Bentley 4½ Litre Blower 1930 - Birkin Spec

Some cars are admired. Others are experienced. This Bentley Blower belongs firmly in the latter category.

Shaped in period by the respected H.J.K. Townshend, a craftsman trusted by original Team Bentley owners, this example reflects a deep understanding of what defines a true Blower. Authentic in spirit and purposeful in execution, it presents today as a motorcar built not only to be seen, but to be driven.

Driving Experience

On the road it reveals its character immediately. As the revs rise, the engine note hardens into a raw mechanical voice, accompanied by immense torque that feels astonishing even by modern standards. Leaves scatter as it passes, the wind meets your face, and for a moment the decades fall away. This is the sensation Sir Tim Birkin pursued when he challenged convention and embraced supercharging, despite W.O. Bentley’s well-known reservations.

Mechanical Specification

Mechanically the car reflects that philosophy. A heavy crankshaft engine, D-Type racing gearbox and competition-correct components place it close in spirit to the factory-built cars. It has been driven and exercised as intended, including participation in the Mille Miglia, and remains notably complete with important period details such as its original tool kit.

History & Provenance

Originally supplied to Mr. D.D. Williams and maintained by Bentley Motors during the 1930s, the car later passed into the hands of H.J.K. Townshend after the Second World War. During his custodianship it evolved into its present configuration, receiving a Vanden Plas Le Mans Tourer body with full wings, executed with clear respect for period aesthetics and competition heritage.

Usability

Blower Bentleys have become increasingly difficult to acquire, particularly for those seeking the driving experience without the constraints of an original, highly valuable example.

This particular car was built to Blower specifications, offering the character and presence of the original design while allowing for more regular use. Retaining UK registration GJ 6301, it is well-suited for historic touring and long-distance driving.

Previous journeys from the Netherlands to Scotland underline its usability and the confidence it inspires behind the wheel.

Numbers

There is a natural harmony between this car and its driver, like a knight and his sword. The chassis AD3665 and engine AD3661 come together, reinforcing the integrity and balance that define this Bentley.

A Personal Note

The Blower was the car that first ignited my fascination with English automobiles and ultimately led me into this world professionally. For that reason it carries meaning beyond engineering alone. Now it is ready to continue its journey with a new custodian, wherever in the world that may be, and perhaps inspire the same passion once again.

Further information is always available, and you are warmly invited to visit our website through the provided link. We welcome a genuine conversation and remain open-minded and creative in exploring the possibilities of reaching an agreement.

Kind regards,

Rikkert Zee

Phone: +31 6 17 33 35 91

Owner of Zee Cartwell

https://www.zeecartwell.com/auto/bentley-41-2-litre-blower-1930