1936 Bentley 4¼ Liter Tourer

The Derby Bentley was introduced towards the beginning of the 1930s and by the end of that decade had received a number of significant developments. In 1936 it had received an increase in bore size upping the capacity to 4257cc. This new engine was shared with the equivalent Rolls-Royce (the 25/30hp), and given twin SU carburetors, a raised compression ratio and a more sporting camshaft. The 4¼-Liter model offered more power than before while retaining the modern chassis, proven gear-change and servo-assisted brakes.

The Derby Bentley was an exclusive, coachbuilt automotive with just 2,442 examples manufactured with nearly 50 percent of those receiving coachwork from Park Ward.

This particular example was delivered new by Pass and Joyce to H.C. Bradley of Wolverhampton as a Park Ward Saloon, bearing registration number DRF700. At some point in the 1950s the Park Ward saloon coachwork was replaced with the Vanden Plas style tourer body which it wears today. Produced by noted coachbuilders Horsfield of Halifax, the body was formed from aluminum and given four razor-edge cycle fenders. The car was used regularly in England until 1984 when it was acquired by a New Hampshire based collector. The Bentley lived in the same New Hampshire ownership until just recently.

Currently, the car is in good running order with an older restoration. The engine is a 4257cc 6-cylinder overhead valve unit fitted with twin SU side-draft carburetors. There is a 4-speed synchromesh transmission and 4-wheel Servo Boosted mechanical brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2015