Historic Bentley Barnato-Hassan: The Brooklands Legend
The Bentley Barnato-Hassan Special stands as a remarkable piece of motorsport history, holding the all-time Brooklands lap record at an astounding 142.6 mph. This unique 8-litre racing machine recently made an appearance at the 81st Members’ Meeting, demonstrating its enduring legacy in British motorsport.
Record-Breaking Achievement
The Barnato-Hassan’s notable accomplishments include:
- Breaking John Cobb’s previous record of 140.91 mph set in the Napier-Railton
- Maintaining the Brooklands lap record to this day
- Featuring a powerful 8-litre engine configuration
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Size | 8.0 liters |
| Record Speed | 142.6 mph |
| Event History | Brooklands Circuit Record Holder |
| Current Status | Active Competition Vehicle |
2024 Competition Appearance
The historic Bentley made its return to competitive racing at the 2024 Parnell Cup, which was part of the 81st Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport. Despite being engineered for high-speed straight-line performance, the vehicle tackled the more technical circuit layout.
This Bentley Barnato-Hassan Special is a one-of-a-kind record holder.
Key Personnel
The car’s current status is maintained through the expertise of:
- David Little – Current owner
- William Medcalf – Vintage Bentley specialist and car preparer
Historical Context
The Barnato-Hassan Special represents a significant era in British motorsport history. Built specifically for speed records at Brooklands, the car exemplifies the engineering excellence of its time.
The 8-litre powerhouse was built to break the Brooklands lap record, and it still holds it today.
The vehicle’s continued presence at modern motorsport events demonstrates both its historical significance and mechanical durability, bridging the gap between vintage racing heritage and contemporary competition.
