1931 | Bentley 8 Litre

Bentley 8 Litre Park Ward Limousine de Ville, year 1931. Chassis (VIN) number YF5022, engine number YF5022, original British registration GN 4110. Black exterior colour combined with a brown leather interior and beige wool carpet. The Bentley 8-Litre represents the pinnacle of British automotive engineering in the early 1930s.

It was the ultimate chassis for bespoke luxury cars designed for the world’s elite. Only 100 of these remarkable vehicles were produced, of which 78 are known to survive today. The Bentley 8-Litre with chassis number YF5022, proudly presented here, is a unique example fitted with a seven-seater enclosed ‘Limousine de Ville’ bodywork by Park Ward (body number 3509). This design includes fold-down seats hidden within the privacy wall, along with a drop-down privacy window for added discretion and comfort. Leaving the Bentley factory in March 1931, this majestic limousine was initially used for publicity purposes by Bentley Motors until September 1931.

Its first owner, Mr. E.D. Davies, preserved the car meticulously during World War II. In its first four decades, the Bentley changed hands among seven devoted owners. In 1969, while owned by Mr. J.W. Alington, this Bentley 8-Litre was featured in Johnnie Green’s book Bentley – 50 Years of the Marque (page 125), where it was described as indistinguishable from new, retaining its original paintwork and upholstery. The car was later advertised in October 1980 by Mr. D. Margulies in Thoroughbred & Classic Cars magazine and subsequently joined the ‘Fondation Renaud’ museum collection in Cortaillod, Switzerland.

It was again mentioned in Michael Hay’s 1997 book Bentley – The Vintage Years as being part of the Swiss collection. After decades of display in the Fondation Renaud, this exceptional Bentley was acquired by a German collector. Today, it remains in outstanding, original condition, having been meticulously inspected and serviced by vintage Bentley specialists at Altena Classic Service. Despite occasional use in its early years, the chassis, engine, and other components show minimal signs of wear. At 94 years old, this Bentley 8-Litre drives and handles as if it has just left the factory in March 1931. Its original interior is near pristine, showing only minor traces of previous use and age—a true time capsule. The bodywork is original and flawless, free from dents, rust, or scratches. While the wings are believed to have been repainted in the past, the rest of the body retains its factory-spec cellulose paint, showcasing an exquisite patina that enhances its authenticity.

This impressive Bentley 8-Litre Limousine de Ville drives with the elegance and precision of a new 1930s Limousine. The doors close with the solidity of a vault, embodying the craftsmanship Bentley is renowned for. A rare and remarkable find, this collector’s car is ideal for the discerning Bentley enthusiast or a museum seeking to display the apex of Bentley heritage.