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Following the 6½ Litre released in 1926, Bentley thoroughly updated the design with a more powerful engine. The main upgrade was a square-section intake manifold that increased power from 147 to 160 bhp and later 180 bhp with a slight redesign using a single port. This flagship model was bodied by the best British coachbuilders and also raced with great success alongside the 4½ Litre.

Bentley gained much respect after proving their endurance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and winning many English races including the Tourist Trophy and Brooklands Double 12. In fact, Bentley was at the very first 24 Hours held in 1923, and won the event in 1924, 27, 28, 29 and 30. These later victories were achieved with specially fitted Speed Sixes which was one of Walter Owen Bentley's favorite cars.

The basis for all of Bentley's cars was an engine which in many respects was ahead of its time. Drawing upon experience gained from working at the Great Northern Railway and designing airplane engines, Walter Owen Bentley included such characteristics as aluminum pistons, dry-sump lubrication, twin spark ignition and an advanced valve train in his engines. Early models featured four cylinders and after 1925, Bentley released a straight six which would become his highlight work, and provide necessary power for heavy coachwork and grand touring.

Chassis & Sales

HM2861-1930 Corsica Coupe. Delivered new to Mr J.W. Bealey on September 30th. Participated in Bentley's 50th anniversary celebration at Le Mans in 1980 and was displayed at the 1985 Pebble Beach Concours. Fully restored in 1998, the car was offered for sale with an asking price of $1,850,000 USD at Blackhawk's 2001 Pebble Beach Sale.

SB2773-1929 Cadogen Dual Cowl Tourer. Delivered in December 1929 to Forrest Lycett with new featured the new single-port 180 bhp engine. Restored in the late 1980s and went through the collections of Stanley Mann, Adrian Hamilton and John Mozart. Sold byt RM Auctions at their 2006 Monterey Sports & Classic Car Auction for $1,815,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.