Lot 369: 1936 Bentley 4 ¼ Vanden Plas All Weather Tourer

Following Rolls-Royce's takeover of Bentley in 1931, the first new Bentley had been the 3 Litre of 1933. Basically a sporting version of the Rolls-Royce 20/25, it utilised a shorter chassis together with a more powerful version of the 20/25's six cylinder engine with new crossflow cylinder head. Producing 105bhp and mated to a four-speed synchromesh transmission, the 3,699cc engine provided the 3 Litre with 90mph plus performance.For 1936 Rolls-Royce enlarged the engine to 4,257cc. Retaining the 3 Litre's crossflow cylinder head, twin SU carburettors, twin fuel pumps and single coil ignition, power rose significantly to 126bhp, which allowed an almost 100mph maximum speed and notably improved acceleration. Otherwise, the specification was much the same as the 3 Litre, ie: a separate chassis, complete with centralised lubrication system, employing leaf spring suspension and adjustable hydraulic shock absorbers front and rear with power-assisted brakes. The reputation for speed and fine handling accorded the 3 Litre was even more enhanced with the 4 Litre and, as before, leading coachbuilders provided a variety of saloon, drophead coup and touring bodywork.This extremely sporting all weather tourer continued Vanden Plas' famous touring design that was so popular on the earlier 3 litre Bentley chassis. However, for the later 4 litre models, Vanden Plas disgarded the, by now old fashioned side screens for glass winding windows which until then had only been available on the saloon or coup styles of coachwork.This original Vanden Plas touring car was supplied in August of 1936 to a Mr G.E.H. Palmer, later finding its way to the United States.In the early 1980's, Coys purchased this vehicle which had just completed an extensive restoration. This imposing touring motor car has for nearly 20 years remained with its French owners now returning once again to Coys for sale.This grand tourer, presented in splendid condition with its exterior coachwork finished in corral red and ivory inserts now fitted with polished aluminium Ace wheel discs and interior finished in best tan leather with matching carpets and black hood. A very practical touring Bentley for, as its title says 'all weathers'.