Bentley Through the ages
Walter Owen Bentley, known as ‘WO’, who created the marque – and then saw it sold
1919
Bentley Motors founded at Cricklewood, London, by brothers Walter Owen and Horace M Bentley. New 3-litre Bentley runs for the first time in 1920, a robust 16-valve four that hints at WO’s locomotive apprenticeship. First car delivered in 1921; gains reputation for performance and reliability.
1922
After racing at Brooklands, Bentley enters a 3-litre at the Indianapolis 500 and wins the team award in the Tourist Trophy. In 1923 Duff and Clement’s private Bentley finishes fourth at the inaugural Le Mans 24 Hours. One year on a 3-litre wins Le Mans, and again in 1927 and ’28 – but financial struggles begin.
1926
Diamond millionaire Woolf Barnato steps in as financier and chairman of the ailing firm, and also gifted works driver. New 6½-litre announced.