*
UK V5
See UK Registration/Import Status Guide in catalogue.

Presented here is chassis B117AE, an early-production Derby Bentley with an off-test date of January 19, 1934, and delivery two months later to Col. J.N. Horlick. It is one of 14 known examples of the 3 1/2 Litre models equipped with sporting Barker drophead coupe coachwork, with this example featuring a built-in boot with the spare wheel assembly mounted behind it.

This sporting Bentley has remained in England its entire life. An early image of the car shows it participating in a J.C.C. rally at Brooklands in 1939, and further ownership is recounted in B117AE’s accompanying history file. Its current owner acquired it in 1979, adding it to a collection of companion Bentleys. A restoration by I. Wilkinson & Son of Derby was completed in the mid-1980s, and it has been maintained in fine condition since.

The body and wire wheels are finished in a warm green tone accented with a black hood. A red coach-line runs the length of the body, and that color is repeated inside on the leather upholstery and carpeting. It has benefited from continual care during the past 44 years in single family ownership and presented well at the Gawsworth Hall Classic Car Show in 2015 and the Nantwich Show in 2017. Still carrying its original engine, per a copy of its factory build sheet, this lovely Bentley makes for a delightful, open version of the Silent Sports Car.