“NEW LOOK” TWO-DOOR SALOON

In the uncertain years following the Second World War, few marques had the courage to reinvent their own design language. Bentley did — but not from Crewe. Instead, the boldest evolution of the new MkVI chassis came from London coachbuilder James Young, who presented a futuristic, streamlined “New Look” two-door saloon at the 1948 Earls Court Motor Show.

Just three examples were built. Each one a radical departure from the upright pre-war silhouettes, with clean flanks, faired-in wings, and an integrated bootline that forecast the 1950s. Bentley’s traditional luxury was still present in Connolly hides, walnut veneers and Smiths instrumentation, but the shape itself spoke of a new design era.

This example is perhaps the best known: once owned by Le Mans winner Duncan Hamilton, meticulously restored in 1985, and preserved since within private collections, including the Calumet Collection.

PROVENANCE & RARITY

• 1 of only 3 built by James Young
• 1948 Earls Court Motor Show exhibit
• Ex-Duncan Hamilton (1953 Le Mans winner with Jaguar)
• Matching numbers
• Period-correct fittings including Lucas lamps, bumper guards, and twin SU carburettors
• 4¼-litre straight-six, 4-speed manual, 100 mph capability

CONCOURS & COLLECTOR OPPORTUNITY

Coachbuilt rarities of this calibre — with design pedigree, exhibition history and documented ownership — are precisely the sort of cars increasingly welcomed at Concours d’Elegance worldwide. From Pebble Beach to Hampton Court, originality and provenance matter as much as condition. This car offers all three!

Yet, while many bespoke post-war Bentleys command six-figure premiums, the “New Look” has remained under the radar. That presents a rare window for the discerning collector: the chance to acquire an ultra-low production design icon at a level far below its true scarcity value.

THE CASE FOR INVESTMENT

Comparable post-war coachbuilt Bentleys and Rolls-Royces — even without show-car provenance — are now regularly transacting at £150,000–£200,000. At the current asking of £84,995, this “New Look” represents a genuine outlier: a museum-worthy design study offered at “standard Bentley” money.

For those seeking more than another Bentley saloon, this is a statement piece. An opportunity to secure one of only three built, with concours potential, Le Mans provenance, and a direct link to one of the most important design exhibitions of the era.

BOOKING A VIEWING

This is a true collector’s piece—one of only three examples, offering a rare blend of bespoke post-war craftsmanship and significant provenance. A showcase of James Young’s design innovation and Bentley engineering, perfectly preserved for the discerning enthusiast. Arrange your appointment now, please contact us at +44 (0) 1732 440 494 or email sales@dmhistorics.com.