Story and Photos Mike Spicer
When it comes to everyday use of a classic car there is no better example than Dick and Ann Tilden’s 1924 Bentley three liter “Speed” model. From classic rallies to short trips to the supermarket, this car gets out of the garage often.
Dick was attracted to Bentley and Rolls Royce cars first for their styling, and soon became enamored with their high quality of engineering. Back in the day mechanics weren’t as common as today so the cars came equipped with spare spark plugs and a detailed factory instruction manual. The information provided with these cars is priceless when it comes to maintaining a 95 year old car!
Being a little smaller than the current Bentleys offered, the three liter “Speed” model was still a big car compared to other race cars and the dominant Bugattis of the time. Bigger, stronger, and faster, a 1924 Bentley three liter “Speed” model won the famous French race the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
People of all ages are encouraged to sit in the driver seat and experience a personal 1924 time warp. Sharing the car brings great joy and exposes others to the technology available at the time.
Very little dust settles on this Bentley as Dick and Ann use it often for adventures rain or shine. From local errands around town to long tours in the countryside, it’s a joy to crank the engine and hit the road.