After being found rusting and rotting in a garage, a BENTLEY that competed in the first 24 Hours of Le Mans race 100 years ago sold for a staggering amount.
The Bentley 3 Litre finished fourth in this iconic race, driven by First World War Veterans John Duffy and Frank Clement.
The motor at the time had a lap record 66.69mph and was placed fourth.
The vehicle, also known as Chassis 140, was used to transport St Bernards to shows in the 1940s. It didn’t reappear publicly again until the 1980s.
Tom Wheatcroft who owns the Donington Car Museum received a phone call from a woman aged 97 who offered Tom a motor that was in her barn located in Leicestershire.
A motors journalist later informed the museum owner that he had not known about the car’s past.
Peter Briggs, a collector, eventually traded in a Formula 1 Car he had from his collection to get the vehicle. He then began restoring it.
Unnamed British motoring enthusiasts have now purchased the car for a staggering $3.7 million (PS3million).
Kidston SA was responsible for the sale. Kidston SA is a company that was founded by Glen Kidston’s nephew, who had won Le Mans 24 hour race in 1930.
Chassis 141 will make a historic return to Le Mans Classic in June.
Simon Kidston of Kidston SA said, “In reflecting on the sale, the most famous race in the World celebrates its centennial birthday this week and its pioneering competitors are as fascinating as ever.”
This Bentley is not just an old car. It’s a turning-point in motor racing and a cornerstone to the Bentley legend.
“It feels great to be able to bring home this Bentley, as I inherited my family’s passion for cars, which was fostered by my uncle the ‘Bentley Boy.’
It won’t lead a quiet existence: next month, it will be on the grid for the Le Mans race celebrating its 100th anniversary.
I hope the original drivers are smiling and looking down at it.
