In collaboration with Sander Houdel - Classic Cars Expert
Looking for a practical prewar classic with a chic look and sporty finish? This week Catawiki has a unique 1935 Bentley Derby 3.5L Park Ward Sports Saloon in the auction. What makes this Bentley unique is its rich history and custom design. Keep reading to find out more about the Bentley and discover how it came to Catawiki.
What’s in a name?
Bentley was founded in 1919 as Bentley Motor Company by W.O. Bentley. The company is known for its luxury cars and SUVs as well as winning the 24 hour Le Mans 6 times. In 1931 the company was bought out by Rolls-Royce. The 1933, 3.5 litre was the first new model presented to the public after the Rolls-Royce acquisition. These models were sold as only the bare chassis, engine, gearbox, radiator and scuttle. The body was intended to be custom built to the buyer’s specifications. They were known as Derby Bentleys because this era of Bentley was produced in a Rolls-Royce factory in Derby, England. The name Park Ward comes from the coachwork. Rolls-Royce was a key shareholder in the Park Ward coach-building company and therefore more than half of these Derbys featured Park Ward coachwork.
Unique Features
The body is constructed of wood and aluminium, contributing to the relatively light weight of the car, 1,140 kg. As we said, each Derby was custom designed to the buyer’s specifications. This particular Bentley, chassis number B114EF, has some unique features of its own. The back seat has leg-room as requested by the original buyer, Sir Walter Forest, so tall people can sit comfortably. If there is an exceptionally tall person that wishes to go for a ride in this car, the retractable roof can also be opened to allow even more space.
The History
The Bentley came to its current owner by way of famous Bentley collector Jim Pike and restorer Bart Holland. It was with Holland when the current owner first saw it, fell in love, and became a Bentley owner for the very first time. He says of the car that is is mechanically reliable and that in the past 16 years it hasn’t needed any work besides an annual service. About 6 years ago the car made its way back to Derby, England for a visit. According to the owner it ran for 10 days on this journey without any problems and the reaction of residents of Derby was astounding. Everyone wanted to chat about the classic that had come home.
Will you be the next owner of this Bentley Derby 3.5L Park Ward Sports Saloon? The 80 year young auto comes with the original English papers and registration and can be yours if you’re the highest bidder. Want to see more classic cars? Or have a classic of your own that you’re interested in selling? Catawiki offers weekly classic car and motorcycle auctions and you could be a seller too by signing up here.