History By Chassis

This list of Chassis Nos., Engine Nos., Registration Nos. and coachbuilder information consists of factual data which was originally handwritten in ledgers by W. O. Bentley and his workers. Unlike standard cars, Vintage Bentleys are constantly being rebuilt, parts exchanged from one car to another, etc. It is a dynamic process and books by Stanley Sedgwick and Michael Hay, which contain variations of this information, are out-of-date and contained errors before they were ever published. Our objective is to allow people to correct incorrect information and add new information. There will be times when incorrect information will be submitted. But sources will always be listed and, if information can be proven to be incorrect, it will be changed. Numerous cross-checks are in place which are only possible now that the information is computerized. The fact that we are well aware of the questionable authenticity of Vintage Bentleys has led to our objective of determining how authentic the cars are by dealing with current and past owners and getting them to validate modifications that have been made to their cars.

S = The 3-Litre Bentley as first produced - 9' 9 1/2" wheelbase, low compression engine, single Smith carburettor.

TT = Replicas of cars raced in the 1922 Tourist Trophy Race -- actual race cars in italics. Similar to "S" above, but with raised compression engine.

IND = Indianapolis car.

L or ST = As "S" above on 10' 10" wheelbase, known as Long Chassis, but after introduction of Speed Model was referred to as the Standard Model

SP = Speed Model = 9' 9 1/2" wheelbase, high compression engine, twin S.U. carburettors (NOTE: Chassis No. LT 1578 was on a 10' 10" chassis.)

100 = 100 m.p.h. Model -- 9' wheelbase (NOTE: Chassis No. AX 1652 was on a 9' 9 1/2" wheelbase.)

LT = Light Tourerer -- 9' 9 1/2" wheelbase, low compression engine, single Smith carburettor.

N = Model not ascertainable from Works records.

* =

BLANK =

SPW =