1935 Bentley 3½-Litre Drophead Coupé | Bonhams | Goodwood Revival | 19 Sept 2026

Coachwork by Park Ward

Registration no. CMB 106

Chassis no. B20FB

Engine no. D8BC

• Present ownership since 1965

• Professionally restored 2008-2011

• Used sparingly following restoration

• Ideal candidate for Concours and touring

"One's impression, when seeing the new 3½-litre Bentley for the first time, is that here we have an absolute thoroughbred. Its low build, its graceful lines, and yet sturdy appearance, all make for a car capable of high speed, combined with the utmost safety and comfort. This impression was intensified when I had an opportunity of handling the car under very adverse road conditions." - Sir Malcolm Campbell, writing in The Field.

Launched in 1933, the first of what would become know as the 'Derby Bentleys' continued the marque's sporting associations but in a manner even more refined than before. Using the chassis developed originally for the 'Peregrine', a proposed smaller Rolls-Royce, the 3.5-Litre was slightly shorter in the wheelbase than the contemporary Rolls-Royce 20/25hp and employed a tuned (115bhp) twin-SU-carburettor version of the latter's overhead-valve six. Add to this already remarkable package a part-synchromesh four-speed gearbox and servo assisted brakes, and the result was a vehicle offering the driver effortless sports car performance in almost absolute silence. 'The Silent Sports Car', as it was swiftly dubbed, had few peers as a tireless long-distance tourer, combining as it did traditional Rolls-Royce refinement with Bentley performance and handling.

As befitted its sporting nature, the Derby Bentley was almost always fitted with owner-driver saloon or drophead coupé coachwork, the standard designs being the work of Park Ward, as seen here. Chassis number 'B20FB' was delivered in October 1935 to first owner one P. H. Shiers. The late owner purchased the Bentley from renowned marque specialist Frank Dale in 1965. The car had been used regularly for 15 years prior to purchase and since then has been stored within the owner's collection of classic cars in London, seeing only occasional use.

Between 2008 and 2011 the Bentley was fully restored by Robert Betteridge of London, and on completion attended the Kuwait Concours in 2011. The rear of the body has been modified to the late owner's design, arguably creating a more elegant shape. This work involved a new ash frame from the waist rail back, while the front wings have been modified to accept spare wheels. Other notable features include power steering and an overdrive unit sourced from the Bentley Drivers' Club. Stored for the last two years, the car runs and drives but will need to be thoroughly checked over prior to further use. Offered with a FVA Identity Card (2011) and a V5C document, this elegant Bentley is the ideal candidate for Concours or comfortable touring.