1923 Bentley 3 Litre

For Sale 1923 Bentley 3 Litre

Chassis Number 302

Original Engine Number 307 (Current Engine Number 353)

This Bentley arrived in Australia November 1923, the Bentley Service Records indicate that the actual delivery date to the first owner was July 1923 in the U. K. but there is no record of registration or body style. At some point in its life (1940’s/ 50’s) the body was removed and the chassis shortened to 9’9½”, the car also received a sporting body in the early 1960’s but information is scarce. The car changed hands several times after this as a project until my father collected the car in 1983 of which only the chassis, radiator and gearbox remained. Upon acquiring the car, he embarked on a lengthy process of sourcing missing components and when these were not available patterns were made and the parts manufactured. Whilst sourcing parts Engine #353 was located in New Zealand and it was at this stage that he embarked on a lengthy restoration which was completed in the early 2000’s.

During the restoration a beautifully proportioned fabric Vanden Plas two door Le Mans style body and Le Mans style fuel tank were manufactured with a complementing beige leather interior, Mercedes Benz carpet and a hood in Haartz canvas which has never been used and hence is in new condition.

All running gear was restored/ repaired using new or reconditioned components.

Recent works have included an upgrade to a 4 ½ Litre water pump, new half shafts, rear hubs and a new CHV Engineering starter motor (which I must say is an impressive unit).

As can be the seen in the photos the car presents very well and is in excellent condition. It drives very well as is but as it is not an original matching numbers car it would also be the perfect candidate for a 4. 5 or 5. 3 Litre upgrade which would be the ultimate specification. The car has been a delight to own over the past nine years but due to pursuing other projects and money not growing on trees unfortunately, it is regrettably time to pass this fantastic automobile onto another custodian who will hopefully enjoy it as much as I have and my father before me.

Please contact me for full details and specification.

The car is listed in the excellent book called Vintage Bentleys in Australia on page 245.

As this is a private sale the vehicle is offered with no warranty and is also offered on a As Is Where Is basis.

NB: Partial trades may be considered for the appropriate vehicle.

Price is negotiable.