Lot details Registration No: DGF 417 Chassis No: 118-EF Mot Expiry: None
At the dawn of the 1930s with the reverberations of 'Black Friday' (29/10/1929) being felt worldwide, competition between carmakers grew increasingly desperate. Thus, while WO Bentley sought to refine his 8 litre into the ultimate luxury carriage, Rolls-Royce responded by dabbling with a sports car concept. Their concerns as to the branding of 'Peregrine' (as the project was labelled internally) were alleviated by Bentley's collapse in 1931. Outflanking rivals D. Napier & Son, they acquired Bentley wholesale (including WO's services) for £125,257. With a department brief that "the new car must be as unlike the Rolls-Royce models as possible" Derby engineers set about preparing 'Peregrine' for flight. Built on a 'double-dropped' chassis carrying all round semi-elliptic leaf sprung suspension and assisted drum brakes, the new car used a tuned version of the Rolls-Royce 20/25's 3,669cc ohv straight-six. Boasting twin SU carburettors, a wilder cam, strengthened con-rods and a higher compression ratio, this revamped unit developed around 120bhp (a fifty percent improvement) without compromising on refinement. Equipped with the 20/25's four-speed manual gearbox, high-geared worm and nut steering and hydraulic dampers, the resultant 'Silent Sportscar' - as the Bentley 3½ litre soon became known - was unveiled during the August 1933 Ascot Races.
Finished in black with fawn leather upholstery, this particular 'barn find' example has been dry stored for the last thirty years. In the current ownership all that time, it is reported to be in "self-starting, running and driving" order with "no knocks" coming from the engine. Requiring general re-commissioning and cosmetic refurbishment, its bodywork is nevertheless described as being in "good condition" having benefited from wing repairs prior to being laid-up (albeit its boot hinges apparently need re-fitting). Whilst, its electrical equipment is said to need attention, the vendor further believes its gearbox, interior trim and chassis to be in good fettle. Sporting handsome four-door all-aluminium coachwork by Hooper, this late 3½ litre car (most owners were opting for the larger 4¼ litre engine by the time it was first registered in London on 14th October 1936) has the makings of a rewarding project. Riding on wire wheels, it is offered for sale with V5C registration document (though, we are informed that its original mascot is being retained as a memento).
PLEASE NOTE: The year of this vehicle is 1936 and not 1934 as stated in the catalogue.
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