1939 | Bentley 4 1/4 Liter Thrupp & Maberly

Lot details

Year: 1939
Make: Bentley
Model: 4 ¼ Litre MX Series Sedanca Coupe by Thrupp &Maberly
Registration: FXM 600
Chassis No: B35MX
Engine No: U2BT
Mileage: 99,550
•: Extensively restored to concours standard by Fiennes Restorations costing over £170,000
•: In concours condition throughout
•: Sizeable history file detailing its significant history
•: Believed to be the only Sedanca Coupe of this model built by Thrupp and Maberly

The Rolls-Royce acquisition of Bentley Motors in 1931 ensured the survival of the Bentley name. The first of what would become known as the 'Derby' Bentleys was produced in 1933. Based on established Rolls-Royce chassis and engines, the “silent sports car” was a tireless long distance tourer. It combined renowned Rolls-Royce refinement with Bentley performance and handling. The 4¼-litre model offered more power than other models while retaining the well proven chassis with its faultless gear change and servo-assisted brakes. In 1939, the overdrive gearbox became standard, which provided the car with a longer stride and improved economy. Bespoke bodies were built on to the chassis by a number of internationally known coachbuilders, giving prospective owners a wide range of styles.

This wonderful example coachbuilt by Thrupp and Maberly was registered new on 17th May 1939 and was delivered and especially built for Captain Molyneuz, Director of Rootes. The Bentley passed through various significant hands including the 8th Earl Bathurst and Mr Derek Randall, the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club chairman, and has more recently resided in the current vendors private collection for some 15 years. Presented in its original Thrupp and Maberly body the Bentley retains its original colour, although the interior has been changed from beige to a dark red upholstery. A beautifully maintained example of this most elegant car which was treated to a comprehensive restoration to concours standard by renowned restores Fiennes Restorations between 2002 and 2004 at a cost of over £170,000! Since the restoration the Bentley has always been garaged in a heated and dehumidified garage and has covered circa 10,000 miles. As one would expect it still looks fantastic and is a credit to the quality of the restoration. The paintwork is in excellent condition as is the interior, and engine bay. During the current vendors tenure the Bentley has been shown twice at concours events and has won trophies at both! Last serviced by P &A Wood in 2023 the Sedanca has covered a mere 350 miles since and is ready to be enjoyed. Offered with a sizeable history file detailing its early years, including its various owners, many bills and invoices relating to maintenance, invoices relating to the extensive restoration, and the current UK registration document. This very rare example is a real one off and, in this condition, would be at home in any serious collection. Consigned by Daniel Godin