1924 Bentley 3 Litre Four Seat Tourer.

Reg. No. JAU 276. Chassis No. 556. Engine No. 559

Engine: four cylinder in line, water-cooled monobloc, single overhead camshaft, bore 80 mm, stroke 149 mm, capacity 2,996 cc. Four speed right hand change gearbox; cone clutch; bevel reat axle. Semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear. Wheelbase 10ft 10in. Tyres 5.00 x 21in.

The throb of the four cylinder Bentley engine was first heard in the garage of a mews off Baker St in 1919 and it was not long before the new works were under construction in Oxgate Lane, Cricklewood. the first production model was the 3 litre and some 1,624 chassis left the works before production ceased in 1929. The Bentley team effort in the 1922 T.T. and the Duff/Clement victory at le Mans in 1924 built the foundation of a reputation which has become a legend.

Chassis No. 556 may well have started life as a closed car but is recorded in Michael Hay's Bentley book as re-registered and re-bodied in 1946. It left the works in Cricklewood in April 1924 and has at some stage been updated by the fitting of wellbase 21 in wheels, a feature which did not appear until 1926. The fabric covered body is well executed and in good condition. The seats are upholstered to a high standard in green leather, complimented by green carpets. Weather equipment is excellent, instrumentation is largely original and car is fitted with twin S.U. carburettors and Marchal headlamps.

The car has not seen recent use and would probably benefit from a service, however when last used was believed to be in good working order. Eligible for V.S.C.C. competition or ideal for continental touring events.

"My father purchased this as parts in late 60s early 70s. I may be able to recall who did much of the rebuild if required, I may even have the cost of these works. It was finished in the mid 70s and saw occasional use, until I got hold of it for weddings! I have numerous other rare vintage vehicles, which I used for this purpose. Unfortunately after his death in 1985, his second wife, my stepmother sold the car without hesitation. I always enjoyed driving and maintaining the vehicle, and sad to see it sold."