The Bentley R-Type was designed by the British manufacturer to replace the ‘owner-driver’ Mk IV model on the standard-sedan market.
As compared to its predecessor, this new model came in two different variants - R-Type and R-Type Continental - and featured a larger 4.6L 6-cylinder inline engine delivering a maximum output of 150 hp. Later on, in 1959, the R-Type Continental received a 4.9L unit. In terms of exterior design, the 2-door R-Type Continental was fitted with a longer tail on its standard bodywork and featured almost identical styling to the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn.