1938 Bentley 4¼-Litre Drophead Coupé

• Delivered new in the UK
• Subsequently exported to the USA
• Present ownership in the UK and New Zealand since 1988
• Extensively restored between 2016 and 2024
• Aluminium cylinder head and overdrive fitted
• 'On the button' and ready to enjoy

This handsome Derby Bentley was sold new to a Mr A H Bowkett of Margate, who owned bakeries there. It was sold through Rootes but probably delivered by Martin Walter as there is a plaque on the dashboard to that effect. There is no further history of the car in this country prior to its being exported to the USA. While there some restoration was carried out, including a repaint in Burgundy red. In 1987, BDC member Harry Fuchs discovered the Bentley (it had previously been resident in a museum in Palm Beach, Florida) and brought the car back to the UK (see US paperwork on file). Our vendors purchased it in 1988.

Their first adventure with the Bentley was a trip to Monaco to watch the Formula 1 Grand Prix, which it accomplished without incident, and it has been used regularly for BDC events and holidays. Further restoration including a new aluminium cylinder head from Fiennes. In 2008 the car was exported to the vendors' house in New Zealand, where it passed its Compliance test and duty was paid for the import. The Bentley was used regularly in New Zealand, including a BDC rally in 2010 and a NZ Vintage Car Club Rally in Wanganui. In 2014 it was returned to the UK where an extensive overhaul was carried out over several years (bills available).

In addition to fitting the aforementioned aluminium cylinder head, the water pump and pressure pump for chassis lubrication were rebuilt by Fiennes; a new radiator core and free-flow oil filter fitted; and the one-shot chassis lubrication system overhauled and drip plugs replaced as necessary. Fiennes rebuilt the steering box and fully rewired the electrics using a braided loom, while Paynes fitted one of their overdrive units. In addition, the shock absorbers were overhauled; new shackle pins fitted all round; the dynamo overhauled; and the headlamps changed to modern double-dip bulbs. The car was also treated to a bare-metal respray in Burgundy and silver, and the dashboard and woodwork re-veneered as necessary; dashboard labels were repainted and the clock repaired (it keeps good time). New carpets were fitted throughout and a new hood cover made. According to the vendors the car starts 'on the button' and runs and drives nicely - maintaining good oil pressure when hot - and is now ready for new ownership having just passed its MoT.