1950 Bentley MkVI Waumsley Special. $35,000-45,000The policy of rationalisation begun in the late 1930s continued at Rolls-Royce after the war with the introduction of standard bodywork on the MkVI Bentley, though customers could still opt for a coachbuilt alternative. Rolls-Royce's first post-World War II product, the MkVI was introduced in 1946, a year ahead of the Rolls-Royce Silver Wraith. Although mechanically similar to the MkVI, the latter was exclusively a coachbuilt car, the first 'standard steel' Rolls-Royce, the Silver Dawn, not appearing until 1949. A separate chassis was retained, the same basic design being built in three different wheelbase lengths, that of the MkVI (and Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn) measuring 10' exactly. Notable features were independent front suspension and hydraulic front brakes, while powering the range was a new 4,257cc six-cylinder engine featuring inlet-over-exhaust valve gear and breathing through a Stromberg carburettor (Rolls-Royce) or twin SUs (Bentley). In the absence of anything remotely resembling its vintage touring models from the post-war Bentley range, enthusiasts with a yen for stripped-down, wind-in-the-hair excitement had little choice but to opt for a conversion. A number of specialist coachbuilders offered variations on the theme, although it is not known who was responsible for the body fitted to 'B75FU'. The vehicle was purchased in 1987 from Richard Waumsley, of Capetown, South Africa, who had bought it in that country from an American named Halett four years previously. It is believed that the 1930s-style replica body was fitted in Uk. In 1990 the Bentley was shipped to New Zealand, where Auto Restorations undertook work to ensure its roadworthiness; improving the steering and hand brake mechanism, installing fresh wiring, welding the chassis for safety and strength, and fitting rear suspension bumper blocks. In addition, the bodywork was tidied and new carpets fitted. Bruce Pidgeon reported that 'the car was enjoyable to drive on the open road, the gearbox is smooth, the brakes powerful and the engine has a good turn of speed. The steering takes a little understanding in that you need quite a lot of lock turning into a corner and then very little after that. The turning circle is not good but it is sufficient considering the length of the car.' In 1997 the car was delivered to Blenheim, where Garry Turner of Auto & Classic Restorations carried out various minor works the following year. -