1926 Bentley 3-4½-Litre Tourer Vanden Plas Speed Model

Engine No. AX1656The first model created by the brand just two years after its founding by Walter Owen Bentley, the 3 Litre quickly established itself as a complete and highly regarded automobile among pre-war gentlemen drivers. It was a remarkable achievement for a standard production car at the time, especially as its performance came with an unusually high level of reliability. The 3 Litre's handling and overall dynamic qualities were a revelation, particularly in its short chassis version, fitted with the popular four-seater touring body.The 3 Litre secured Bentley's place in motorsport history by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 1924 and 1927, followed closely in 1928 by the more powerful 4½-Litre, which went on to claim victory at Le Mans in its turn. At the time, all Bentleys left the factory as rolling chassis, to be completed by the customer's preferred coachbuilder. Vanden Plas, a specialist in luxurious versions of series-production automobiles, was Bentley's favored coachbuilder, and clients were often directed to them. Their refined and elegant coachwork became closely associated with the early identity of the Bentley marque.DE1212, a short chassis 3-Litre Speed Model, was first registered on 14 July 1926, under the number HU6858, fitted with aluminum-skinned tourer coachwork by Vanden Plas.Owned by a succession of dedicated enthusiasts, all known and listed in 'Bentley: The Vintage Years' by Dr. Clare Hay, the car has been meticulously maintained and upgraded for continued use. The substantial file accompanying the car, along with prior research, documents not only its known ownership history, including Chris Pack's 42-year ownership starting in the 1960s, but also mechanical work dating back to the 1930s. Following an engine failure, in 1988, the car underwent a documented conversion to 4½-Litre specification. Crankshaft, camshaft, and connecting rods were acquired from Phoenix. A 4½-Litre block, valve chest, and rocker boxes were sourced through BDC Spares.A significant overhaul took place in 1999, during which the body was removed, and both the engine and gearbox were rebuilt. Between 2005 and 2012, further significant work was undertaken totaling nearly £60,000, including the fitting of a 60.5-liter fuel tank, an engine restoration, a brake and spring overhaul, and new shock absorbers. Just prior to its appearance at the prestigious Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace in 2014, a series of improvements totaling £47,000 was carried out by renowned W.O. Bentley specialists N.D.R. Ltd. These included the installation of a new steering box, a new Laycock (J-Type) electric overdrive, and twin electric fuel pumps.Maintained and upgraded for proper use, DE1212 is not merely a treasured addition from the Walter Owen era to any collection, but an invitation to embrace extraordinary moments at events where all generations gather, bound by a spirit of passion and speed, enveloped in the rich scents of warm engine oil, fuel vapors, and aged leather whether rain falls or winds blow.