The 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon represents a refined chapter in the storied history of the Derby-era vehicles. This Park Ward-bodied example spent over five decades in the care of a prominent automotive historian in California. Finished in a dignified black with subtle red pinstriping, the car exudes a quiet, commanding presence on any road. It features a sophisticated blend of steel and aluminum coachwork that showcases the era’s bespoke manufacturing techniques. Current ownership began in 2018, maintaining the car as a preserved piece of pre-war engineering excellence. For collectors, it offers an authentic connection to the luxury standards of the late 1930s.
Classic Coachwork and Exterior Details
The Park Ward bodywork on this 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon utilizes steel for the main structure. Aluminum was specifically chosen for the hood, firewall, and trunk lid to keep the overall weight manageable. A sliding sunroof provides the driver and passengers with an open-air experience that was highly coveted during the period. Distinctive touches like the cowl-mounted spotlight and dual trumpet-style horns reinforce the vehicle’s high-status positioning. Trafficators remain in place, serving as a charming reminder of early automotive signal technology. While the paint shows character through minor chips, the car maintains a very respectable level of aesthetic integrity. It is a striking silhouette that remains iconic in the world of vintage motoring.
Chassis Dynamics and Mechanical Hardware
The 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon sits on a robust frame supported by semi-elliptical leaf springs. These springs are notably protected by leather gaiters to ensure longevity and consistent damping performance over uneven surfaces. Large 18-inch steel wheels with full covers provide the car with a stately and balanced stance. Finned drum brakes at all four corners handle the task of slowing this substantial luxury machine effectively. The chassis reflects a time when engineering focused on a smooth, silent ride above all else. Consequently, the car glides along the road with a poise that many modern vehicles struggle to replicate. Every component shows the heavy-duty quality required for long-distance touring in the pre-war era.
Bespoke Interior and Period Amenities
The right-hand-drive cabin of the 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon is a sanctuary of beige leather and wood. Individual front seats and a rear sofa provide a comfortable environment for all occupants during extended travels. Rich wood trim adorns the dashboard and window frames, though some natural aging is visible in the finish. Rare details like cut-glass courtesy lights and braided grab handles showcase the artisanal quality of the Park Ward interior. A Smiths heater box ensures that the cabin remains comfortable even during cooler autumn drives. Despite the visible wear on the carpets, the interior maintains a high sense of historical importance. It is a space that rewards those who appreciate the patina of time.
Instrumentation and Operator Controls
Piloting the 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon involves a large four-spoke steering wheel and a clear set of analog gauges. The 110-mph speedometer and a 5k-rpm tachometer sit directly in the driver’s line of sight for easy monitoring. An inset clock within the tachometer provides a touch of functional elegance to the wood-finished dashboard layout. Auxiliary gauges monitor the engine’s vitals, ensuring the 4.2-liter unit operates within its optimal parameters. The controls feel mechanical and direct, offering a level of engagement that is completely lost in digital cars. Every gear change through the four-speed manual transmission is a deliberate and rewarding act. It is a cockpit designed for the serious motoring enthusiast who enjoys the journey.
Inline-Six Power and Performance Specs
The heart of the 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon is its 4,257cc inline-six engine with overhead valves. This powerplant features a cast-iron block and a separate alloy crankcase for a balance of strength and heat dissipation. Induction is handled by dual SU carburetors, which provide a smooth and consistent fuel mixture across the entire RPM range. The engine delivers a refined and quiet performance that allowed Bentley to be known as the silent sports car. Power reaches the rear wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox, providing enough torque for effortless highway cruising. While not a racing machine, the 4.2-liter engine offers plenty of authority for modern secondary roads. This mechanical configuration represents the peak of pre-war refinement and reliable engine design.
Final Summary
The 1937 Bentley 4¼ Litre Saloon by Park Ward is a rare survivor that bridges the gap between art and engineering. Its long-term ownership history and historical records provide the provenance that discerning collectors often seek today. The combination of black paint and beige leather creates a timeless look that never goes out of style. While it shows some signs of its age, the car remains a functional and highly eligible tourer for vintage rallies. As a Derby Bentley, it carries a prestige that is recognized at any major automotive event worldwide. This vehicle is ready for its next steward to continue its impressive legacy for the next fifty years. It is a definitive masterpiece of British automotive heritage.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
