Bentley that was once ‘one of the fastest cars in the world’ selling for £128,000… but there’s a catch
A LEGENDARY Bentley is set to sell for an eye-watering £128,000… but it has just one slight drawback.
The motor was once one of the fastest cars in the world when it was released 90 years ago – boasting a top speed of 137mph and with a 0-60mph acceleration of 10 seconds.
The once-great racer, known as the Blower Bentley, even broke the lap record at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Now auction house RM Sotheby are selling one of the rare cars at their British Classics Online auction on February 28.
Unfortunately, the listing is being sold part way through a restoration project – with this particular iteration missing its engine.
The antique whip currently only has its front and rear axles as well as a gearbox and most of the bodywork.
The summary of the listing reads: “A rolling chassis project with correct modifications for accepting a supercharged 4½-Litre engine.
“A fine platform from which to potentially build a ferociously quick Blower specification Bentley.”
RM Sotheby
“A fine platform from which to potentially build a ferociously quick Blower specification Bentley.
“Fitted with front and rear axles, a gearbox, and a reproduction body in the style of a Vanden Plas Le Mans Tourer.”
The listing reiterates the model’s numerous motorsport honours -included 24 Hours of Le Mans heroics.
The listing adds: “This legendary model became better known as the ‘Blower Bentley’ and is arguably still the most famous car produced with a ‘winged B’ adorning the radiator.
“Despite the deceptively simple exterior appearance of the supercharger mounted proudly out front, the modifications required were quite substantial, particularly for the chassis.
“The front cross member in the engine bay was no longer a flat-topped item but curved to allow fitment of the supercharger.”
Describved as a “rare and exciting project”, the motor is just a supercharged 4½-Litre engine away from being fully restored to its former glory.