Rolls Royce Motors, following its 1931 acquisition of Bentley, used its 20/25 HP model as the template for the fresh, new 3½-Litre Bentley. Unlike the Rolls-Royce, the new Bentley’s higher-compression engine was fitted with a cross-flow cylinder head and Bentley’s signature SU carburetors. The “Silent Sports Car” was introduced at Ascot in August 1933 and was warmly received by the press and prospective buyers alike. When the 1933 Motor Show at Olympia opened, the Bentley stand featured two Park Ward-bodied cars, a drophead coupe, and a car like the one offered here today, a four-door sports saloon.

The list of those who purchased this all-new “owner-driver” Bentley reads like a “who’s who” and includes British royalty, the editor of The Autocar, several Indian Maharajahs, Prince Ali Khan (who ordered several), team-racing drivers, land-speed record-holder Sir Malcolm Campbell, and the novelist P.B. Wodehouse. A total of 1,177 were built.

As recorded in the definitive work by Stanley Sedgwick, All the Pre-War Bentleys - As New, chassis B160CR was ordered for Aldrich Blake, Esq., Guards Club in London for delivery in October 1934. The original build records validate that it was supplied by special order with a non-standard fog lamp, wing driving mirror, and interior driving mirror.

Rolls-Royce Foundation files indicate that the car left England when it was acquired by a Californian, George Kerrigan. It was sold in the mid-1980s to Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiast Charles LaRocco, who undertook an extensive body-off, ground-up, correct mechanical and cosmetic restoration. The restoration was completed in 2002, and it went on to receive numerous First in Class and Best of Show awards at many concours and club events. It was ultimately presented the Classic Car Club of America’s most prestigious award, Premier status, judged by CCCA for cars with no fewer than 97 points out of a possible 100. The highly coveted crown badge remains on the car.

The current owner, a Rolls-Royce and Bentley team judge at Pebble Beach and other specialized events, acquired the car in 2007, after it completed a CCCA week-long caravan tour, and it has since trophied at every concours and CCCA event it has entered.

The graceful four-door saloon body is finished in a unique Heather Grey, a hue with whispery soft green undertones. The grey-green interior was redone in the spring of 2015 by a marque specialist. The seats have been expertly stitched using supple, era-correct Connolly hides, pleated as original. Fitted Wilton wool carpet trimmed in leather completes the luxurious yet sporting stance of this very special motor car. The boot interior features the same leather-piped carpeting as the interior, complete with the original wooden tool tray that pulls out from the top of the boot. Correct Ace Deluxe polished wheel discs and a rear-mounted Continental spare complete the look. The fortunate new owner will receive the car complete with factory build record, maintenance, and restoration documentation owner’s handbook; copies of articles and photos from The Flying Lady and club publications; and most importantly, a complete set of hand and road tools.

Sure to be welcomed at the finest motor car events, this lovely Bentley, faithfully restored and meticulously maintained, represents classic motoring at its best. It is ready for the next enthusiast to enjoy on the road, at club events, and on the show field.