1930 Bentley 4.5 Litre Supercharged

The Bentley had already seen proven success in endurance racing, was considered unbeatable in Le Mans from 1927 to 1930. Reluctantly, Bentley supercharged the engine for more horsepower, pressured by Sir Henry Birkin and opened up availability to the public. Although setting many speed records with its 240 horsepower, the upgrade couldn't handle the endurance it had originally dominated.

1929, Bentley replaced the 4.5 litre and opted to race the higher capacity Speed 6. Three 'Birkin Blowers' were entered to compete alongside the Bentley Speed 6s at the 1930 Le Mans. In the event, only one Blower, (Birkins own No. 2 car), started the race. Under Walter Owen Bentley's tactical team management, Birkin's role was to draw the Mercedes of Carraciola and Werner into a high-speed duel, which he successfully achieved. The Blower lead from the start, swapping the lead with the Mercedes throughout the night, until eventually the German car withdrew with a blown engine. Birkins success came at a cost, as he had to retire after 20 hours with a bent valve, leaving the two Speed 6s to take 1st and 2nd Places.

Power: 240bhp

Wheelbase: 3 metres

Weight: 1,930kg

Models & Model Kits are supplied unpainted and unassembled unless otherwise noted.