A unique 1929 Bentley Speed Six with Ukrainian roots is up for auction at $3.5 million (photos)
In the U.S., a rare 1929 Bentley Speed Six classic car—whose body was designed by Ukrainian-born Yakov Savchik—is being sold at the prestigious Gooding & Company auction. The legendary sports convertible could set a new price record—the starting bid is $3.5 million.
The 1929 Bentley Speed Six—the finest British sports car of its time
The Bentley Speed Six was created as a sports version of the classic Bentley 6½ Litre. The car made motorsport history by winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice, in 1929 and 1930.
🔹 Engine: 6.5-liter inline-six producing 180 l.s.
🔹 Top speed: 180 km/h
🔹 Acceleration to 100 km/h: about 8 seconds (which was a phenomenal result in 1929)
A total of 182 Bentley Speed Six cars were produced, most of which were fitted with unique, custom-built bodies.
The body by Saoutchik was the work of Ukrainian Jacques Saoutchik
The Bentley convertible offered for sale features a body by the famous Parisian atelier Saoutchik, founded by the Ukrainian Yakov Savchik (Jacques Saoutchik). He emigrated to France and became one of the most outstanding automotive coachbuilders of the first half of the 20th century.
From 1905 to 1955, Savchik created bodies for Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Delahaye, Mercedes-Benz, and, of course, Bentley. His style combined luxury, innovation, and craftsmanship of the highest order.
The Interior of the Saoutchik Bentley Speed Six
The interior of this vintage convertible is trimmed with fine leather and polished natural silver. The elegant cabin design reflects the craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility that continue to delight classic car collectors to this day.
History of This Specific Car
🔹 First owner—San Francisco broker William Leib
🔹 Has changed hands several times; the car is
in excellent condition 🔹 Underwent a complete restoration in the UK 10 years ago
🔹 It has been featured in classic car shows in the U.S. and Europe
