Description

The Bentley 4.5 Litre Vanden Plas is an iconic representation of British pre-war motoring elegance and performance. Produced between 1927 and 1931, this model combined Bentley’s robust engineering with the craftsmanship of the famed coachbuilder Vanden Plas, known for their finely proportioned, lightweight bodies tailored for both road and racing use.

The car was powered by a formidable 4,398 cc inline-four engine, featuring a single overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder—quite advanced for its time. The naturally aspirated version produced around 110 horsepower, offering strong performance and impressive reliability, particularly on long-distance tours or competitive rallies.

Vanden Plas coachwork was typically configured in an open four-seater touring style, with minimalistic design elements that emphasized function and aerodynamic flow. The body was often constructed from aluminum over a wooden frame, keeping weight low and agility high. Hallmarks included cycle-style fenders, a long bonnet with external fuel lines, and a spare wheel mounted at the rear.

This combination of Bentley’s rugged chassis and powertrain with Vanden Plas’s elegant yet purposeful design made the 4.5 Litre a favorite among “Bentley Boys”—wealthy British enthusiasts who raced the cars with great success, particularly at Le Mans. While the “Blower” supercharged versions became famous for their speed and distinctive front-mounted superchargers, it was the naturally aspirated 4.5 Litres like those bodied by Vanden Plas that achieved the majority of Bentley’s racing victories.

Today, the Bentley 4.5 Litre Vanden Plas is a highly sought-after classic, celebrated for its blend of endurance racing pedigree, British engineering excellence, and timeless coachbuilt style. It remains a fixture at historic motoring events, from concours d’elegance to vintage rallies, embodying the spirit of motoring’s golden age.