W.O. Bentley
Bentley conquered Le Mans five times (1924, 1927, 1928, 1929, 1930).
Walter Owen Bentley (16 September 1888 – 13 August 1971) was an English engineer who founded Bentley in London. He built the firm into one of the world's premier luxury and performance auto manufacturers, and led the marque to multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
- Role
- Founder & Chief Engineer
- Affiliation
- Bentley Motors (Historic)
- Le Mans Wins
- 5
- Peak Era
- 1924-1930
- Key Vehicles
- Speed Six, Blower Bentley, 8-litre
- Status
- Deceased
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Bentley's cars won Le Mans in 1924, 1927, 1928, 1929, and 1930. The 1927 winner was a 3-litre car driven by Dudley Benjafield and Sammy Davis. The supercharged 'Blower' version of the 4½-litre car, developed against Bentley's wishes, proved poor in durability and failed on the track.
In Their Own Story
The rivalry between W.O. Bentley and his drivers often centered on engineering philosophy. When Sir Henry 'Tim' Birkin insisted on supercharging the 4½-litre engine to create the 'Blower,' W.O. vehemently opposed it, stating that doing so would 'pervert its design and corrupt its performance.' Despite this, Barnato overruled W.O., using funds from his Baromans Ltd investment vehicle to purchase fifty cars for Birkin to modify. The resulting machines were undoubtedly fast but suffered from overstressed engine components, making them unreliable on the long endurance circuits. Meanwhile, Woolf Barnato proved that raw reliability and strategy could triumph; in March 1930, he wagered £100 that his 6½-litre Speed Six could beat the Blue Train from Cannes to Calais, then ferry to Dover and drive to London, a feat he accomplished successfully.
Reader's Guide
Bentley's Le Mans victories: 1924 (3 Litre), 1927 (3 Litre), 1928, 1929, 1930 (Speed Six).
Did You Know?
- Bentley was awarded the MBE for his aero engine work during World War I.
- He completed a five-year apprenticeship with the Great Northern Railway.
- Bentley raced motorcycles in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy in 1909 and 1910, but did not finish either race.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was W.O. Bentley?
Walter Owen 'W.O.' Bentley was the founder and chief engineer of Bentley Motors, establishing his company in London in 1919 to build cars based on his own designs rather than importing French vehicles.
What was W.O. Bentley's specific role at Le Mans?
Although he never drove competitively himself, he served as the mastermind engineer who designed the legendary Speed Six and Blower models that secured five victories for the brand between 1924 and 1930.
What key innovation did W.O. Bentley introduce to his engines?
He pioneered the use of aluminum pistons in automotive engines, an adaptation he first developed for Sopwith Camel aircraft during World War I before applying it to his racing cars.
Why is W.O. Bentley considered so important to Le Mans history?
His engineering vision created a dynasty that dominated the early years of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, laying the technical groundwork for the famous 'Bentley Boys' era.
How did the story of W.O. Bentley's racing career conclude?
While his direct involvement ended with the financial collapse of his company in the late 1930s and his subsequent death in 1971, his legacy remains defined by the six Le Mans wins achieved through his designs.
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