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Description

One of only three built with this specific body design, with its sister car once belonging to Cary Grant
Featured in the "P & A Wood Story" on pages 153 and 250, which speaks to its significance
The car has appeared at prestigious Concours events across Europe and Great Britain, including Villa d'Este and the BDC, where it took 1st place in class
Meticulously maintained for both touring and Concours events by P & A Wood
Complete ownership documents from new
First issued registration – 3 RAU – still on the car
Just prepared by Clark & Carter

Finished in Rolls Royce Midnight Blue with beige Connolly hide interior, recently replaced Mohair soft trim by P & A Wood, and luxurious Sateen Sahara upholstery. The Wilton carpets are in Dark Blue, matching beautifully with the exterior.

The vehicle comes with comprehensive ownership history documented from new, alongside fully recorded restoration works. It has covered just 126,528 miles since 1952. Previously owned by nobility, this car retains its original registration, RAU 3, intact after 73 years. Full aluminum coachwork apart from the bonnet. Both MOT certifications dating back to 1970 and the original BUFF logbook are included in the file. Recently prepared for sale by the award winning restoration house Clarke & Carter.

This car was supplied to H J Mulliner & Co's coachworks as a rolling chassis, initially built on the standard wheelbase with a newly developed 4 ½ liter engine. Among the first fitted with the 'Lightweight' construction method, using extruded 'Reynolds Metal' framing and aluminum panels. H J Mulliner manufactured only 67 coach built bodies to R Types, of which just three were designed in this style—two right hand drive and one left hand drive model delivered to Cary Grant. Unique features include a vee shaped windscreen (inspiration to the prototype R Type continental OLG) and tail made bumpers including the over riders. Built for touring, it boasts a generously sized boot, larger than that of the Continental models, capable of accommodating your complete fitted luggage. Built for A.N. Goulandris of St. Marys Avenue, London.

Ownership History:

1953–1954: Built for A.N. Goulandris, London
1954–1979: Owned by John Goulandris, returned for maintenance to H J Mulliner, Wilesdon
1979–1989: Owned by Marcus Rosner, Los Angeles, California
1989–2002: Owned by Baron Von Schellenberg, acquired at Christie's; restored by Excelsior Coachworks, P & A Wood, and P.J. Fischer
2002–2011: Maintained by Taylors, Chichester
2011–2025: Acquired by a highly regarded Bentley collection, exclusively maintained and prepared for touring and Concours events by P & A Wood

Events Participated In:

Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, Italy
Bentley 50th Anniversary, Le Mans, France
RREC Douhlas Wood Trophy, Rockingham Castle, GB
RREC Rob Emberson Trophy, GB – 2nd
St. Moritz Concours, Switzerland
BDC Concours, GB – 1st
Schloss Bensberg Classics, Germany
Salon Prive, GB
Hampton Court Concours, GB

RAU 3 has been lovingly cared for throughout its life, with continuous maintenance regardless of expense. Its complete ownership history from 1953 to 2026 has been thoroughly verified, ensuring the authenticity of its mileage. This prestigious car, owned by various notable collections, has participated in the finest events across Great Britain and Europe. A truly exceptional offering that promises enjoyment and satisfaction—this car will not disappoint.

Now available for viewing at the DD Classics Dealership in London, please call 0208 878 33 55 to book an appointment.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above information but errors may occur. Please check with a salesperson.

Condition & Registration

Registered

Ready to drive

Inspection Report

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make: Bentley
Model series: R-Type
Model name: R-Type Continental
First registration date: Not provided
Year of manufacture: 1952
Mileage (read)
Chassis number: Not provided
Engine number: Not provided
Gearbox number: Not provided
Matching numbers: No
Number of owners: Not provided

Technical details

Body style: Convertible
Power (kW/hp): 120/163
Cubic capacity (cm³): 4887
Cylinders: 6
Doors: Not provided
Steering: Right (RHD)
Gearbox: Automatic
Gears: Not provided
Transmission: Rear
Front brakes: Not provided
Rear brakes: Not provided
Fuel type: Petrol

Individual Configuration

Exterior color: Blue
Interior color: Beige

Interior material: Leather

Location

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1952 | Bentley R-Type Continental