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Books Models Highlights Cars
of 1998 More Bentleys in these books:
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Car
of the Month - January 2003
Most of those who are interested in the marque do know that all Bentleys may be divided into four eras - Vintage Bentleys (1919-1931), Derby Bentleys (1933-1939), Crewe Bentleys (1946-2002) and New Bentleys (from 2003). But there is no rule without exception, in this case the "RC-Series" built during the second half of the 30ies but classified - even by the Bentley Drivers' Club - as Vintage Bentleys. Reportedly the very last "genuine W.O. Bentley" (synonym for Cricklewood- or Vintage Bentley) was the Bentley 4 ½ Litre with chassis number #RC45, because this one was the last ever delivered to its new owner.
As a second step followed that 6 completely new - from chassis frame to the last bolt and screw - Bentley 4 ½ Litre were made. These were a combination from the existing stock of parts, hence the specification differed from the original one. Gearboxes were from Bentley 4 ½ Litre Blower stock. Rear axles had been taken off the shelfs for Blower Bentleys as well as from shelfs with Bentley 6 ½ Litre parts. Front axles originally had been produced for Bentley 4 ½ Litre and Bentley 4 Litre respectively. The steering from the Bentley 4 Litre was adapted to the 4 ½ Litre standard steering arm length. All the cars were clothed with coachwork by Vanden Plas (with the exception of one body by Corsica) and handed over to customers with a five years guarantee.
All
components of the cars from the RC-Series were designed and probably
manufactured prior to 1930 - the period of the Vintage Bentley. Thus these
cars are classfied as such. The last one was #RC45 - and that is up for
sale now. The car took part in a variety of demanding rallyes - including
Mille Miglia in Italy - during recent years and is in immaculate
condition. Should you consider to take her into your custody an enquiry
should be directed to: |
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