This is what a supercar was like a century ago
Summary
Bentley recently took journalists to drive its new Supersports model and also gave them a ride in a historic Bentley Super Sports car from the 1920s. The original Super Sports car, built between 1925 and 1927, was one of the fastest cars of its time, able to exceed 100 mph, while featuring a lighter and more driver-focused design.Key Facts
- Bentley built 18 original Super Sports cars between 1925 and 1927.
- The car was based on a 3 Litre model but had a shorter wheelbase to improve handling.
- The original Super Sports could go over 100 mph, much faster than typical cars of that era.
- The example called "Smoky" was built in 1926 and had two seats with custom bodywork.
- Later, its engine was upgraded to a 4.5 L motor from a winning Le Mans race car.
- Smoky won seven races at Brooklands between 1935 and 1937, reaching nearly 117 mph.
- The car lacks modern safety features like seat belts and airbags.
- Controls are different from modern cars, with the brake and accelerator pedals swapped.
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