Museum of Science and Industry

Up to twelve vintage Bentleys parked up at the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) today, when the Bentley Drivers’ Club called in for a day visit. The cars included examples from the 1920s and 1930s, through to modern-day Bentleys, which are manufactured in Crewe, Cheshire.  

Nick Forder, Transport Curator at MOSI said: “I’m delighted to welcome the Bentley Drivers’ Club to the Museum. Bentley has had a long association with Manchester and the cars have been admired by motor enthusiasts throughout the world.”

Bentleys were first produced in Cricklewood, London by W.O. Bentley in 1920, and have been distributed in Manchester since 1922. Bentley was determined to create what he described as: “a fast car, a good car; the best in its class.” During the 1920s he achieved international recognition for his cars’ performances on the race track, but financially his company struggled to compete with Rolls Royce during the depression years of the 1930s.  

In 1931, Rolls Royce bought Bentley and production of the car moved to Derby. Gradually the distinctive Bentley image became merged with Rolls Royce, although cars such as the Bentley Mark VI and the R-Type Continental are considered classics of their time.  

In 1946 production of Bentleys moved to Crewe. In 1998 Bentley was bought by the Volkswagen Group.

For media information or photos please contact Sarah Roe Tel: 0161 606 0176 m: 07847 372647

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