Bentley 4 ¼ Litre cars were manufactured at the Derby works from 1936-39, and employed exactly the same chassis, gearbox and back-axle ratios as its immediate predecessor, the 3 ½ litre model. Both models were produced under the new direction of Rolls-Royce and exemplified R-R’s traditional quiet, smooth nature while manifestly demonstrating the handling qualities already attributed to the Bentley marque. Performance of both models was comparable, the main contrast being that the 4 and 1/4 litre had a more sophisticated lubrication system and offered a slightly superior mid-range performance. Among its famous string of sporty owners were land speed record-holder Sir Malcolm Campbell and Raymond Mays of ERA and BRM fame.