1949/50 Bentley Park Ward Drophead

 

Year:	1949/50
Make:	Bentley
Model:	Park Ward Drophead

Description:

This rare Bentley was hand-built by the Park Ward bodying shop in late 1949 and titled in 1950—hence its dual year designation. This Bentley Park Ward is one of the highly sought after “coach built” vehicles, made even more desirable by the limited number of convertibles that were commissioned. Built for the export market, this is a factory left hand drive car that was originally imported into Canada.

The car is tastefully finished in a two-tone silver and silver/blue format to a near perfect quality. There is a matching gray convertible top that is electrically operated for effortless opening and closing. The top, when down, is covered with a snap on cover that matches the interior upholstery color.

The interior is finished in blue leather which is in very good condition, supple and smooth to the touch. The door panels are finished with the “sunburst” pattern that are themselves works of art. The interior wood on the Bentley was just refinished this winter by a California company that specializes in Pebble Beach quality wood restoration/refinishing. Despite being a convertible, there is a great deal of leg room in the rear seat for passengers, providing luxurious travel for the driver and three companions.

And whether the trip is simply out for a picnic lunch or on an overnight journey, this is a car that has abundant trunk storage space. The spare tire is ingeniously mounted on a swivel so it tucks out of the way but is readily accessible should it be needed. The four mounted tires are nearly new Coker radial ply wide whitewalls that combine the elegance of the wide whitewall with the stability and greater safety of radials.

Mechanically, this Bentley starts right up at the touch of the starter button and the famous in-line six runs so quietly that you have to listen closely to hear that it’s running. The transmission is actuated through a column mounted four speed that shifts smoothly in all gears and has synchromesh on 2nd through 4th. The clutch and throw-out bearing were replaced less than a thousand miles ago to ensure even greater reliability and performance.

Best of all, this is a fun car to drive! With the top down, there is a huge expanse of cockpit that is open for enjoying the convertible experience. With the top and windows up, there is protection against the elements should it be needed, although this car is almost never out in inclement weather. The engine and transmission combine to make this drophead a spirited performer in the true tradition of Bentley’s, and for its time, one of the fastest Bentley’s made.