Outstanding Customer Reviews 1946-1955 | Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith, Silver Dawn; Bentley MkVI, R Type Parts
Following the Second World War the first cars to emerge from Crewe were the Bentley MkVI in 1946 followed by the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith (1947) and Silver Dawn (1948). The MkVI and Silver Dawn were the first models to be produced with
factory built all-steel coachwork.
All models were powered by a straight six engine with an initial capacity of 4.257 litres. A “bigger bore” 4.566 litre engine was introduced in 1951 with the last of the R Type Continental and Silver
Wraith models having a 4.887 litre engine. A four speed manual gearbox was fitted as standard up until 1952 at which point it was superseded by a GM Hydramatic automatic gearbox, although customers could still specify a manual option.
The
MkVI ceased production in August 1952 and was replaced by the R Type (so called because of the chassis range starting with an R) which was effectively a “bigger boot” version as the luggage capacity was doubled. Both the MkVI and R Type have
become popular for conversion into “specials”, many of which have, and continue to be, modified and maintained by dedicated enthusiasts.
The now highly desirable R Type ‘Continental’ models (1952-55) were also only offered as a rolling
chassis, the majority of which were bodied by coachbuilder H. J. Mulliner. Its high performance engine earnt it the title as the fastest 4 seat production car available at that time.
The Silver Dawn was effectively a RR badged Bentley MkVI
or R Type with the only main mechanical difference being the fitting of a single Stromberg or Zenith carburetter.
The Silver Wraith was only offered as a rolling chassis, originally 127” long (7” longer than the MkVI and Silver Dawn
chassis,) with a 133” Long Wheelbase version available from 1952. Typically these were bodied as limousines and production continued until 1958.
Build figures:
Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn: 760
Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith: 639
Bentley MkVI (4.25 litre engine): 4000 including 832 with coachbuilt bodies
Bentley MkVI (4.5 litre engine): 1202 including 180 with coachbuilt bodies
Bentley R Type: 2323 including 295 with coachbuilt bodies
Bentley R Type Continental: 208 - 193 of which were bodied by HJ Mulliner
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Of our parts catalogue covering all cars from 1945 to 1955.
Chassis Numbers
Our guide to understanding your chassis number including major upgrades.
Oil Capacities
Our quick reference guide to engine, gearbox and rear axle oil capacities.
