Maharaja’s Bentley Mk VI wins its class at Burghley

Maharaja’s Bentley Mk VI wins its class at Burghley

A return to Hampton Court allowed 73 year-old photos to be recreated


This colourful Bentley Mark VI, soon to be featured in more detail in Rolls-Royce & Bentley Driver, won Class 10 at the RREC’s Annual Rally and Concours on July 3rd. Its condition charmed the judges while many visitors were equally taken with its fascinating Indian history.

Chassis B294EY was coachbuilt by Hooper & Co for the then second-richest man in the world, His Highness the Maharaja of Mysore. This car was delivered in 1949 with a host of bespoke features and regalia such a such illuminated shields and plaques in 24k gold and silver, his coat of arms on the doors, flagstaffs, cabinets and folding trays, and a cut-glass toiletries set with silver tops. The unusual colour scheme gave it the nickname ‘the rhubarb and custard car’. MYSORE 1 has previously won Best of Show at the 21 Gun Salute Concours d’Elegance, and also the prestigious Duke of Marlborough Award at Salon Privé. It is one of the highlights in the collection of owner Yohan Poonawalla, who received the Rob Emberson Trophy from the RREC’s Chairman, David Wyld.

‘I am happy the car was judged as the finest in its class from a line-up of very impressive Bentleys,’ said a visibly delighted Mr Poonawalla. ‘I see this as a testament to the dedication and passion of my hardworking team and would like to thank everyone involved with this car.’

After the win, the car was taken for a photoshoot at Hampton Court Palace to recreate some black and white period photos at the same location 73 years earlier. The car’s final outing before leaving for India will be a visit to Crewe, the place of its birth and the home of Bentley Motors Limited.

The Poonawalla family with the victorious Bentley at Burghley House

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