- Make: Bentley
- Model: Derby 3 1/2 litre
- Year: 1934
- Price: £129,000
1934 Derby Bentley 3 1/2 Litre drop head by Park Ward
Chassis number B-157-BL
Registration number YJ1799
A beautiful example!!!
First delivered to H. Graeme Thomson of Angus in Scotland on 17 July, 1934. The chassis had previously been dispatched to Park Ward in London where it was fitted with the current Drophead Coupé body. Having been the subject of a recent comprehensive restoration, it is presented in excellent condition. It is accompanied by an historical file containing a copy of its original build and delivery sheet, a copy of the original “buff” logbook confirming its original registration of YJ 1799, photographs of its mechanical restoration, assorted maintenance and parts invoices, and a copy of the owner’s handbook.
The car is finished in a light grey over medium grey which has aged nicely since being applied, giving the car a little patina, as opposed to "restoration fresh" appearance.
The car is fitted with overdrive which automatically engages via a discreet micro switch whenever top gear is selected & 2000 rpm exceeded. This gives an instant drop of 500 rpm making for very, very relaxed cruising at modern speeds. 70MPH is its natural gait with 80 easily attainable. I cannot stress how wonderfully the overdrive unit functions, & how it transforms the car. An act of parliament should be set on the statutes requiring the fitment of such a unit to all similar cars.
I drove the car 200 miles recently & was pleasantly surprised at both its performance & comfort levels. Indeed it has the sort of natural position that allows a 6' plus person such as myself to drive all day with no discomfort, which may not be said of all pre war cars.At 70 MPH one realizes where the moniker "The silent sports car" was coined from.
The interior is brand new & beautifully executed in rich dark brown leather, with matching hood bag & biscuit coloured carpets. The walnut fascia & accents have also been removed & refinished to a mirror polish standard. The hood itself is a brand new black mohair item, easily deployed by releasing three simple catches.
The car is offered in the UK with US title & proof of import taxes having been paid. We are currently arranging for a UK V5 to be obtained for the car.
All in all a wonderful car in "ready to tour" condition. Pure driving pleasure.
