1951 Bentley Petersen Dartmoor

Recalling the great coachbuilt streamlined designs of the 1930s, most notably those of Figoni et Falaschi and Saoutchik on Talbot-Lago and Delahave chassis, this wonderfully reconstituted Bentley Mark VI is the work of Devon-based Bob Petersen Engineering, a company renowned for the rebuilding, restoration and recreation of classic Bentley motor cars. The first owner wanted the Art Deco look to apply as much to the Bordeaux leather-trimmed interior as to the exterior of the car, which is tastefully finished in Oxford Blue, the result being a unique and very special piece of motoring art.

The Dartmoor is based on a 1951 chassis, which has been extended to a wheelbase of 11' 0" and features modified cruciform bracing and an under-slung rear axle, while the disc wheels are shod with 700x21 tyres. It is powered by a Rolls-Royce B81SV 6.5 litre straight eight, a unit belonging to the B-series of engines developed towards the end of WW2 for military and commercial purposes. Maximum power output of a standard B81 was around 195bhp at 3,750pm, while this unit, with its larger-than-stock valves and specially developed camshaft and pistons, manages a most impressive 265bhp at the rear wheels.

The Dartmoor is reliable and comfortable to drive, possessing plenty of power and torque for modern traffic, and cruises comfortably thanks to its Bentley Continental high-ratio final drive. Power steering has also been fitted to the car, allowing for greater usability at slower speeds.

Displayed for the first time at the Goodwood Revival Meeting in September 2009, the Dartmoor received the 'Judges Choice' award at the AMOC's Morwell House Garden Party in 2010, has visited the Bentley Drivers Club's race weekend at Silverstone, and was displayed at the Essen Techno Classica in 2010 and 2011. The Dartmoor is also featured in Ray Roberts' book, 'Bentley Specials & Special Bentleys Volume Il'.

It sits today in wonderful condition, showing just under 2,750 miles since being built. The car has just returned from a full service with Petersen during which they also fitted a new set of tyres. This wonderful and unique evocation of the very best of Art Deco automotive styling is guaranteed to be the centre of attention at any of the most prestigious motoring events and is ready to be enjoyed.