Bentley Mark V classic cars for sale

History and Background of the Bentley Mark V

Unveiled to the public in 1939, the Bentley Mark V was introduced as an evolution of the 4 1⁄2 Litre model, and became the second Bentley model developed under Rolls-Royce management during the Derby years. It was designed to address the limitations of its predecessor’s chassis and bring Bentley into a new era, just as competing marques were pushing boundaries in engineering and design. The Mark V was set to debut at the 1939 Olympia Motor Show, but the outbreak of World War II abruptly cut short its production. In total, just 17 chassis were completed, and today only seven authentic Mark V cars survive. The model not only closed the chapter on Derby-manufactured Bentleys, but also signalled the move toward post-war production methods that would define the marque in the decades to come.

Model Series History

The Mark V replaced the 4 1⁄2 Litre Derby Bentley and directly preceded the Mark VI, which was introduced after the war in 1946. During its short production window, the Mark V was available exclusively as a chassis, leaving body construction to renowned British coachbuilders such as Park Ward. Its design laid the foundation for the Mark VI, introducing technical and stylistic improvements that set the pattern for Bentley models well into the post-war period. Experimental versions included the aerodynamic Corniche and a prototype with a powerful eight-cylinder engine, known internally as the 'Scalded Cat.'

Key Features and Highlights of the Bentley Mark V

The Mark V signified several firsts for Bentley, most notably its adoption of independent front suspension with coil springs and wishbone arms, providing superior road holding and comfort over previous models’ rigid axle setups. The model introduced a reinforced cruciform chassis design lowering flex, while the 4,257 cm³ inline-six was refined with higher compression pistons and a revised cylinder head. Braking was served by servo-assisted Girling units, and a synchromesh gearbox offered smoother gear changes from second upwards. Many Mark V chassis received lightweight coachwork from the likes of Park Ward, employing a combination of steel frames and aluminium panels.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Notable Variants

The most significant variant is the Bentley Mark V Corniche, a lighter and aerodynamically optimised development designed by Georges Paulin and bodied by Carrosserie Vanvooren. Only a handful of incomplete chassis and one running prototype were produced before war halted further development; the latter was destroyed during the Blitz. Bentley Motors has since constructed a faithful recreation of the Corniche based on original plans. The one-off eight-cylinder 'Scalded Cat' prototype further illustrates the model's engineering breadth, though it never entered formal production.

Weak Spots and Maintenance Considerations

Given the extreme rarity of the Mark V, detailed records of common issues are limited. However, the complexity of its independent front suspension, split drivetrain, and early synchromesh gearbox imply that meticulous maintenance and specialist expertise are essential. As with all pre-war British luxury cars, preservation of original coachwork and attention to bespoke features are crucial to maintain value and authenticity.

Engine, Transmission, and Driving Characteristics

The Mark V's six-cylinder engine provides enhanced smoothness and lower cabin noise due to its forward mounting position and improved balancing. The adoption of independent front suspension results in increased cornering stability and comfort, a marked advancement for vehicles of the era. Synchromesh on the upper gears, along with a split propshaft, ensures reduced vibration and easier gear changes. The powerful yet refined drivetrain enabled the Mark V to excel as a pre-war super saloon suitable for both cross-country touring and endurance rally participation. - Bentley Mark V Corniche: Notable for advanced aerodynamics and extreme rarity.

• 'Scalded Cat' prototype: Experimental eight-cylinder, now lost but referenced as the highest performing Mark V.
• Park Ward-bodied examples: Exemplify lightweight, high-quality British coachwork.

Interior and Exterior Design, Special Equipment

Coachwork for the Mark V was typically sourced from top-tier British specialists such as Park Ward. Lightweight bodies often combined steel chassis with aluminium running boards, bonnets, and doors. The interior focused on luxury, featuring fine leathers and rich wood veneers, with a driving position meticulously engineered for both visibility and comfort. Special order features varied significantly, and each Mark V exhibited unique stylistic details based on the owner’s specifications—making each car effectively a bespoke creation. The Corniche’s streamlined profile introduced pronounced fender lines and a lowered roof, seeking ultimate aerodynamic efficiency for high-speed motoring of the era.

Other Noteworthy Aspects

Every Bentley Mark V was technically an experimental vehicle, intended for continuous refinement. Planned public launches and high-profile World Fair appearances were cut short by wartime events. Today, surviving Mark Vs include one preserved by Bentley Motors as part of their Lineage Collection, symbolising the model’s lasting place in company history. The Mark V represents the pinnacle of hand-built engineering before standardised production transformed the brand after 1946.

Summary

With only seven known survivors, the Bentley Mark V ranks as an exceptional rarity among pre-war British cars. Its significance lies not only in its scarcity but in the sweeping technical innovations it introduced—independent front suspension, robust new chassis architecture, and a re-engineered six-cylinder engine. Combining traditional coachbuilt craftsmanship with forward-thinking mechanical advances, the Mark V remains a compelling study in automotive progress at a crossroads of war and industry.