Built in January of 2003, this was the first of five Speed 8 chassis built.
Following extensive test sessions, it made its competition debut at the Sebring 12 Hours. Piloted by Tom Kristensen, Dindo Capello and Guy Smith, it qualified second and eventually finished the race in fourth. Its next outing was the official test at Le Mans where it set the fastest time. For the race it was replaced by chassis 004/5; the eventual winner. Not raced again, it was demonstrated in its Le Mans test colours at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed where the tenth anniversary of Bentley’s 1-2 victory was celebrated.
In early 2018, it was sold by Bentley to a prominent British collector and historic racer. Beautifully prepared by specialists Moto Historics and re-finished in its 2003 Sebring livery, chassis 004/1 was first pressed into service at the 2018 Spa Classic. It is also expected to line-up during the Le Mans Classic.
Built in January of 2003, this was the first of five Speed 8 chassis built.
Following extensive test sessions, it made its competition debut at the Sebring 12 Hours. Piloted by Tom Kristensen, Dindo Capello and Guy Smith, it qualified second and eventually finished the race in fourth. Its next outing was the official test at Le Mans where it set the fastest time. For the race it was replaced by chassis 004/5; the eventual winner. Not raced again, it was demonstrated in its Le Mans test colours at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed where the tenth anniversary of Bentley's 1-2 victory was celebrated.
In early 2018, it was sold by Bentley to a prominent British collector and historic racer. Beautifully prepared by specialists Moto Historics and re-finished in its 2003 Sebring livery, chassis 004/1 was first pressed into service at the 2018 Spa Classic. It is also expected to line-up during the Le Mans Classic.
