At this year’s Concours of Elegance, held at the picturesque Hampton Court Palace, the 1927 Bentley 3 Litre Boat Tail Speed Model captured the spotlight in the 1920s category. The event, a showcase of automotive excellence spanning over 100 years, saw this iconic Bentley honored for its remarkable engineering and historical significance.
A Milestone in Bentley’s Legacy
The Bentley 3 Litre is celebrated as the brand’s first production car, marking a significant milestone in automotive history. Launched in 1921, the 3 Litre quickly earned acclaim for its innovative design and performance. Powered by a 3-litre four-cylinder engine with a single overhead camshaft, it delivered 70bhp and incorporated advanced technology for its era.
Bentley made a notable entry into motorsport with the 3 Litre, debuting at the 1923 Le Mans 24 Hours. Although it narrowly missed the podium, this debut was a precursor to Bentley’s storied legacy at the race. With a total production run of 1,600 units until 1929, the 3 Litre established Bentley’s reputation for speed and durability.
Restoration and Recognition
The featured car, chassis TN1564, is a prime example of Bentley’s early innovation. Originally owned by Francis Ronald Lambert Mears in India, this particular 3 Litre Boat Tail Speed Model has recently made its first public appearance in over 60 years. After a meticulous three-year restoration, the car has been revived to showcase its original grandeur and mechanical excellence.
At the Concours of Elegance, the Bentley 3 Litre Boat Tail Speed Model stood as a testament to the brand’s pioneering spirit and engineering prowess, reflecting the luxury and performance that have defined Bentley for over a century.
Specifications:
- Model Year: 1927
- Engine: 3-litre four-cylinder, single overhead camshaft
- Power: 70bhp
- Historical Significance: Bentley’s first production car, 1923 Le Mans debut
- Production: 1,600 units until 1929
- Restoration: Three-year process, first public appearance in over 60 years
Source: Concours Of Elegance
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