Flying Scotsman Rally, April 2019

The Flying Scotsman Rally, April 2018

154 at Flying Scotsman Vintage Reliability Trial, 2018

In England in 2008 / Owned by a BDC member

72bhp, 2,996cc four-cylinder, single overhead camshaft engine, twin sloper SU carburettors, front beam axle a semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension and rear live axle and semi-elliptical leaf spring suspension, four-wheel drum brakes. Wheelbase: 108in. (2,743mm).

Original Bentley records show that the first owner of this 3-litre Bentley, chassis 154 was S. De La Rue, the Chairman of Bentley Motors who lived at the Hoo at Willingdon in Sussex. The car was completed on December 22nd 1922. Four wheel brakes were fitted which which was unusual with most early cars having rear wheel drums only. Many cars had the front wheel brakes fitted retrospectively. This car has a four-seater body by Harrison and is finished in dark green with black wings and green wire wheels.

Chassis 154 was sold by its first owner in 1954 to the vendor, who drove the car into a garage 50 years ago where it has remained until now. The garage was opened up for the first time in 50 years with the vendor present. The car is described as having no signs of major corrosion, with a solid body. The hood and hood mechanism are missing, as are the front headlamps and spare wheel. The period leather bonnet strap is still in place. The car has a folding windscreen, retains its original registration and number plates, and period tyres, which stayed up after pumping.

The interior is finished in red leather, although only the two front seats remain; the rear seats and floor pans are missing. The dash appears to be original, although there are some instruments missing.

The car still has its original steering wheel and the twin carb engine is complete.

The last time this car was seen it was in driving condition – although that was some 50 years ago. Although conservation is possible, this is also a once in a lifetime opportunity to resurrect an early red label Bentley – one with only two long-term owners since new.

RM auction, 2007