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 A four speed manual gearbox was fitted as standard up until 1952 at which point it was superseded by a GM Hydramatic automatic gearbox, although customers could still specify a manual option.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

Order your FREE copy

Of our parts catalogue covering all cars from 1945 to 1955.

Click here to find out more

Chassis Numbers

Our guide to understanding your chassis number including major upgrades.

Click here to find out more

Oil Capacities

Our quick reference guide to engine, gearbox and rear axle oil capacities.

Click here to find out more