Bentley Mulsanne used by King Charles part of upcoming H&H Classics auction
The chance to travel like royalty will soon be available when a 2013 Bentley Mulsanne used by King Charles III goes up for auction with H&H Classics.
Originally belonging to Bentley Motor Cars’ Press and Special Vehicles Dept, the Mulsanne was allocated to the Royal Household in December 2013 and was used by Charles for several engagements during his period as Prince of Wales. It has been photographed numerous times during its period of use, and with this royal provenance, it is expected to sell for between £80,000-£100,000 when auctioned on Wednesday 3rd December at Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire.
This particular Mulsanne was built to an extremely high spec, with a Dark Sapphire exterior colour and Magnolia leather interior. Original features like four-wheel air suspension, burr walnut interior trim, digital radio and television reception, and power-closing boot lid have all been retained.
It has been with its current owner since 2023 and comes with only 35,000 miles on the clock from new.
“One of the most desirable examples available”
Paul Cheetham, senior motor car specialist at H&H Classics, said: “We’re thrilled to offer this very special Bentley Mulsanne for auction, as it’s hard to imagine a better car for a future king.
“For many years, Bentley has been the Royal Family’s marque of choice, and luxury cars do not come much finer than the Mulsanne.
“Given its Royal provenance, this particular Bentley has to be one of the most desirable examples available to own anywhere in the world.”
1962 Aston Martin DB4 'Series IV' Vantage set to fetch biggest sum
Despite its royal association, the 2013 Bentley Mulsanne isn’t the vehicle set to command the highest fee at Millbrook.
That honour goes to this unique 1962 Aston Martin DB4 'Series IV' Vantage. It was the only DB4 'Series IV' Vantage of 45 made to be factory finished in Roman Purple and is expected to fetch between £375,000 - £425,000 at auction.
The purple Aston was under the ownership of patent agent and former Isle of Man TT racer James Bridge-Butler Esq from 1969 - 2021 and has since been part of a marque collection. Over the years, it has been maintained and refurbished by specialists from HR Owen, RS Williams, Aston Service Dorset, Jonathan Wardle and Project Heaven.
How about this 1991 Audi Quattro 20V?
Another classic sure to catch the eye is this 1991 Audi Quattro 20V, which comes with 39,500 miles on the clock and has had only two owners from new.
The Quattro is the creation of Audi chassis engineer Jörg Bensinger, who began to develop the car in 1977. Only 11,452 production models were made from 1980–1991; however, it was its success in rallying which helped it secure legendary status. Audi won World Rally Championship titles in 1982 and 1984, and during the period between 1981 and 1985, the Quattro won 23 races.
This particular example is one of only 295 right-hand drive UK examples and is powered by a 197bhp 2.1-litre in-line five cylinder turbocharged engine. It is estimated to sell for between £65,000 - £75,000 at auction.
The Millbrook Sale from H&H Classics will take place on Wednesday 3rd December.
words: Mike Booth
pictures: H&H Classics Ltd