Image of 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre, sourced from www.classicdriver.com , Image Link.

The Quintessence of British Automotive Elegance: The 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre

Stepping into the realm of classic luxury, the 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre stands as a paragon of pre-war automotive excellence. Born from the storied workshops of Bentley Motors, which was founded by W.O. Bentley in 1919, this vehicle emerged during a transformative period for the manufacturer. With its blend of performance and luxury, the Bentley 4 1/4-Litre became a symbol of high society, capturing the imaginations of enthusiasts and aristocrats alike. A notable moment in its history was when these models were extensively used by British agents during World War II, adding a layer of intrigue to their legacy.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre exudes timeless elegance, with sweeping lines that command attention and denote its bespoke nature. The car's long bonnet and pronounced headlamps contribute to its stately presence. Inside, passengers are enveloped in a cabin adorned with the finest materials of the era, including rich leather upholstery and polished wood trim. Technologically advanced for its time, it featured a synchromesh gearbox and servo-assisted brakes that were cutting-edge innovations. Color options for the Bentley were often deep and rich, reflecting the car's luxurious status. Popular choices included black, dark green, and burgundy, which complemented the chrome accents perfectly. The most iconic body style is arguably the Park Ward Sports Saloon, but buyers could choose from various coachbuilders to tailor their vehicle to personal tastes.

Historical Significance

The Bentley 4 1/4-Litre's impact on automotive design was profound; it set new standards for combining speed with luxury. Unlike many cars of its time that prioritized one over the other, this Bentley managed to excel at both. Its engineering prowess influenced subsequent generations of luxury vehicles and solidified Bentley's reputation as a purveyor of high-performance grand tourers.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior lay a robust engine capable of propelling the Bentley to impressive speeds for its era. The top speed approached 100 mph—a remarkable feat at the time—with acceleration from 0-60 mph achieved in a respectable timeframe for a car of such size and stature. On various driving conditions, whether navigating country lanes or cruising on motorways, the car offered an exceptional ride quality. Drivers often remarked on the symphonic purr of the inline-six engine and how it contributed to an exhilarating yet refined driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The 1936 Bentley was not just a showpiece; it was also used as a daily driver by those who could afford its luxury and upkeep. Maintenance requires a certain level of commitment due to its age and sophistication; however, many owners find this part of its charm. It is not uncommon for these vehicles to appear at classic car shows or be used in vintage racing events.

Fun Facts

A fascinating piece of trivia about the Bentley 4 1/4-Litre is that some models were equipped with secret compartments designed during wartime—perfect for hiding sensitive documents or contraband! While not originally intended for record-breaking speeds or endurance trials, these Bentleys have occasionally found themselves setting records at auctions due to their desirability among collectors.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre can fetch significant sums in the collector's market. While production numbers were limited—with estimates suggesting fewer than 2,000 units—finding one available can be challenging but not impossible. Over time, these vehicles have generally appreciated in value due to their rarity and historical importance, with prices varying widely based on condition and provenance but often reaching well into six figures.

Conclusion

In summary, the 1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre is more than just an automobile; it's an artifact representing a bygone era of craftsmanship and luxury. Its combination of performance prowess and sumptuous comfort has left an indelible mark on automotive history—a true testament to Bentley's enduring legacy in producing cars that are both fast and fabulous.

1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre License Bracket Pad. 4-3/8" wide X 5" long. Each-MP 112-JLicense Bracket Pad. 4-3/8" wide X 5" long. Each

1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre Headlight Bracket Pads. 4-5/8" wide X 6-1/8" long. Pair-MP 112-LHeadlight Bracket Pads. 4-5/8" wide X 6-1/8" long. Pair

1936 Bentley 4 1/4-Litre Front Fender Side Light Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 6-3/8" long-MP 112-MFront Fender Side Light Pads. 2-3/4" wide X 6-3/8" long. Pair