley R Type produces 150 bhp (112 kW). It reaches 60 mph in 13.1 seconds and has a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).
| Make | Bentley |
|---|---|
| Model | R Type |
| Trim | Saloon |
| Years | 1952–1955 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 2,323 built |
| Engine | 4.6-litre straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,566 cc (4.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.1 s |
| Top speed | 102 mph (164 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,880 kg (4,145 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 80 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Bentley R Type worth?
A typical Bentley R Type is estimated to be worth $28,000 – $75,000 (about £21,000 – £56,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Bentley R Type rarity in CarSpot
The Bentley R Type is an Epic card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 63 out of 100. Supercars and serious performance cars, typically worth around £100,000 to £250,000. An Epic card is worth 80 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Bentley R Type fun facts
- The R Type was originally intended to be called the Mark VII, but the name was changed to avoid confusion with the Jaguar Mark VII.
- While most were 'Standard Steel' saloons, the chassis was also used for the legendary R Type Continental, one of the fastest four-seaters of its era.
- It was the first Bentley to be offered with an optional automatic gearbox, sourced from General Motors, starting in 1953.
