Bentley 4 Litre classic cars for sale

History of the Bentley 4 Litre

The Bentley 4 Litre was introduced in 1931 at a crucial period for the company. After the Bentley 8 Litre failed to secure the company's finances in the wake of the global economic crisis, the more affordable 4 Litre was developed. This model was intended to compete with contemporary Rolls-Royce models by reusing a shortened 8 Litre chassis and pairing it with a six-cylinder IOE (Inlet over Exhaust) engine designed by Harry Ricardo. Despite technical innovation, the model did not meet the expectations of traditional Bentley clientele. The car's launch could not halt Bentley Motors' financial decline—shortly afterwards, the company was acquired by Rolls-Royce. In total, just 50 examples of the 4 Litre were produced, distinguishing it as one of the rarer Bentleys of the pre-war era.

Model History

The Bentley 4 Litre followed the 8 Litre as Bentley pursued profitability through a lighter and less expensive offering. The model transitioned Bentley’s heavy grand tourers to a more accessible market segment, using surplus 8 Litre chassis and the Ricardo IOE engine. The 4 Litre’s run was extremely short-lived, with all production ending in 1933 after just 50 cars. It was succeeded indirectly by the Derby Bentleys under Rolls-Royce ownership, marking the end of the original W.O. Bentley era.

Highlights and Unique Features

The Bentley 4 Litre stands apart due to its combination of a sophisticated IOE six-cylinder engine and a chassis derived from the 8 Litre. Harry Ricardo’s engine design—a 'F-head' configuration—placed inlet valves above exhaust valves, offering better breathing and efficiency. The car was made available in both closed and open body styles, with coachwork by renowned British craftsmen like Vanden Plas, H.J. Mulliner, and Thrupp & Maberly. Reports from period and contemporary reviewers note the exclusivity and uniqueness of surviving examples.

Supply statistics show that the Bentley 4 Litre accounts for 100% of Bentley cars listed under this code on the market, making it the defining entry in its model series. Demand statistics mirror this, with 100% of views for Bentley 4 Litre listings, reflecting the car's rarity and focused interest among enthusiasts.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collector’s Models

While there were no official factory special editions of the Bentley 4 Litre, nearly all cars were delivered as rolling chassis to be bodied by specialized coachbuilders. Noteworthy survivor examples include open tourers by Vanden Plas, light saloons by Thrupp & Maberly, and unique commissions from H.J. Mulliner. Some individual cars, such as the one owned by racer Woolf Barnato, gained recognition for their provenance and specific history.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Bentley 4 Litre’s Ricardo IOE six-cylinder provides 120 hp in a chassis that retains much of the 8 Litre’s grand tourer weight. While the engineering solution was innovative, contemporary reports found the performance underwhelming for the car’s mass. Typical top speeds reached approximately 124 km/h, considered modest for large luxury cars of the time. Chassis balance and ride comfort were priorities, and the coachbuilt bodies ensured variable handling characteristics depending on style and specification. Highlights among surviving models include open tourers by Vanden Plas and saloons by Mulliner and Thrupp & Maberly. These cars demonstrate the range of custom coachwork and varying performance curves based on weight and configuration.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Coach-built exclusivity defines every Bentley 4 Litre. Interiors tend to feature hand-finished wood, leather upholstery, and bespoke details per owner specification. Exteriors reflect the British pre-war aesthetic: long hoods, pronounced wheel arches, and flowing wings. Distinctive features include trademark Bentley radiator shells and a lack of standardisation in body lines due to individualized coachwork. Popular accessories included spotlights, custom dashboards, and unique paint finishes, with some cars retaining original specification and materials.

Other Features

The low survival rate of the 4 Litre—just a handful out of 50 produced—means surviving examples are thoroughly documented and often participate in prestigious concours d’elegance and heritage events. Restoration standards are high, with original materials and mechanical authenticity highly valued in the market.

Summary

The 1931 Bentley 4 Litre stands as a rare artefact from the last days of W.O. Bentley's independent manufacturing. With only 50 made, each car is a testament to changing times, technical adaptation, and the rich heritage of British coachbuilding. Its engineering, while not universally acclaimed in its day, provides insight into Bentley’s attempt to blend exclusivity with accessibility amid economic hardship. For enthusiasts and collectors, the 4 Litre remains an important chapter in the Bentley story.