1935 Derby Bentley 3.5 litre 3 Position Drophead Coupe

This unique Derby Bentley, chassis number B46-FB, started life as a 3 ½ litre saloon with bodywork by Arthur Mulliner in 1935. The car was laid up during the Second World War, but after the War the owners wanted to bring the car up to date. It was thus converted in 1948 to a 3 Position Drophead by Richard Mead, who was well known for the bodies he fitted and created for Alvis's of the period.

The car was laid up again in the late 1970's and was bought by the previous owner in 1997 when it was found to be in need of a full body restoration. The body was stripped and dismantled and a new ash frame constructed. The body was completely repanelled and subtly modified to give a more pleasing frontal treatment as well as sculpted sills and front wings. The car was repainted in 'Shell' over 'Tudor Grey' and the interior was re-trimmed in red hide with red carpets. The hood was re-trimmed with red mohair hooding and a half woolcloth headlining. The interior and exterior brightwork was refurbished and the woodwork and instrumentation were restored.

All mechanical and electrical aspects were attended to and the car performed and drove beautifully. Since the rebuild the car has regularly been serviced and maintained and has benefitted from the upgrade of a 'Tim Payne' overdrive. The car has also benefitted from a new cylinder head from 'Fiennes' in the past few months and is now said to be running well. It comes to the sale with a fresh MoT test certificate.

The car has been on numerous UK and Continental rallies and, although not an original Drophead, is arguably one of the most attractive full four seater convertibles that was converted in period, on the market today.