One of the best all round Bentley Special combinations is the 3/4.5 Litre, with the power of the later engine fitted to the nimbler, shorter wheelbase, `Speed Model' specification 3 litre chassis.

NL 8498, has been constructed to be one of the fastest racing Bentleys in recent times as can be seen from the results we have listed below.

The car is based on a replica chassis frame with an original 3 litre crankcase numbered DN1733 (which dates from 1928) carrying a 4.5 litre block. It is reported that the late Spencer Fack developed this racing engine at a cost of circa £60-70k, and the unit is said to produce approximately 200bhp plus. Running on coil ignition and twin 2in SU carburetors, through a lightened flywheel with modern Borg & Beck sintered metal plate clutch, to transmit the power to a racing `D' Type specification gearbox. Presently fitted with hydraulic brakes, the car could be reverted back to original type rod brakes if one so desired. The steering box is from a 4.5 litre chassis number HF 3194 delivered in 1928.

Previous recorded owners are: R McCann (1997), Wride (2000), L Wride (2003), A Singer (2004), J Singer (2006) and then on to the present owners who have had the car meticulously maintained by FS Racing. Presented with a FIVA Identity Card (No 032185) which was issued on 24 June 2008 and VSCC Buff form that was granted on 22nd June 2004 (the latter recording the car as a Special). Clothed with a metal paneled VDP Style body, fine leather upholstery and blade wings the car presents very well, and gives the potential purchaser the opportunity to be at the front of the grid from the outset.

Please Note: A 3 Litre Speed model claiming the chassis number 849 and so by inference the registration number NL 8498 has recently come to light in America. The Michael Hay book `Bentley The Vintage Years 1919-1931' states that chassis number 849 was "last heard of 1964 - Believed now in USA". Though, the V5C registration document belonging to this car states that it has been issued with the registration number NL 8498 on a non-transferable basis.

Recent racing history:

Oulton Park 2009
1st in class Pre War scratch
2nd overall Oulton Park Trophy Race

Silverstone Spring
Start 3rd overall

Spa Motor racing Legends 2008
8th Overall

Bentley drivers Club Silverstone
1st Overall BDC Handicap Race. Winning the Mike Bradley Memorial Trophy.

Silverstone Historic GP 2008
14th Overall

Le Mans Classic 2008
7th Overall, but 1st Bentley home

Silverstone Spring Start 2008
2nd Overall