Introduced in 1933 as the first Bentley produced under Rolls-Royce ownership, the 3 1/2 Litre used a 3,669cc overhead-valve inline six derived from the 20/25 engine, in a Derby-built chassis marketed as 'the silent sports car'. Coachbuilders such as Park Ward, Thrupp & Maberly, Barker and Vanden Plas bodied the cars, and it was succeeded by the 4 1/4 Litre in 1936. It matters to collectors for blending Rolls-Royce engineering with genuine sporting performance and usability.
It carried the Bentley name through the Rolls-Royce era with a fast, refined and durable chassis that remains one of the most drivable pre-war cars. Its coachbuilt variety, strong period reputation and eligibility for Bentley Drivers Club and pre-war events give it lasting character and appeal.
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Sources: Bonhams · Car & Classic
Targa has recorded 34 auction sales of the Bentley 3 1/2 Litre between 2003 and 2026, from Bonhams and Car & Classic. The cars sold were built between 1933 and 1936. In the last 12 months there has been one sale.
Latest recorded sales
- 1935 Bentley 3½-Litre Sports Saloon
- 1935 Bentley 3½-Litre Coupé
- 1935 Bentley 3½ Vanden Plas Sports Saloon
- 1934 From the Charles Howard Collection ,1934 Bentley 3½-Litre Open Tourer
- 1933 Bentley 3½ Liter Sports Tourer Coachwork by Vanden Plas
- 1935 Bentley 3 ½ Litre Saloon project car
- 1935 Bentley 3½-Litre Pillarless Coupé
- 1934 Offered from the Bursville Collection,1934 Bentley 3½-Litre Open Tourer