Bentley 3/8 Special classic cars for sale

History of the Bentley 3/8 Special

The genesis of the Bentley 3/8 Special lies in the creative transformation of early 3-Litre Bentley chassis into formidable 8-Litre specials—an evolution born of the British motorsport scene. Key figures such as J.C. Konig and engineer John Guppy spearheaded these conversions, resulting in vehicles that maintained pre-war reliability while substantially elevating performance. The 3/8 Special quickly established itself on circuits and at club events like the Bentley Drivers Club and VSCC, gaining credibility through repeated competition entries and achievements. Its enduring presence at prestigious gatherings such as the Goodwood Members Meeting and continental rallies highlights its lasting reputation in historic motorsport.

Model History

The 3/8 Special draws its foundation from the early 3-Litre Bentleys of the 1920s, which were reimagined with advanced mechanical upgrades and more powerful 8-Litre engines. Unlike regular evolutions with official successors, these bespoke specials exist through continuous engineering tweaks and competition-driven adaptations. The model lineage remains rooted in British motorsport tradition, with each car individually customised, often using period-correct components and batch-specific enhancements introduced by specialist fabricators such as Williams and Pritchard.

Highlights and Notable Features

Distinct among Bentley specials, the 3/8 Special is recognised for its unique marriage of a robust 3-Litre chassis and a high-capacity 8,203cc straight-six. The chassis’s integrity, reinforced with aluminium and steel tubing, gives the car structural sturdiness required for competitive driving. The bespoke Laystall crankshaft, high-compression pistons, tubular conrods, and hand-fabricated exhaust manifold are all tuned for racing demands. Iconic Brooklands screens, racing head cowl, fitted wings, and authentic period touches underscore its motorsport identity—complemented by green leather bucket seats, leather lacing, and a purposeful aluminium dashboard.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

As bespoke engineering projects, each Bentley 3/8 Special is a one-off or limited-run conversion, often reflecting the expertise and vision of individual builders. Notable examples may trace their heritage to specific motorsport events or be closely associated with renowned drivers and key figures like J.C. Konig. These attributes, alongside historic competition entries and invitations to exclusive motoring events, assign unique provenance to each car.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Authentically restored or converted specials require diligent care. Given the unique blend of vintage and bespoke components, maintenance demands expert attention—particularly for the hand-modified gearbox, high-compression engine internals, and tubular chassis. Potential buyers should scrutinise the integrity of the aluminium and steel structure, check documented competition history for signs of hard use, and verify the proper functioning of period instruments and driving gear.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With its 8,203cc straight-six, the Bentley 3/8 Special delivers remarkable thrust, particularly impressive for a pre-war base. The modified dog-gear four-speed ensures robust and quick gear transitions required for competitive sprints and endurance racing. Despite its bulk, considered engineering and a focus on weight distribution grant the car agility and predictable cornering—a hallmark valued in both historic racing and cross-continental touring. - 3/8 Special (8,203cc, Laystall crank, dog-gear 4-speed, aluminium coachwork)

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Hand-fitted aluminium bodywork by Williams and Pritchard defines the car’s aesthetic—streamlined, utilitarian, yet infused with British racing personality. Brooklands aero screens, racing cowl, and fitted wings capture the spirit of period-correct competition cars. Inside, green leather bucket seats with leather lacing, an aluminium dashboard bristling with precise instrumentation, and a cleverly designed stowage compartment provide both functional simplicity and motorsport character. Accessories often include lightweight extras and instrumentation tailored for historic rally or competition use.

Other Features

Participation in key historic events—including the Goodwood Members Meeting and numerous Bentley Drivers Club rallies—confers continuous eligibility for some of the most prestigious motorsport occasions. Documented entries enhance the provenance and narrative of each car, offering substantial insights for historically-minded buyers.

Summary

The Bentley 3/8 Special channels a rare blend of British engineering ingenuity, period-correct racing prowess, and individual craftsmanship. Fusing an original 3-Litre Bentley backbone with an 8-Litre six-cylinder heart, these vehicles are compelling choices for historically-orientated drivers, competitive motorsport enthusiasts, and collectors alike looking for authentic pre-war race and rally performance.