1927 Bentley 3 Litre – Red Label Speed Model
1927 Bentley 3 Litre – Red Label Speed Model
Coachwork by Vanden Plas (Sports Two-Seater)
Chassis No.: AX1674
Engine No.: ML1503
Registration No.: YH 2808
Year: 1927
Displacement: 2,996 cm³
Country of Registration: United Kingdom (original)
Overview
This is a rare and highly desirable "Red Label" Speed Model of the iconic Bentley 3 Litre – the very car that helped establish Bentley Motors Ltd. as a motorsport and luxury motoring legend. Built in 1927 and bodied by Vanden Plas with a sleek and purposeful two-seater sports configuration, this example — chassis AX1674 — is among just 513 Red Label cars ever made.
With a documented continuous ownership history, participation in vintage events, and a specialist assessment by Bentley authority Clare Hay, this Bentley is one of the most collectible and historically rich examples available today.
Technical Specifications
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Engine: Inline 4-cylinder, OHC
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Displacement: 2,996 cm³
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Compression Ratio: 5.3:1
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Wheelbase: 117.5 inches (2,985 mm)
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Transmission: 4-speed manual
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Top Speed (Period): Approx. 80 mph
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Body Type: Vanden Plas Sports Two-Seater
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Color: [Insert confirmed color if known]
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Badge: Red Label – denoting high-compression Speed Model
Red Label Speed Model – Background
The Red Label 3 Litre was Bentley’s performance-focused evolution of the original 3 Litre design, offering increased compression and improved handling characteristics. With just 513 built between 1924 and 1929, these cars became the backbone of Bentley's early motorsport success and are now considered some of the most valuable pre-war Bentleys.
The Red Label is easily identified by its red enamel badge on the radiator, a symbol of W.O. Bentley’s commitment to power, engineering, and prestige.
Provenance
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1927: Delivered new to Stanley Davidson, a British businessman and motoring enthusiast
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1927–1954: Retained in Davidson’s possession for 27 years – a rare long-term ownership in the early Bentley era
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1960–2014: Acquired by Keith Schellenberg, Olympic bobsledder and passionate collector
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Competed in Winter Olympics: 1956 (Cortina) and 1964 (Innsbruck)
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Owned the car for over 54 years
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2016–Present: Became part of a major German private collection of pre-war luxury and racing vehicles
Historical Authentication
In December 2016, the Bentley was professionally inspected and documented by Clare Hay, one of the foremost authorities on Bentley Motors history and 3 Litre models. Her report confirms:
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Matching chassis and engine numbers
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Coachwork by Vanden Plas still in original style
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Car is in authentic condition with historically accurate finishes
Condition
Today, the Bentley presents in fully roadworthy condition, restored and maintained with attention to originality. The paintwork and interior are described as in excellent, authentic condition, showing care and preservation throughout its decades of documented ownership.
Highlights
✔ One of just 513 Red Label Speed Models
✔ Vanden Plas factory-style two-seater body
✔ Highly desirable Red Label high-compression engine
✔ Inspected and authenticated by Clare Hay
✔ Olympic athlete Keith Schellenberg ownership provenance
✔ Continuous history from new – no gaps in documentation
✔ Eligible for Mille Miglia, Le Mans Classic, Goodwood Revival, and more
✔ Ideal for historic rallies, vintage competition, or concours display