Electric Cars

Once a stately saloon, this 1949 Bentley Mark VI has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis into a distinctive roadster. This bespoke creation, born from a 1992 conversion by Jack Buckley Coachwork, now presents a captivating fusion of vintage British luxury and spirited performance. It retains the iconic Bentley elegance while embracing a more dynamic character, setting it apart as a truly unique automotive specimen.

The journey of this particular Bentley Mark VI began as a right-hand-drive saloon, epitomizing the grandeur of postwar British motoring. However, in 1992, it embarked on a new chapter, being meticulously reshaped into a custom roadster. This transformation, carried out by the esteemed Jack Buckley Coachwork in Oldham, England, replaced its original body with a striking red exterior complemented by a luxurious tan leather interior. The conversion focused on enhancing its athletic appeal, giving it a more assertive stance and a lighter, more nimble feel on the road.

Under the extended hood, this roadster houses a replacement 4.25L F-head inline-six engine, inherited from another Mark VI. This powerhouse is equipped with twin SU carburetors, meticulously rebuilt and synchronized in 2025 to ensure optimal performance. The engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission, featuring synchromesh on the top three gears, allowing for a more engaging and responsive driving experience. Recent maintenance in October 2025 further guarantees its readiness for the open road, including a fuel tank cleaning, a new battery, wiring harness repairs, and fresh oil and coolant.

The vehicle's underpinnings have also been significantly upgraded to match its new, sportier persona. It features a coil-sprung independent front suspension, alongside a live axle with leaf springs at the rear. These modifications, executed by Greenfield Engineering in England during the initial conversion, were designed to enhance handling and road dynamics. The front suspension received a fresh coat of black paint in 2022, and a new rear wheel bearing was installed in February 2024. While it relies on four-wheel drum brakes for stopping, drivers are advised to maintain a careful distance on the road, embracing the vintage braking characteristics.

The cabin of this unique Bentley offers a delightful blend of classic aesthetics and functional design. A beautifully crafted wood-paneled dashboard, complete with an integrated glovebox and a central rearview mirror, sets a sophisticated tone. Essential gauges for speed, amperage, water temperature, and oil pressure are prominently displayed, providing crucial information to the driver. A substantial three-spoke steering wheel, positioned on the right-hand side as befits its British heritage, commands attention, while door storage pockets offer practical stowage for personal items. Although the clock, fuel gauge, and five-digit odometer are currently non-functional, the overall presentation of the interior speaks volumes about its preserved charm and bespoke craftsmanship.

This bespoke 1949 Bentley Mark VI Roadster stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic automobiles, reimagined for a new era of driving enjoyment. Its vibrant red finish, complemented by the tan leather upholstery, creates a visually stunning profile that demands attention. The period-correct wire-spoke wheels, adorned with Bentley-branded knock-off hubs, further enhance its authentic vintage racing aesthetic. This vehicle offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history that seamlessly blends opulent design with enhanced performance, inviting its next owner to embark on a truly unforgettable journey.

Experience the Legacy: American Luxury, Redefined.

Pioneering Engineering: Front-Wheel Drive and Advanced Safety Features

The Oldsmobile Toronado stood out as a premier luxury sports car of the 1960s and 70s, notable for its innovative use of front-wheel drive, a feature shared with its General Motors siblings, the Cadillac Eldorado and Buick Riviera. Introduced in 1966, the Toronado's production spanned four distinct generations until 1992, each contributing to its rich legacy. The second generation, produced from 1971 to 1978, introduced significant safety enhancements, including an early form of a third brake light positioned below the rear windshield and a precursor to modern airbags. These innovations underscore the Toronado's role as a testbed for safety technologies that would later become industry standards, cementing its place in automotive history.

The Dazzling Firethorn Red: An Exterior Masterpiece

This particular 1977 Oldsmobile Toronado boasts a stunning Firethorn Red finish that commands attention from every angle. This metallic hue, a hallmark of 1970s General Motors vehicles, was famously featured on the iconic Pontiac Firebird Trans Am. The Toronado wears it with equal elegance, exuding a distinct American luxury aesthetic. Its design, reminiscent of the Cadillac Eldorado, features a lengthy, broad body with gentle curves transitioning into a sharp, angular rear. Small wheels with thin white wall tires and chrome hubcaps perfectly complement its expansive profile, while square headlights, slender taillights, and robust bumpers define its classic 'land yacht' presence.

Sumptuous Comfort: The Brougham Interior

The 1977 Toronado Brougham trim elevates the driving experience to new levels of comfort and luxury. The cabin is adorned with plush, red cut-pile carpeting that extends into the footwells, perfectly matching the split 60/40 bench seat and its convenient folding armrest. Every interior detail, from the door panels to the dashboard, is bathed in a cohesive red, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The instrument panel is thoughtfully designed, offering a streamlined appearance that prioritizes functionality without overwhelming the driver. A matching two-spoke steering wheel, often accented with an American Flag cover, proudly embodies the quintessential American spirit of the 1970s.

Performance Dynamics: The V8 Engine Legacy

For the 1977 and 1978 models, the Toronado's original 455 cubic inch V8 engine was replaced with a smaller 403 cubic inch V8. This change was primarily driven by the need to meet evolving emissions regulations. While the downsized engine offered improved fuel efficiency, it still delivered a respectable 185 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, all channeled to the front wheels via a smooth three-speed automatic transmission. Although perhaps not the most powerful iteration of the Toronado, these engines provided ample capability and maintained the vehicle's reputation for a comfortable and refined ride, upholding its status as a luxury performer.

A Distinctive Place in Automotive Heritage

The Oldsmobile Toronado occupies a distinctive position in both American and General Motors' automotive history. It was a vehicle that fearlessly embraced novel and unconventional technologies, such as front-wheel drive and advanced safety systems, which subsequently became industry benchmarks. This particular 1977 model, with its captivating Firethorn Red finish and a luxurious Brougham interior, offers an unparalleled blend of comfort and style. The Toronado is not merely a car; it's a piece of history, and it could very well be the perfect addition to your collection.