Chassis number B111FC is one of only nine 3 ½ Litre Bentley’s that was sent new to Windovers Coachworks of London. The vehicles’ custom, one off body work mimics the look of a traditional Drophead coupe, however only the roof that covers the front seats rolls away to turn the gorgeous coupe into a well appointed Sedanca. The first owner, a Mr. Gootnick, specified that the car was constructed with town work and touring in mind as he planned to use the Bentley in the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) Rally. Records from the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club (RREC) show that Mr. Gootnick was particularly concerned with torque and acceleration as the chassis tests indicate. Mr. Gootnick took delivery of B111FC in March 1936 wearing the registration CUW 777, which it still shows today. Unusual body features include wheel discs covering the wire wheels undoubtedly for aero dynamic purposes; while an integrated rear trunk with rear mounted spare add a particular continental touch. B111FC has been collector owned since the 1970’s and was acquired from the estate of Dr. Mark Sheppard in 1978 by renowned collector Herbert Boyer. Boyer, a respected bio-chemist is credited with co-creating the field of genetic engineering and is the co-founder of the biotechnology company Genentech. Besides his award winning work in the field of medicine, Mr. Boyer is also known for his love of classic and rare automobiles and showed B111FC at the Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance in 1983 before commissioning a fresh body off restoration and returning the Bentley to Pebble Beach in 1993. By 2003 B111FC was in the hands of another California based collector who returned the vehicle to Pebble Beach for another showing. Considering how rare it is to have a vehicle is invited back to the Pebble Beach Concours having a single car shown three times over 30 years is nothing short of astounding and a true testament to the provenance of this incredible one off 3 ½ Litre Bentley. To date B111FC remains in gorgeous restored condition and is well respected in Bentley circles. The vehicle has been featured in numerous marque publications including the 2003 edition of Johnnie Green’s “Bentley: Fifty Years of the Marque” and would make a welcome addition to any premier collection.
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