1929 Bentley 4.5 Litre Single-Seater "Bentley Blower" Nr. 1
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The Bentley 4.5 Litre Single-Seater, known as the "Bentley Blower" Nr. 1, is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering that dates back to 1929. Widely regarded as one of the most famous vintage cars in the world, this exceptional vehicle features an array of technical details that set it apart from its contemporaries.
The heart and soul of the Bentley Blower Nr. 1 is its 4.5-litre engine, which uses a Roots-type supercharger to generate an incredible output of 240 horsepower at 4,000 rpm. This six-cylinder engine is equipped with an overhead camshaft and four valves per cylinder, making it a true pioneer of its time. The engine is also fitted with a twin spark ignition system to ensure smooth and reliable performance.
Beneath the sleek exterior of the Bentley Blower Nr. 1 lies a robust chassis that has been designed to withstand the rigors of high-speed racing. The chassis is constructed from steel tubing and features a front axle that is supported by a set of semi-elliptical leaf springs. At the rear, the car is equipped with a live axle suspended by quarter-elliptical leaf springs.
The brakes on the Bentley Blower Nr. 1 are hydraulic and servo-assisted, a key advancement at the time. The car comes with four-wheel drum brakes, and these can be seen through the traditional wire-spoke wheels, which are finished with classic 40-inch tires for maximum grip and control.
Inside the car, the driver sits in a singular, open cockpit in complete view of the road ahead. The steering wheel is mounted centrally, providing perfect balance for the driver, while the gauges and dials are mounted in a flat instrument panel.
The Bentley Blower Nr. 1 was adorned with a classic green and black racing livery and has become a true icon in motoring history, as it dominated racing circuits across Europe. Its impressive technical details, classic design, and dominant displays on racing circuits has been an inspiration for automotive enthusiasts and professionals for over 90 years.
Milestones
- Designed by Tim Birkin, a member of the Bentley racing team - First completed in 1929 and initially named "No.1" - Fitted with a supercharger, earning it the nickname "Bentley Blower" - Competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1929 and 1930 - Finished in 2nd place at the 1930 Le Mans race, setting a lap speed record of 86.53 mph - Continued to race and set records throughout the 1930s, including a top speed of 137 mph at Brooklands in 1932 - Changed owners several times after World War II, including being owned by Formula One team owner Rob Walker in the 1950s - Sold at auction in 2012 for a record-breaking $7 million USD.Technical
- Engine: 4.5-liter supercharged inline-four - Power Output: 240 horsepower - Transmission: Four-speed manual - Top Speed: Approximately 120 mph - Weight: 2,510 pounds - Wheelbase: 9 feet 9 inches - Tires: 5.50-19 front, 6.00-19 rear - Suspension: Semi-elliptic leaf springs front and rear with Hartford friction dampers - Brakes: Four-wheel mechanical drum brakes - Fuel Tank Capacity: 25 gallons - Body Material: Aluminum - Front Suspension: Rigid axle with leaf springs - Rear Suspension: Live axle with leaf springs - Steering: Worm and wheel - Design: Single-seater racing car with aerodynamic bodywork and open cockpit.Related manufacturer
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