1928 | Bentley 4 1/2 Litre

• Built on a new chassis by Green Farm Racing during the 1990s

• Immense performance from 5.3-litre engine block and 3:1 axle ratio

• Recent work carried out by Kingsbury Racing Shop

• Vanden Plas-style four-seater tourer

Even after 100 years, Bentley’s success at Le Mans during the 1920s continues to resonate among motoring enthusiasts, and the cars that left the Cricklewood factory during that era are among the most charismatic of their era. 

The Bentley 4½ Litre being offered for sale here was built up on a new chassis during the 1990s by Green Farm Racing, a specialist in pre-war Bentleys and Vauxhalls run by Vintage Sports-Car Club stalwart Julian Ghosh.

A considerable number of original components were used as part of the build, including the engine sump, front and rear axles, steering box, and the B-type gearbox, which benefits from the installation of close-ratio C-type gears and is one of the best we’ve ever experienced. 

Having been fitted with what is believed to be an original Vanden Plas body, the completed Bentley was registered in 1997, the DVLA issuing it with the period number ‘YV 4790’. It was subsequently used and thoroughly enjoyed by its new owner – another member of the VSCC – during the early 2000s. 

After a period in storage in the late 2010s, it was extensively recommissioned and has recently been entrusted to renowned specialist Kingsbury Racing Shop for some fine-tuning work that included adjusting the clutch and brakes.

With the engine having been bored out to 5.3 litres – a popular modification for vintage Bentleys – this is an extremely fast car, while the long-legged 3:1 rear axle makes it an impressive high-speed cruiser. The current owner reports that performance in the first three gears is strong enough for top gear to be needed only when you’re really motoring hard.

Driving any Cricklewood-era Bentley is a unique experience and – with race numbers applied and a ‘fish tail’ exhaust fitted – YV 4790 is an incredibly well-presented and well-sorted carwith surprisingly light steering and strong brakes. Not only does it offer a nod to the legendary racing Bentleys of the 1920s, it’s ready to be used and enjoyed as part of the vibrant scene that still surrounds these engaging cars.