The Bentley 8 Litre, introduced in 1930, is widely regarded as W.O. Bentley’s finest grand tourer and a testament to his vision of luxury and performance. It was the last car he personally designed for Bentley Motors before the company faced financial difficulties and changed ownership due to the economic downturn following the Wall Street Crash. Despite its grandeur, only 100 examples were produced between 1930 and 1932, making it one of the rarest and most iconic Bentleys ever built.
A ‘Dead Silent 100mph’ Achievement
W.O. Bentley famously remarked, “I have always wanted to produce a dead silent 100mph car, and now I think we have done it.” Powered by a 7,983cc straight-six engine, the Bentley 8 Litre was guaranteed to reach 100mph, regardless of the coachwork chosen by the buyer. This made it not only a symbol of luxury but also an engineering marvel, combining refinement with power.
A Piece of History Reunited
After Bentley Motors was sold in 1931, W.O. Bentley had to part with his personal 8 Litre, but years later, he was reunited with it during a Bentley Drivers’ Club celebration held in his honor. The car has since held a special place in Bentley’s history, symbolizing the legacy of the brand’s founder.
A Tradition of Leadership
In 2006, Bentley Motors acquired W.O. Bentley’s personal 8 Litre and sympathetically restored it. Since then, it has become a ceremonial ‘company car’ for each successive Bentley CEO, preserving a connection to the company’s rich heritage and its founding visionary.
The Bentley 8 Litre remains an enduring icon of luxury and innovation, representing the finest craftsmanship of its time and a lasting tribute to W.O. Bentley’s vision.
Source: Bentley
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