Chassis No. RE1387

Engine No. RE1393SS

Transmission No. RE1387

Bentley has set unparalleled standards in performance, luxury, and endurance for over a century. Like many nascent British sports car manufacturers of the era, the company staked its reputation on racing with the 3-Litre model, netting the company victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1924. Bentley went on to dominate the race from 1927 to 1930, proving its speed, reliability, and poise - qualities that appealed to wealthy buyers seeking both performance and prestige.

This 1927 Bentley 3-Litre was delivered new with a Gurney Nutting Weyman Saloon, which is most unusual for a Speed Model Chassis. More unusual was that it was also fitted with a Super Sports Le Mans specification engine from new along with a close ratio "A Type" gearbox. These specifications made it mechanically identical to the infamous "Old Number 7" Bentley that won Le Mans 24 hours that year.

Additionally, the factory upgraded this example with an improved steering gear from the 4 ½-Litre cars in 1935 when it was re-bodied as a Drop Head coupe by Corsica. The car was imported to the United States in 1961. By 1968, it had made its way to Chicago, where John DeHaan discovered and purchased it.

Once in his possession, Mr. DeHaan began completely restoring the car, which saw the bodywork changed to its current tourer specification. When complete, the car was shown at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Showing and campaigning the car at historic races throughout the West Coast, Mr. DeHaan remained a passionate steward of the car for over 50 years until it was sold to the current owner in 2021.

Over $100,000 has been spent on mechanical work with well-known marque specialists in the past two years. The most notable transformation came with a complete engine rebuild by renowned Bentley specialist Andy Green. The rebuild was completed just 2,000 miles ago, and the engine was upgraded to the potent and desirable high-compression 4.9-Litre specification using a brand new 4.5-liter cylinder block, a Phoenix counterbalanced crank, rods, and new custom pistons. The engine work was part of a no-expense-spared mechanical effort that covered the driveline, suspension, electrical, and braking systems, while the differential was overhauled by Tim Creswell at VBE Restorations of Flecknoe, England, with a new 3.30:1 high-speed ratio.

Having been cared for by a noted Bentley enthusiast family, this 1927 Bentley 3-4½ Litre Sports Tourer is the ideal candidate for tours and rallies around the globe. Late series 3-Litre benefit from factory reinforced frames, while the engines utilize high capacity one-piece oil sumps from new. Since the work noted above was completed, the car has completed two long-distance tours by its current owners. They report that the car is believed to be a fairly low-mile chassis and feels exceptionally tight on the road.

Accompanying the car is a comprehensive history file, which includes archival photography and extensive documentation detailing its restoration work, mechanical upgrades, and provenance. With its exceptional driving characteristics, outstanding provenance, and meticulous upgrades, this 1927 Bentley 3-4½ Litre Sports Tourer represents a truly extraordinary opportunity.