The 1930 Bentley Speed Six is one of the most celebrated luxury performance cars of the early 20th century, embodying the craftsmanship and engineering excellence that defined Bentley during its early years. Known for its power, durability, and success on the racetrack, the Speed Six played a pivotal role in establishing Bentley's legacy as a producer of high-performance automobiles.
Overview
- Manufacturer: Bentley Motors Limited
- Production Years: 1928–1930
- Total Units Built: Approximately 182
- Significance: The Speed Six was a high-performance variant of the Bentley 6½ Litre, designed for racing and grand touring. It is particularly famous for its victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1929 and 1930.
Specifications
- Engine:
- Type: 6.6-liter (6,597 cc) inline-6, overhead camshaft (OHC).
- Output: Approximately 180–200 horsepower, depending on configuration.
- Features: Twin SU carburetors, dual ignition system, and a redesigned camshaft for enhanced performance in the Speed Six variant.
- Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox.
- Chassis: Steel ladder-frame with a 12-foot wheelbase for the standard version (shorter wheelbase variants were available for improved handling).
- Suspension:
- Front: Semi-elliptic leaf springs.
- Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs with a live axle.
- Brakes: Mechanically operated drum brakes on all four wheels, assisted by Bentley's patented "Dewandre" vacuum servo system.
Performance
- Top Speed: Around 90–100 mph (145–160 km/h), impressive for its era.
- Acceleration: Smooth power delivery with remarkable torque for rapid acceleration, particularly by 1930s standards.
- Handling: Designed for stability at high speeds, with precise steering and excellent road-holding capabilities, especially for a car of its size.
Design
- Coachwork: Like other Bentleys of the era, the Speed Six was delivered as a chassis, with custom bodies crafted by prestigious coachbuilders such as Vanden Plas, Gurney Nutting, and Mulliner.
- Exterior:
- The car's long hood, imposing grille, and flowing fenders emphasized its elegance and power.
- Most racing versions featured lightweight open-body designs, while road-going versions often had luxurious enclosed bodies.
- Interior:
- Lavish materials such as leather, wood, and polished metal adorned the cabin.
- Simple yet functional instrumentation tailored to the driver’s needs.
- Spacious enough to accommodate four passengers comfortably in most configurations.
Racing Success
The Speed Six's dominance in motorsport cemented Bentley's reputation for performance and reliability:
- Le Mans Victories:
- 1929: A Speed Six driven by Woolf Barnato and Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin won the 24 Hours of Le Mans, leading a Bentley 1-2-3-4 finish.
- 1930: Barnato and Glen Kidston secured another victory, reinforcing Bentley’s dominance during this period.
Historical Context
- The Speed Six was developed under Bentley founder W.O. Bentley, who prioritized performance and engineering excellence.
- Despite its success, the financial strain of producing such high-quality cars contributed to Bentley’s eventual acquisition by Rolls-Royce in 1931.
Legacy
- Collector Appeal: The Speed Six is one of the most sought-after vintage Bentleys, with original examples fetching millions at auctions.
- Cultural Impact: The car remains a symbol of the golden age of motoring, combining racing pedigree with luxury craftsmanship.
- Tributes: Modern Bentley models, such as the Bentley Mulsanne Speed, draw inspiration from the Speed Six's blend of performance and opulence.
Summary
The 1930 Bentley Speed Six is a masterpiece of early automotive engineering and design. Renowned for its racing triumphs, luxurious craftsmanship, and enduring legacy, the Speed Six is a cornerstone of Bentley's storied history and a timeless icon of motoring excellence.
Taken at the Hilton Head Concours
You may purchase a print of the 1930 Bentley Speed Six in our dElegance 2024 online gallery.
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