OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
Chassis No.
B5GA
The 4 1/4-Litre Bentley represented the final evolution of Bentley's celebrated Derby-era motorcars before the outbreak of World War II. Introduced in 1936 as a more powerful successor to the 3 1/2-Litre, it featured an enlarged inline six-cylinder engine that delivered stronger performance while preserving the refinement expected under Rolls-Royce ownership. Available with a wide array of elegant coachbuilt bodies from Britain's finest craftsmen, the 4 1/4-Litre became a favorite among discerning motorists seeking effortless touring, handsome styling, and exceptional engineering.
Documented by a large file of records, this Bentley has lived a fascinating and interesting life from the start. Chassis B5GA started life as a Bentley Motors experimental works chassis. Noted in the marque book, *The Derby Bentleys* by Alec Harvey-Bailey, it is his understanding this example was originally given chassis number B-23-AE. Copies of the factory records included with the sale note Ex Experimental at the bottom, explaining the chassis number sequence.
During this period, this chassis was draped in several body styles and equipped with a modified 3-1/2-litre engine. The engineers used this example to test various mechanical parts in pursuit of greater performance. After testing, this example was equipped with a new 4-1/4-litre engine, a Sports Saloon body, and presumably given its current chassis number and then sold in 1936 to a Mr. William Oscar Kennington, who was once the managing director and chairman of Delco-Remy-Hyatt.
By the 1970s, the current Van Plas Touring body could be found on this example, which was beautifully crafted by well-known coachbuilder Dirk Brochman of South Stoke, Oxfordshire. A very attractive Vanden Plas design, with its cutaway doors and fold flat windscreen, it is equally as impressive sitting still or in motion. This example was then exhibited in the Midland Motor Museum between 1988 and 1996. During this time, it received a tasteful mechanical overhaul which included a complete engine rebuild by Bentley specialist John Merryfield, a new radiator matric, new kingpins, a complete rebuild of the central lubrication system, new front brakes, and the installation of a stainless-steel exhaust. Further improvements followed with a rebuilt axle assembly featuring new bearings, revised differential gears, and the addition of overdrive for more relaxed high-speed touring.
So well sorted, B5GA partook in one of the oldest and most prestigious motorsport rallies in Europe seven consecutive years, the Monte Carlo Rally, and took victory during the 2001 campaign. Furthermore, B5GA has its FIVA International Identity Card and has participated in various Bentley Drivers Club events throughout Sweden and Denmark.
Accompanying this Bentley are copies of its factory records, its FIVA identification card, various registration records and club articles, and a set of exterior weather gear. Documents can be found on Kruse Auctions' website or at the Document Station during the auction and we encourage prospective buyers to review them.
This 1933 Bentley, with its well-built and elegant styling, upgraded mechanical capabilities, and fascinating period Bentley Motors history would make a remarkable and usable addition to further club, sporting events, and rallies.
* Originally used by Bentley Motors as an Experimental Works Chassis
* Documented with copies of original factory records, its FIVA identification card, and noted in the marque book, *The Derby Built Bentleys*
* Equipped with overdrive for more relaxed high-speed touring
* Seven-time veteran of the Monte Carlo Rally and 2001 event winner
* A very attractive Vanden Plas Tourer design ready for spirited outings and club events
From the Kruse Auctions
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