In automotive history, Bentley’s Cricklewood era is synonymous with sports cars and high-speed touring. Yet, founder W.O. Bentley’s dedication to luxury is evident in larger models like the renowned 4½-Litre, 6½-Litre, and notably, the opulent Bentley 8-Litre. This model represents the epitome of automotive luxury, blending superb craftsmanship with exceptional performance.
In 1931, amid Bentley’s financial struggles, an intriguing turn of events occurred when Napier aimed to acquire the esteemed marque. However, Rolls-Royce, realizing Bentley’s potential as a formidable competitor, thwarted Napier’s bid. This strategic move highlighted the industry’s recognition of Bentley’s enduring legacy and its role as a beacon of automotive excellence.
By the time of Bentley’s financial troubles, only 100 units of the 8-litre model had been painstakingly crafted. Priced at £1,850, the Bentley 8-Litre directly rivaled the Rolls-Royce Phantom II in the luxury automobile market, offering not only elegance but also unparalleled performance.
Introduced at the 1930 London Motor Show, the 8-Litre proudly claimed the title of the UK’s largest-engined car, living up to its advertising claim of achieving “100mph without noise”.
The Bentley 8-Litre represented an evolutionary leap in the marque’s vintage-era lineup. It skillfully amalgamated proven features from its predecessor, the 6½-Litre, with cutting-edge engineering advancements. The most notable enhancement lay in the engine, where the bore size was increased from 100 to 110mm, resulting in a more potent powerplant.
The gearbox, referred to as the ‘F-type,’ departed radically from its predecessors, designed to adeptly handle the increased power and torque while prioritizing a hitherto unprecedented level of quiet operation.
The chassis frame of the 8-litre marked a departure from convention, employing a ‘double drop’ design aimed at lowering the car’s height and center of gravity. This innovative design also necessitated the adoption of a hypoid-bevel rear axle, showcasing Bentley’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering.
A reinforced frame, featuring seven tubular cross members, provided enhanced stability for this large and heavy vehicle, capable of achieving remarkable speeds. The 8-Litre boasted improved suspension, steering, and braking systems, solidifying its standing as a groundbreaking achievement in the realm of luxury automobiles.
The Bentley 8-Litre, with its blend of exquisite design, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge engineering, remains a testament to the unwavering commitment of W.O. Bentley and his team to automotive excellence. Its limited production run, coupled with its direct competition with the Rolls-Royce Phantom II, positions it as a rare and sought-after collectible in the world of classic cars.
The legacy of the Bentley 8-Litre endures as a symbol of the marque’s resilience and its ability to seamlessly marry luxury and performance, leaving an indelible mark on the history of prestigious automobiles.
