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Bentley R-Type “Gooda” Special Coupé

This special R-Type two-seater fastback coupé is a rare example of a post-war Bentley modified for competition. The car was built by Robert Peel to the special order of the late Robert (Bob) Gooda, and at one time was jointly owned by racer Brian Dumps, who had raced it at a BDC meeting at Silverstone in 1967. The R-Type featured a new design of independent front suspension, hydraulic front brakes and a new 4,257cc, six-cylinder, ‘F-head’ (inlet-over-exhaust) engine, destined for enlargement to 4,566cc in 1951. Representing a much-needed improvement to the standard bodywork, the R-Type featured an enlarged boot together with associated changes to the rear wings and suspension. The R-Type was a lively performer, achieving 106mph in silence and reaching 50mph from standstill in 10 seconds despite a curb weight approaching two tons.