£285,000
This fantastic vintage Bentley carries handsome fabric covered Vanden Plas style Sports coachwork, finished in black, with full wings, a vertical screen, dual side mounted spares and Oxblood hide. It is highly detailed, boasts a superb specification and remains a ‘matching number car’.
Having a fully known and continuous history from new, chassis LT 1584 originally carried Harrison Saloon coachwork and was supplied new in January 1927 by Grosvenor Garage, Bournemouth (their supply plate is fitted to the dashboard) to S B Dearkin. With only two owners following, works’ service records indicate that in 1933 the car had covered 76,975 miles before the car was laid up in 1939 (less coachwork) and did not return to the road until 1994!
Being a late model 3 Litre on a 10’10” chassis it incorporates many of the improvements applied to the model including twin Sloper carburettors, the later type integral sump, and the desirable low ratio steering gear (10.3:1) as also fitted to the 4 ½ Litre. Still fitted to the car is a Barker dipping mechanism and luggage rack, believed to be original to this car.
Restored between 1986 and 1994 and being highly detailed, the car has undergone substantial subsequent work by Wayne Huckle, including a complete engine overhaul, converting it to a 3 – 4 ½ specification using a new cylinder block, new Phoenix crankshaft/conrods and shell bearings. It also has fitted a tall final drive ratio making this into an outstanding touring car. A huge history file accompanies the car, including an old style logbook and detailed restoration records.
The 3 – 4 ½ configuration offers the perfect balance between agility and power. This example is in superb order, with an interesting and known history, and all matching numbers.
Engine number: LT 1577
Switch box chassis number: LT 1584
Front axle number: LT 1584
Steering column number: LT 1584
Registration number: OT 3166 (original)
