Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Bentley

Bentley Motors Limited is a British manufacturer of luxury automobiles and high-performance grand tourers, founded in 1919 by W.O. Bentley. Known for engineering excellence, handcrafted luxury, and motorsport success, Bentley has become one of the most prestigious names in the automotive world. From dominating the 1920s Le Mans races to producing some of the fastest luxury cars in the modern era, Bentley’s history is a blend of speed, craftsmanship, and prestige.

Founding and Early Years (1919–1924)

W.O. Bentley established Bentley Motors in Cricklewood, North London, with the aim of building “a fast car, a good car, the best in its class.” The first car, the 3 Litre, debuted in 1919, though production began in 1921.

Bentley 3 Litre

• Advanced four-cylinder engine with an overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder.
• Known for reliability and high speed over long distances.
• Quickly established Bentley as a serious competitor in endurance racing.

The Bentley Boys and Le Mans Dominance (1924–1930)

In the 1920s, a group of wealthy British racing enthusiasts known as the “Bentley Boys” championed the marque in competition. Their daring driving and glamorous lifestyle became part of Bentley’s legend.

Le Mans Victories

• First win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1924 with the 3 Litre.
• Four consecutive wins from 1927 to 1930 with the 3 Litre Super Sports, 4½ Litre, and Speed Six.
• The Bentley Speed Six became a legendary endurance racing car.

Iconic Models of the Era

• 4½ Litre “Blower” Bentley – Supercharged version, famously driven by Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin.
• 6½ Litre Speed Six – Twice winner at Le Mans.

Financial Trouble and Rolls-Royce Takeover (1931)

Despite racing success, the Great Depression hit Bentley hard. In 1931, the company went into receivership and was acquired by Rolls-Royce. Under Rolls-Royce ownership, Bentley production moved to Derby, and the brand was repositioned as a high-performance luxury marque.

The Derby Bentleys (1933–1939)

Known for refinement and elegance, these included models like the 3½ Litre and 4¼ Litre. They were marketed as “The Silent Sports Car” — blending speed with Rolls-Royce-level luxury.

Post-War Era and Crewe Production (1946–1998)

After WWII, production shifted to Crewe, Cheshire. Bentley models shared chassis and mechanicals with Rolls-Royce cars but retained a sportier character.

Notable Post-War Models

• Mark VI (1946) – First Bentley with a standard pressed-steel body.
• S Series – Luxurious saloons of the 1950s and 1960s.
• Bentley T-series – Sister car to the Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, with independent suspension and disc brakes.

In this period, Bentley sales were often overshadowed by Rolls-Royce, and the brand’s sporting identity diminished.

Revival of Performance Image (1980s–1990s)

In the 1980s, under Rolls-Royce Motors, Bentley regained a performance edge with models like the Bentley Mulsanne Turbo, restoring speed and driving excitement to the brand.

Important Models

• Mulsanne Turbo and Turbo R – Powerful luxury saloons that re-established Bentley’s performance credentials.
• Continental R – Sleek, high-speed coupé launched in the 1990s.

Volkswagen Group Ownership (1998–Present)

In 1998, the Volkswagen Group acquired Bentley, while Rolls-Royce passed to BMW. Volkswagen invested heavily in modernising Bentley’s lineup and facilities, leading to a global renaissance.

Key Modern Models

• Continental GT (2003) – Luxury grand tourer with W12 power, blending performance with opulence.
• Flying Spur – Four-door luxury saloon with sports car performance.
• Bentayga – Bentley’s first SUV, combining luxury and off-road capability.
• Continental GT Speed – High-performance evolution of the GT line.

Motorsport Return

Bentley returned to racing in the 2000s, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2003 with the Bentley Speed 8.

Craftsmanship and Brand Identity

Bentley continues to combine traditional British craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Each car is hand-finished at the Crewe factory, with extensive options for personalisation.

Conclusion

From W.O. Bentley’s first 3 Litre to the modern Continental GT, Bentley has blended performance, luxury, and engineering excellence for over a century. Its legacy is one of speed, craftsmanship, and prestige — a heritage that continues to evolve under Volkswagen Group ownership.