1926 Bentley 3-Litre Speed Model
First registered in Shropshire in July 1926, this Speed Model Bentley was fitted with Vandan Plas touring coachwork (job no. 1209) and painted dark blue over black wings with black interior. Just prior to the second world war it was dismantled in preparation for a major overhaul, and remained that way until liberated from a basement in Watford in some thirty years later.At that point the VdP body was rebuilt (exactly as original) and the car reassembled by its engineer owner, and painted Amaranth, a Bentley factory colour. Since the mid sixties it has had just three long term owners.
Records shows that at some time in its history, prior to the war, it had an earlier replacement engine (No.82) fitted. This has since been uprated to Speed Model specification. It has a split sump, twin sloper SU carburettors, a 'B' gearbox and is running on 21in wheels. It has a high ratio back axle (3.53), giving approximately 29 mph per 1000 rpm, for easy cruising. Recent work includes the fitting of new exhaust valves, guides and cam followers, and new piston rings. All the bright work has been re-nickled, and the hood and hood bag have been replaced in Mohair.
The car has been used regularly and has completed trouble-free tours of Ireland and the Picos Mountains in Spain. In good mechanical condition with bags of patina, this is a stylish, affordable eminently useable vintage Bentley.
£POA
