1932 Bentley 8-Litre Short Wheelbase Fixed Head Coupe

This 1932 Bentley 8-Liter Short Chassis Fixed Head Coupe with coachwork by The Mayfair Carriage Company, Ltd., was offered for sale at the 2007 RM Auctions held in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was estimated to sell for $1,000,000 - $1,300,000. The car is powered by a 7983cc overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine with four-valves per cylinder and dual carburetors, capable of producing 220 horsepower. It has a four-speed manual gearbox with four-wheel servo assisted drum brakes. Its elegant coachwork rests atop a 144-inch wheelbase and carries chassis number YX 5124.

This two-door Fixed Head Coupe is one of the few 8-Liter Bentley's to be given a sporty persona. It is the second to last 8-Liter constructed, meaning it is one of the last Bentley's to be built before the company was acquired by Rolls-Royce.

The vehicles first owner was Mr. C. G. Hayward. Mr. H.J. Thomas, the Director of the Bristol Aeroplane Company, was the vehicles second owner. While in his care, the 21-inch wheels were removed and replaced with 19-inch wheels. Also, the fenders and running board were modified to accommodate tool boxes. From 1940 through 1948, the car was not driven and taken off the road.

The car passed through a few more owners throughout the years. In the late 1950s it was owned by Captain G.C. Blundell, a British Naval war hero. It remained in his possession for over twenty years.

In the mid-1980s, the car was treated to a complete, ground-up restoration and brought back to its original configuration and glory.

Since that time, the car has graced many concours and automotive events, often leaving with many prestigious awards. At the 1985 Kensington Garden Concours it was awarded the 'Best Vintage Bentley.'

From new, the car has traveled over 250,000 miles, though its mechanical components have been rebuilt. Since the restoration was performed in the 1980s, it is no longer a 100-point restoration car. It does have some signs of wear, though it is still mechanically and cosmetically impressive.

At auction, the vehicle did find a new owner, but sold for slightly less than the estimated value. This 8-Liter Bentley nearly topped the one-million dollar mark, selling for $962,500.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2007