Description
The 3-Litre represents W. O. Bentley’s original vision of ‘a fast car, a good car, the best in its class’ brought to life. It stayed in production from 1921 to 1929 and won countless races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1924 and 1927.
Bentley went on to win Le Mans an additional three times, giving a total of five victories over an eight year period. An extremely commendable achievement considering that the company was only founded in 1919.
The specification of the 3 Litre was then and still is impressive. Drawing from his locomotive engineering background W. O. designed an engine with an overhead camshaft, four valves per cylinder and twin plug ignition.
Chassis 858 as was often the case began life as a saloon and supplied new to the first owner Henry Woodham. Exactly when the original body was removed is not known though there are pictures in the file showing it fitted in period. In more recent times it has been the subject of extensive restoration from the chassis upwards encompassing both mechanical and cosmetic work. Now presents well with pleasing replica VdP coachwork with comfortable maroon leather interior. The engine and gearbox perform well and it would make a very enjoyable entrant to many tours and rallies.
