1923 Bentley 3 Litre TT Replica Tourer

Bentley produced seventy-one examples of their TT Replica models. These models were produced following the Bentley Team's 2nd, 4th and 5th place finishes in the 1922 Tourist Trophy Race. Their success in the race convinced the company to produce a replica model. The TT Replicas rode on a 117.5-inch wheelbase and were fitted with a close-ratio gearbox. The top speed was in the neighborhood of 90 mph.

W.O. Bentley delivered the first TT Replica to his good friend F. Gordon Crosby who had designed the winged B radiator badge and designed the three-liter radiator itself.

This Tourer wears a recent restoration by Northumberland Engineering Inc. in New York. It has been retrofitted with period front wheels, steering upgraded to 4.5-liter specification, removable steering damper, and dual SU 'sloper' carburetors. There are correct Thee-Liter Tourer sidelamps and tail-lamps, and later Lucas headlamps.

The 299cc four-cylinder OHC engine produces 80 horsepower and powers the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox. There are four-wheel mechanical brakes and a front beam axle with a live-rear setup.

There are 21-inch wheels and Blockley tires. There is a period Shell gas can mounted on the running board, modern seat belts and a battery cut-off switch.

In 2010, this vehicle was offered for sale at the Pebble Beach Auction presented by Gooding & Company. The car was estimated to sell for $225,000 - $275,000. The car would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2010