Chassis Number: B136 AH Registration Number: TBA The first product of the 1931 Rolls-Royce takeover of Bentley, the 3 2 Litre, was introduced in 1933 and was essentially a sporting version of the Rolls-Royce 20/25. As such it used the shorter chassis of the stillborn 'smaller' Rolls-Royce, codenamed Peregrine, mated to a more powerful version of the 20/25's six-cylinder engine with new crossflow cylinder head and camshaft, twin SU carburettors, twin fuel pumps and single coil ignition. + Coupled to a four-speed synchromesh gearbox and a hypoid bevel rear axle, the latter a first on a car produced by Rolls-Royce. The 105 hp 3.699 cc engine gave the 3 ½ liter over 90 mph performance. Notably, this first Derby Bentley was also the first to be marketed as 'The Silent Sports Car', such was its considerable refinement. The 3½ Litre quickly gained a reputation for speed and fine handling combined with the elegance of its hand-built bodies supplied by several leading coachbuilders on saloon, drophead coupe and touring models, and as such found favour with many owner-drivers. Few used the 3 ½ litre for racing, although notable results include second place in the Ulster TT with Eddie Hall's hat trick. The separate chassis, complete with centralised lubrication system, used leaf springs and hydraulic shock absorbers front and rear, while the brakes were actuated by Rolls-Royce's gearbox-driven mechanical servo. During the 3 ½ Litre's three-year production life, detailed changes were made, including adjustable shock absorbers in 1935. + Originally ordered by WLP Miesegaes and delivered on July 7, 1934 chassis number B136AH, with bodywork by Freestone and Webb, first found its way to the United States of America. However, it has since been exported back to the UK with all applicable duties paid. Relatively recent work includes a complete engine overhaul in 1988 with approximately 22.000 miles since then. Additions also include a stainless steel exhaust system, a new clutch (3500 miles old) and within the last 7000 miles the car has also received new rear axle half shafts, new higher speed rings and pinion, re-valved rear springs and new bracket pins and bushings. The interior has also been overhauled over the past fifteen years. Highlights include new black leather upholstery and gray carpets. This beautiful car also features a sunroof and a spacious trunk for touring purposes. The car also comes with an extremely rare, complete original tool kit. This beautiful early coachbuilt 3 2 Liter is also featured in the book of the same name; The Silent Sports Car by Michael Ellman-Brown.

American documentation