Proper Vintage Bentley

The Bentley 3-Litre defines early performance motoring.

Built with purpose rather than luxury, these cars earned their reputation through durability, long-distance use and competition success. Today, the appeal remains the same — but only when the right example comes along.

This car was one of those.

Delivered new in April 1924, Chassis 589 has a well-documented and fascinating history, including long-term ownership of nearly four decades and close ties to the Bentley Drivers’ Club. Unlike many cars of this era that have passed quickly between custodians, this example benefitted from continuity — used, maintained and improved rather than simply preserved.

KEY DETAILS

• Year: 1924
• Model: Bentley 3-Litre Open Tourer
• Chassis: 589
• Coachwork: Vanden Plas-style open tourer
• Configuration: Long chassis, four-seater
• Ownership: Long-term enthusiast ownership (c. 40 years)
• Restoration: Extensive mechanical and cosmetic overhaul in recent years

OUR VIEW

Vintage Bentleys are often spoken about in terms of history — but history alone doesn’t make a usable car.

What matters is how they’ve been maintained, how they’ve been rebuilt, and whether they still deliver the driving experience they were known for.

This example had been through that process properly.

Over its life, it has seen continuous use, thoughtful ownership and significant mechanical investment, culminating in a comprehensive programme of work to bring the car to a strong, reliable and well-resolved condition. The result is a Bentley that starts, runs and drives as it should — not just a static piece of history.

Equally important is its provenance. With documented ties to the Bentley Drivers’ Club and a long-term ownership story, this is a car that has been part of the marque’s culture, not just its timeline.

Cars like this don’t come from quick restorations or short-term ownership.

They come from decades of proper use and understanding.