1935 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE STREAMLINE SPORTS SALOON
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1935 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE STREAMLINE SPORTS SALOON

細節
1935 BENTLEY 3½ LITRE STREAMLINE SPORTS SALOON
COACHWORK BY PARK WARD

Registration No. GMO 926
Chassis No. B14 DG
Engine No. C9 BA
Black over cream with fawn leather interior

Engine: six cylinder-in-line, pushrod overhead valves, twin SU carburettors, 3,669 cc; Gearbox: four speed manual; Suspension: semi-elliptic leaf spring front and rear; Brakes: four wheel servo-assisted mechanically operated drum. Right hand drive.

When they introduced their new 3.5 litre Bentley in 1933, the company's catalogue stated, 'There is at the present time an ever increasing demand for a car of moderate size which can carry in comfort up to four passengers and at the same time maintain a high average speed. Such a car must combine the seemingly incompatible qualities of high engine power and low chassis weight with silence and good riding qualities.' It was indeed a new kind of sports-car, combining as it did open road verve with the understated good manners of a formal luxury car in town. More than sheer performance, the Derby-built Bentley offered silence and a finely judged blend of dynamic qualities. Its steering would have been considered light in a much smaller car, the servo assisted brakes required little effort to slow the car from high speeds, cornering power was high, the ride excellent. Clad with a wide range of lovingly hand-crafted open and closed fast touring and sports bodies from the best coachbuilders, the 3.5 was an appealing package and sold briskly.

Chassis B14 DG was one of a handful of these early 3½ litre chassis that were delivered with streamlined sports saloon coachwork constructed by Park Ward. At a time when coachbuilders were turning their attentions to an aspect that in modern times is considered essential, they were one of a number of companies that within the next five years would focus their styling more and more on this aspect as the generation gave birth to some of the most striking all enveloping designs, exemplified most notably by the Bentley run built to the order of Embiricos in 1938. Park Ward are understood to have made 8 such bodies on these chassis, with varying detail specification, some having rear quarter lights or not as on this car. This is probably a cleverer line because in addition to its 'fast back' the lack of quarter lights actually provides light privacy for the rear passengers. In keeping with the flowing design, it has a low, raked windscreen, the wings are slightly pontooned, and the spare wheel is hidden in the boot. The original build sheets record such details including 'special' front wings, and the wrap around 'J.R.' rear bumper. Completing its specification was the sunroof, which it still has.

Originally sold new to a Mr. N. Rycroft, of Coventry, it was first registered 'ACE 199' and livered in two shades of green, with matched upholstery leather. The car came into the present ownership some 7 years ago, by which time it was painted a single maroon colour and wore the registration 'GMO 926' which it retains today. On acquisition, the car was repainted to the present livery, which perhaps accentuates its styling better. At some stage the interior has been refurbished in cream leather, which it would appear was matched to a period scalloped pattern. Aside from its repaint work carried out has included a full brake overhaul (correctly resetting its geometry), radiator re-core, rewiring, including the sensible addition of modern indicator lights and cylinder head repair all of which have been undertaken to a professional standard.

Cosmetically,the car shows some age, the paintwork has various chips and blemishes almost unavoidable with use, while the interior is undamaged but reflects use with some wear also. Mechanically, on inspection the car started promptly and showed good oil pressure. Christie's specialists did not have the opportunity to exercise the Bentley, and it has been little used by its current owner over the past 7 years, during which it has covered under 4,000 miles. It has however remained ready to use throughout this time.

This interesting and rare Derby Bentley, represents an early example of streamline styling whilst providing comfortable four seat touring. In our opinion it may be easily be used 'as is', but in the long term may benefit from some freshening of its condition. With the many supporting events for these cars and plethora of specialists these cars, the Bentley would provide excellent usable pre-war motoring.
注意事項
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium, which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.