‘Taking all things into consideration, I would rather own this Bentley car than any car produced under that name’ WO Bentley.

In 1931 Bentley Motors were purchased by Rolls Royce, securing the legacy of the Bentley tradition.

In 1933 the 3 ½ litre became the first Bentley produced under this new ownership.

The manufacture of the cars was transferred to the Derby site, hence this era of vehicles becoming known as ‘Derby Bentleys’.

The 3 ½ litre was designed to maintain the associated sporting heritage of the Bentley, whilst incorporating more of the marque luxury of Rolls Royce.

The resulting mechanical fruition became known for its confident and wieldy performance; Sir Malcolm Campbell, of racing prestige, once wrote of it: ‘Its low build, its graceful lines, and yet sturdy appearance, all make for a car capable of high speed, combined with the utmost safety and comfort.’ Only 1177 models were ever produced, and only two of these were three-position drophead coupe’s, with coachwor...