"Writing book about late father Douglas Wilson-Spratt. YM 57, MH 4827, FBL 732 I know he owned and have many pictures of those and others. Checking on KR 6157, HR 9538, but brother-in-law Botsford may have owned or friend John Cable. Appreciate any help in dates and details?"

This car was sold by Sotheby's on Nov. 25, 1996 at the RAF Museum in Hendon

1931 Bentley 4½ Litre XT Series Four Seat Tourer
Reg. No: KR 6157 (TBC); Chassis No: XT3628; Engine No: XT3628

A happy blend of the 3 litre car and the Silent Six created the legendary 4½ litre Bentley which made its debut in 1927. The versatility of the car was remarkable as it displayed qualities of flexibility when married to formal saloon coachwork. However, with open sporting coachwork it continued Bentley's competition record, notably at Le Mans. The 4½ litre car made an inauspicious debut there in 1927, leading the way into the 'White House' crash. Later efforts were more successful with racing involvement assisting both the development and marketing of the car.

The XT series of 4½ litres were the final batch to leave the Cricklewood factory. Twelve cars in all were constructed on the 10 foot 10 inch chassis, and they featured the heavy-crank engine as used in the 'Blower' coupled to C-type gearbox driving through the back axle of 15:53 ratio, in addition the late-type front axle with jacking pad was fitted.

Originally delivered to a Mr. Brice of Rochester. The car was registered with the Bentley Drivers' Club in 1946 by which time Vanden Plas open coachwork had replaced the two door saloon body by Wylder & Co. originally specified. A number of owners are noted by the club before the car disappeared into the current ownership in 1956.

This extremely original motor car is finished in dark green livery with the original upholstery in green leather, with matching green carpeting. Lighting is provided by Lucas DB 100 Bullsesye headlamps and the dashboard is equipped with Smiths instruments including a large diameter speedometer and rev counter.

Believed to be the sixth to last car built, XT 3628 has not been seen in Bentley circles for some forty years.

An attractive and well-patinated example of the finest in British vintage sports motoring.

At the time of going to press Sotheby's are still awaiting the ruling of HM Customs & Excise as to the rate of VAT that will apply to this vehicle upon import. The VAT symbol shown in the catalogue is for the higher (17 1/2%) rate. HM Custom & Excise may rule that the lower (2 1/2%) rate is applicable. Please refer to the Car Department for further information on this matter.

"This Bentley was owned by my father, Guy Makin, of Sands Cottage, Whalley, Lancs, until December 1956 when he sold it in London. We subsequently heard that it had gone to Canada. I don't know when he bought it, but can find out. I believe that we have early photos of the car, although probably black & white. I would be delighted to know where it is now. My father is unfortunately no longer alive."