(Crewe, 6 February 2025) – The journey of passion and heritage that defines Bentley ownership often begins in childhood, and for the custodian of the third of twelve Speed Six Continuation Series cars, it was a cherished childhood toy that set the course. A ‘Models of Yesteryear’ scale model of the iconic Blower Bentley, gifted by his uncle, ignited a lifelong fascination with Bentley’s pre-war racing machines. Now, decades later, that youthful inspiration has come full circle with the latest addition to his distinguished collection: the Speed Six Continuation Series #3.
A Collector’s Vision
A devoted Bentley enthusiast, the owner and his wife curate an extraordinary stable of Crewe-built masterpieces. Among them are a first-generation Continental GT, the motorsport-inspired Continental GT3R, a second-generation Continental Supersports, and a First Edition Bentayga. However, at the heart of this collection sit two historically significant recreations: the Continuation Series ‘Blower’ 4½ Litre Supercharged and now, the Speed Six Continuation Series #3.
Inspired by the very toy car that sparked his love for Bentley, both the Blower and the Speed Six are finished in a bespoke shade of green – a hue meticulously blended to bridge the gap between the lighter green of his scale model and the deep tones of British Racing Green. This unique colour, named ‘Embelo Green’ in honour of the couple’s three daughters, encapsulates personal significance, seamlessly blending family heritage with automotive passion.
Bespoke Craftsmanship at Mulliner
Every Bentley crafted at Mulliner Classic is an expression of meticulous craftsmanship and personalisation, and the Speed Six Continuation Series #3 is no exception. Faithfully recreated to match the 1930s works racer in every detail, this exceptional machine also bears unique touches that make it distinctly the owner’s.
The car proudly wears the racing number 3 on its flank and radiator grille—a number steeped in personal meaning, as the owner himself wore the number 3 jersey as a semi-professional tighthead prop in rugby. Inside, a rich red leather interior echoes the deep connection to his childhood scale model, albeit in a more sophisticated, muted tone.
Performance was not overlooked in this creation. Understanding the owner’s desire to drive his Speed Six as W.O. Bentley intended, the Mulliner team engineered two exhaust systems: one faithful to the original unsilenced design for full-throttle enjoyment and a secondary silenced version to meet circuit noise regulations. Additional period-correct details include a white patch on the nearside front fender for easy pit-lane identification and a hand-painted Union Flag adorning the driver’s side.
A Hands-On Journey
Commissioning a Continuation Series Bentley is an intimate and immersive experience, and the owner of Speed Six #3 has been deeply involved at every stage. A skilled craftsman in his own right, he took part in the creation of his Continuation Series Blower, assisting Mulliner artisans in applying the Rexine fabric to the Weymann-style bodywork. Though unable to do the same for his Speed Six due to professional commitments, his dedication to the marque remains unwavering, ensuring that every detail reflects his vision.
A Legacy of Racing Excellence
The Speed Six remains one of the most revered models in Bentley’s illustrious racing history. Launched in 1928 as a high-performance evolution of the 6½ Litre, it featured twin SU carburettors, a high-compression ratio, and an advanced camshaft, producing formidable power. Between 1928 and 1930, Bentley built 182 examples, securing consecutive Le Mans victories in 1929 and 1930, cementing the Speed Six’s legendary status.
For the Continuation Series, Mulliner Classic meticulously studied two original Speed Six models: Bentley’s own GU409 and the illustrious ‘Old Number 3,’ a Le Mans veteran from 1930 piloted by Sammy Davis and Clive Dunfee. With access to 80% of the original engineering blueprints, courtesy of the W.O. Bentley Memorial Foundation, and the invaluable contribution of Old Number 3’s owner, the Mulliner team ensured that every component, material, and dimension remained true to history.
A Grand Handover
To mark the occasion, the official handover of the Speed Six #3 took place at Cliveden House in Berkshire, a setting befitting the grandeur of such a momentous occasion. Surrounded by the echoes of history and the opulence of one of Britain’s most storied estates, the latest chapter in this Bentley enthusiast’s lifelong journey was officially written.
As with all his Bentleys, the owner intends to drive the Speed Six regularly and with enthusiasm, proving that even the most exclusive and historic recreations are not merely museum pieces, but machines to be enjoyed—just as W.O. Bentley intended.
