1939 Bentley 4.25 Litre Derby MR Overdrive
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**Vendor supplied images**
Highlights
- Reluctant sale after 43 years of current ownership by a member of Persian royalty
- 43 year ownership
- Previously owned by a Scottish aristocrat
- Now in Spain
The Appeal
Production of Bentleys moved from Cricklewood to Derby after Rolls-Royce bought the company. These ‘Derby Bentleys’ were known as the ‘silent sports car’ on account of their spirited yet refined performance, coupled with their supremely smooth engines.
Originally, Derby-built Bentleys were fitted with a 3½-litre engine, but by the time this car was manufactured in 1939 this had been increased to 4¼ litres. With this being a late example of the model, it is fitted with overdrive as standard, which was very unusual at the time and makes this a very usable car on today’s roads.
This particular car is said to have been owned at one time by a Scottish-South African aristocrat, who enjoyed driving it to the races because he could set up his picnic on the bootlid. The car now resides in Spain and is in great condition, ready to be used.
The History and Paperwork
- MoT paperwork back to 1979
- Spanish registration papers
- Original accompanying owner’s manual
- Lots of hand-written invoices – in English, Spanish and Persian
The Interior
- Rear-hinged suicide doors
- Right-hand gear change
- Warmly patinated leather
As you would expect, this Bentley is a luxurious place to be. The leather seats and door cards are pleasantly mellowed by years of respectful use, and the rear-hinged doors add a touch of flair. There are, of course, areas of wear and scuffs which you would expect on a car of this age which has been used.
The polished walnut dashboard has the usual full complement of gauges, for the discerning driver to be fully in tune with the machine. Some of these are the original Bentey gauges, while some have been replaced
The large steering wheel features hand controls including ignition timing and suspension stiffness. Its commanding road presence and sweeping vista along the bonnet make this car truly a pleasure to drive. The cabin is even fitted with a heater, truly a luxury in its time.
The headlining is in good condition and the boot is commodious and clean. And with the gear lever and handbrake positioned to the right of the driver, the front passengers are afforded a generous amount of room.
The Exterior
- Green over Black paintwork
- Imposing road presence
- Repainted wings
The green over black paintwork appears to be in very presentable condition, with a few blemishes, chips and repairs having been acquired over the years. The accompanying photographs show that the wings have been restored and repainted.
There are some chips to the front of the bonnet, the paint has cracked a little at the bottom of the A pillars, and there are other minor chips and scratches.
Underneath, there is an overall layer of grease and oil – as you would find on any pre-war car which has been driven – this has served to protect the car from the elements. And leather gaiters have been fitted to the leaf springs to retain the grease for quiet running.
The wheels are shod with Michelin tyres which appear to have plenty of tread remaining.
The Mechanics
- Powerful 4¼-litre engine
- Overdrive fitted from new
- Capable of keeping up with modern traffic
In comparison with other pre-war cars, the Bentley offered here is a very usable vehicle. With its powerful six-cylinder engine and an overdrive gearbox, it will shrug off motorway speeds without fuss. The vendor has cared for it during his 42 years of ownership and is confident to drive it as intended.
The engine bay is an impressive sight, viewed from either side of the car. The generously proportioned air cleaner sits atop the engine, and signs that this is a high-end automobile abound, such as the fitting of twin ignition coils.
There is a slight leak from the radiator, which requires topping up every so often, but the owner reports no smoke from the exhaust.
These cars were engineered to a very high standard by Rolls-Royce. This is shown by how well this car still performs when you consider that it is over 80 years old.
Summary
This stately Bentley offers the very best in pre-war motoring. It has a towering presence on the road and exudes old-world charm and character.
But it is not a pristine show car. It is a car which has been driven, used, and looked after throughout its long years.
The next owner will be able to enjoy its spacious interior and powerful engine, as they look out over the bonnet towards that famous winged B radiator ornament.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1939
- Make Bentley
- Model 4.25 Litre Derby MR Overdrive
- Colour Green and Black
- Odometer 17,764 Miles
- Engine size 4257
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Nueva Andalucia
- Country Spain
18
bids
- Ma•••• £51,500 21/08/22
- mo•••• £51,000 21/08/22
- mo•••• £50,500 21/08/22
- An•••• £50,000 21/08/22
- mo•••• £41,000 21/08/22
- An•••• £40,000 21/08/22
- st•••• £37,000 20/08/22
- ma•••• £36,000 19/08/22
- Ma•••• £35,000 19/08/22
- ma•••• £32,000 18/08/22
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