This 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer is one of 720 produced between 1927 and 1931. It is an MF3158 that was originally bodied by Harrison as a 2-seat convertible and later in life rebodied as a LeMans Tourer and still retains its original chassis, engine and transmission. When new it was exported to Australia as a 21st birthday gift for Miss Ursula bar.
The 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer is an iconic example of British engineering and one of the most celebrated vehicles in automotive history. Built by Bentley Motors Limited, it was designed as a rugged and powerful race car, embodying the brand's dedication to performance and endurance. This model gained fame through its success at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, solidifying Bentley's reputation as a dominant force in motorsports during the 1920s.
Background
- Manufacturer: Bentley Motors Limited
- Model Year: 1928
- Body Style: Open Tourer
- Notable Achievement: Victory at the 1928 24 Hours of Le Mans
Specifications
- Engine: The 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer was powered by a robust 4.5-liter inline-four engine. It featured an overhead camshaft and a single Smiths carburetor, producing around 110 horsepower in its road-going version, with race-tuned versions capable of more power.
- Transmission: A 4-speed manual gearbox delivered power to the rear wheels. The gear ratios were optimized for both high-speed racing and durability over long distances.
- Chassis and Frame: The car was built on a ladder frame chassis, ensuring rigidity and strength, which were crucial for endurance racing. The chassis also supported customization for racing or touring configurations.
- Suspension: Semi-elliptic leaf springs at the front and rear provided a balance of comfort and stability, critical for handling rough roads and long-distance endurance events.
- Brakes: Mechanically operated drum brakes were fitted on all four wheels, offering decent stopping power for the era but requiring skillful handling during aggressive driving.
Design and Features
- Exterior:
- The Bentley Le Mans Tourer featured a classic open-top design with flowing fenders and a long hood to accommodate the large engine.
- A hallmark of this model was its practicality and ruggedness, emphasized by minimalistic bodywork and exposed mechanics for easy maintenance during races.
- The car rode on large, wire-spoke wheels with quick-release hubs, allowing for rapid tire changes in racing conditions.
- Interior:
- The interior was spartan and focused on functionality, with bucket seats and a simple dashboard layout.
- Essential gauges included a tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and fuel level indicator, providing critical information to the driver during high-speed events.
- Leather upholstery and wooden steering wheels were standard, adding a touch of traditional craftsmanship.
Performance
- Top Speed: Approximately 90–100 mph (145–160 km/h), depending on the tune and configuration.
- Acceleration: While specific acceleration figures are scarce, the car's performance was impressive for its time, especially given its weight and size.
- Handling: Designed with endurance racing in mind, the car's handling was predictable and stable, excelling on long straights and rough terrain.
Racing Heritage
- The 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer is most famous for its victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the same year. This victory marked Bentley's third consecutive win at the prestigious endurance race and was a testament to the car's reliability and performance.
- Driven by Woolf Barnato and Bernard Rubin, the 1928 Le Mans-winning car completed 1,658 miles (2,667 kilometers) at an average speed of 69.11 mph (111.21 km/h), showcasing its ability to maintain high speeds over extended periods.
- The car was part of the "Bentley Boys" era, a group of wealthy British drivers who passionately raced and promoted the brand.
Legacy
- Collector’s Appeal: The 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer is one of the most desirable vintage cars among collectors, celebrated for its racing pedigree, historical significance, and engineering excellence.
- Cultural Impact: This model represents the golden age of British motor racing and Bentley’s dominance in endurance racing during the late 1920s.
- Value: Well-preserved or restored examples often fetch millions of dollars at auctions, especially those with documented racing history or original Le Mans specifications.
Summary
The 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer is a masterpiece of early automotive engineering and a symbol of British automotive heritage. Its combination of rugged performance, elegant design, and success in endurance racing has cemented its status as one of the most iconic cars of the pre-war era. Whether on the track or as a touring vehicle, the Le Mans Tourer exemplified Bentley's ethos of "speed with comfort," a philosophy that continues to define the brand today.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the 1928 Bentley Le Mans Tourer in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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