Rare Bentley to be auctioned in Sydney

Aside from its age and restored condition, what makes this Bentley particularly interesting is its 'Freestone & Webb' fabric-covered saloon body. Skinning automobiles in canvas or leather instead of timber or metal was relatively common amongst veteran vehicles, but was already becoming a rarity when this particular vehicle was new.

Replacing the Bentley 3 Litre, a total of 720 4½ Litre vehicles were produced in three different models - Tourer, Drophead Coupé and Sporting Four Seater - between 1927 and 1931 before W.O. Bentley was forced to sell his company to Rolls-Royce as a result of the recession that hit Europe following the Wall Street Crash of 1929.

The vehicle being auctioned by Shannons is believed to be one of the last of its type produced and was delivered new to a Captain C.D. Leyland in the UK in July, 1930. Almost thirty years later, the Bentley tourer was rediscovered in Turramurra, NSW, standing out in the weather under a tree, with its engine and transmission removed and disassembled.

The imposing Black four-door saloon, with its rich Claret leather and polished wood interior, had apparently been imported into Australia some years earlier. In 1980, well-known Sydney coachbuilder George Williams of Camperdown, NSW, was engaged by the owner, a known Bentley enthusiast, to carry out a full body-off-chassis restoration, retaining the four-door tourer configuration, which nowadays is a rarity on Bentleys from this period, as most have been converted into open 'Bentley Boy' style racers.

Given its provenance, condition, and above all, its rare original bodywork, this Bentley could be a contender for invitations to overseas events. With potential world market appeal, Shannons conservatively expect the Bentley to sell in the $320,000-$360,000 range.

An added attraction is the opportunity to acquire the Bentley's original NSW plate 'GH 1537', which replicates the UK registration number of Captain Leyland. The NSW plate is currently on hold with the RTA should the successful buyer wish to acquire it.

Shannons Sydney Autumn Classic Auction takes place on Monday, May 7th, 2012 at Shannons Sydney auction room at 65 Reserve Rd, St. Leonards.

For further details on this and other lots consigned for this auction, go to www.shannons.com.au.