Bentley 8 Litre classic car for sale

History of the Bentley 8 Litre

Launched in September 1930 at the height of the economic crisis, the Bentley 8 Litre was the crowning achievement of the Cricklewood era. Conceived by W.O. Bentley himself, this model targeted the absolute top segment of luxury automobiles, breaking decisively with Bentley’s previous reputation for fine sports cars usable every day. The 8 Litre was the largest and most expensive chassis available from a British marque at the time, setting new standards for power, refinement, and bespoke craftsmanship. However, the onset of the Great Depression disastrously undercut demand for ultra-luxury vehicles. Despite enthusiastic signals from the press, the 8 Litre could not rescue its maker from insolvency. Just 100 chassis were completed before Bentley Motors was sold to Rolls-Royce in 1931.

Model History

The Bentley 8 Litre succeeded the successful 6½ Litre and Speed Six series as the zenith of pre-war Bentley engineering. Available in both short (3,658 mm) and long (3,962 mm) wheelbase options, the 8 Litre set itself apart as Britain’s largest production chassis. Its four-speed gearbox transmitted power with a single dry-plate clutch to the rear wheels. Production ran briefly from 1930 to 1932. The model series ended abruptly after Rolls-Royce’s acquisition, making way for future projects under new management. The majority of 8 Litres were custom-bodied by renowned coachbuilders, ensuring no two were exactly alike.

Highlights of the Bentley 8 Litre

Every Bentley 8 Litre carries a unique story, as most received custom-built bodies by prestigious firms such as Freestone & Webb. The highly refined six-cylinder engine featured four valves per cylinder, and could propel even a two-ton limousine to 100 mph—a benchmark for the time. Many 8 Litres dazzled contemporary concours juries and were often seen at high-profile motoring events, both in period and today. Owners included influential personalities and Bentley’s founder himself. The chassis was available with dramatic helmet wings and in configurations ranging from formal limousines to rakish coupés. High-quality leather interiors and luxurious finishes underscored each car’s bespoke nature.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

All Bentley 8 Litres were built as bespoke vehicles, but a few examples have achieved specific collector status. The very first car was ordered by entertainer 'Gentleman' Jack Buchanan. The second chassis, originally W.O. Bentley’s personal car, returned to the Bentley company fleet as the CEO’s vehicle in 2006. Chassis fitted with their original coachwork, especially from top-tier coachbuilders such as Freestone & Webb, are especially sought after.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific endemic mechanical weak spots are documented for the Bentley 8 Litre, reflecting the robust engineering and high original built quality. However, as with all hand-built classics from the era, care must be taken to verify the authenticity of bodywork, as many cars have received replacement coachwork. Attention to correct maintenance of the six-cylinder engine, braking system, and the original electrical equipment is crucial due to age and bespoke components.

Engine, Transmission & Handling

The 8 Litre’s straight-six with nearly 8 litres of capacity was the largest fitted to any British production car of its era. With 4 valves per cylinder and advanced mechanical refinement, the engine delivered not only effortless acceleration and remarkable top speed for a two-ton luxury car, but also a remarkably smooth and quiet drive. The four-speed manual transmission relayed power efficiently, and vacuum-assisted drum brakes provided reliable deceleration. Despite their imposing size and weight, 8 Litres earned high praise for balanced roadholding and exceptional touring comfort. - 1931 Bentley 8 Litre Freestone & Webb Coupé: Distinctive coachwork, one-off specification, highly valued at concours events.

• Short and long wheelbase versions: Both offer distinct driving feel; long wheelbase models carry formal bodies, while shorter chassis suit sporting coupé styles.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior & Design

The 8 Litre’s design ethos was shaped by coachbuilders according to individual customer preferences, resulting in diverse silhouettes—ranging from formal limousines to dramatic coupés with helmet wings and distinctive lines. Premium materials like fine Connolly leather, exotic woods, and chrome were commonly selected. Interiors focused on comfort and craftsmanship above all, and each example received unique finishing touches. Accessories often included bespoke luggage, picnic sets, and purpose-built toolkits.

Other Noteworthy Features

A significant proportion of surviving Bentley 8 Litres have seen their original bodies replaced or altered, making cars with original coachwork particularly rare and valuable. The 8 Litre’s strong presence in historic motoring events, such as Concours d’Elegance worldwide, underscores its historical importance and continuous appeal to collectors. The chassis also served as a base for upgrades and recreations, but authenticity always adds significant value.

Summary

The Bentley 8 Litre stands as a defining statement of British luxury touring design and engineering at the dawn of the 1930s. Built just before Bentley’s transition to Rolls-Royce ownership, its large displacement engine, advanced chassis, and individually tailored coachwork established new benchmarks for exclusivity, performance, and distinction in pre-war motoring. With only 100 built and fewer than 80 believed to survive, the 8 Litre remains an automotive milestone and a testament to the ambitions of its creator, W.O. Bentley.