The 1926 Bentley 3-Litre Weymann Saloon represents a rare moment where history and preservation meet in a single machine. Finding a vintage Bentley that retains its original chassis, engine, and coachwork is becoming increasingly difficult for modern collectors. This specific example serves as a physical timeline of the brand’s early commitment to durability and high-speed touring capability.
The Heritage of the 1926 Bentley 3-Litre Weymann Saloon
Chassis AP325 holds a special place in the manufacturer’s history as the final unit produced in the second series. This vehicle was originally delivered in February 1926 through the Gaffikin Wilkinson salesroom to its first owner. It eventually disappeared from public records for decades before its fortunate rediscovery in the early nineties near the London area.
The Weymann-style fabric-panelled bodywork was crafted by the elite coachbuilders J Gurney Nutting of Chelsea. This lightweight design was revolutionary for its time, offering a quieter and more flexible structure than traditional wooden frames. The pale green leather upholstery inside remains a testament to the luxury standards of the roaring twenties era.
Mechanical Restoration and Engineering Pedigree
Maintaining a pre-war masterpiece requires specialized knowledge that only a few dedicated workshops possess today. In 1990, this vehicle underwent a significant mechanical restoration by Ten Tenths Ltd, a firm associated with Nick Mason. This work ensured that the internal components remained functional while respecting the car’s deep historical integrity.
Subsequent work between 2007 and 2008 further refined the vehicle under the careful guidance of David Cantor. The engine still utilizes its original-type Smiths starter and carburettor, which is a detail often lost during modern updates. These specific parts contribute to the authentic driving experience that purists seek in a vintage 3-Litre model.
Design Details and Period Features
The exterior aesthetic of this saloon is defined by its sporting proportions and period-correct accessories. It features iconic Lucas King of the Road headlamps that provided the necessary illumination for early endurance rallies. A rear luggage rack equipped with a touring trunk and matching suitcases completes the classic long-distance traveler look.
Beaded-edge wheels further anchor the vehicle in its 1926 origins, providing the correct stance and road presence. The current collection acquired the car in 2019 and has since focused on meticulous mechanical sorting to maintain its health. Every adjustment has been made to ensure the car remains as pleasant to drive as it is to admire.
Driving Dynamics of a Vintage Legend
Operating a car from this era requires a mechanical sympathy that connects the driver directly to the machine. The steering box, which shares the same AP325 designation as the chassis, offers a direct and unfiltered feel of the road. This synchronization of original parts creates a unique harmony that later assembled cars often lack in their performance.
Reliability was the cornerstone of the Bentley reputation, and this 3-Litre variant continues to demonstrate that strength today. The fabric body minimizes the creaks and rattles typically associated with aging metal or wood saloons from the same decade. It remains a sturdy and capable companion for historic rallies and club events across the European continent.
Engine Specifications and Performance
The 1926 Bentley 3-Litre Weymann Saloon is powered by a 3.0-liter four-cylinder engine featuring an overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder. It retains its original block (AP321) and steering box, matched to a four-speed manual gearbox. The car produces approximately 70 to 80 horsepower, allowing for a top speed near 80 mph in its original configuration.
Summary of the 3-Litre Weymann
The 1926 Bentley 3-Litre Weymann Saloon stands as a remarkably intact specimen of early British automotive excellence. Its combination of Gurney Nutting coachwork and documented mechanical history makes it a priority for any serious pre-war enthusiast. This Bentley is not just a museum piece but a fully sorted machine ready for its next historic tour.
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Source: rmsothebys.com
