Hi all, I'm contemplating next moves on a '54 Bentley R type.
I sought a professional appraisal for a gorgeous original/survivor R type, left hand drive, automatic transmission, very conservatively modified for street legality- all mods can be easily undone to restore the car back to original. Also, the serial number is number 1. As in a string of 0s followed by a 1.
Only a couple of minor dings, incredible condition all around. Was exported out of the damp UK so the condition is astronomically better than any of the r types I've taken for a test drive. It drives like the day it was made and starts like a dream every time. It has been in a climate controlled garage since the 80s.
The appraiser gave me an estimated value a hair lower than what run of the mill same year r types are selling for in my area. It didn't feel quite right for the US market, I think there would be a premium on left hand drive and auto transmission at the very least.
I felt like the appraisal report was sloppy and the comps weren't comparable at all, and I am not emotionally attached to this car. I'm actually hesitant to use it for the intended purpose I had in mind when I bought it- weddings- because it feels like too special of a specimen to let drunk brides puke in.
My idea was to find it a new owner who doesn't want an r type for rentals. This thing feels like a museum piece and I don't want to ruin it.
Should I get a different appraiser on this? Any recommendations?