Preview: H&H classic car sale, Duxford, 16 October

H&H is to offer this fascinating 1937 Bentley 3.5-litre in what it describes as 'the best preserved garage find' condition at its 16 October sale in Duxford. The car, which features Vanden Plas Drophead Coupe coachwork, has had just two owners and is showing 15,199 miles on the clock.

The car was first registered as DLO 936 on 1 March 1937, and was bought by its first owners, Robert S Hayward, who covered a mere 11,000 miles before offering it for sale in Edinburgh. It was spotted by the vendor’s late father, who recalled, 'How does one cope with blind passion? I was a ruined man. A visit to the showroom for a closer look was devastating. The car was immaculate, perfect, with tonneau covers and spares etc which had never been used. The asking price was beyond my means and in any case I had no driving licence or any sensible place to keep the car even if I were able to acquire it.'

He picked up the car in May 1954, and from then, it was either used sparingly, or housed in professional storage. Accompanying MoT certificates issued in May 1970 and April 1980 list recorded mileages of 15,030 and 15,195 respectively. The car has been unused for the past 30-or-so years, where it has been garaged alongside a Riley Kestrel 15/6 and Jaguar E-type V12 Roadster.

The only part of the car that has aged significantly is the slightly shrunken and discoloured hood, whereas the Red two-tone paintwork, matching leather upholstery all appear in great condition. The doors open and close with ease and their apertures are free from scuff marks. Indeed the whole car is a testament to the craftsmanship of Bentley and Vanden Plas.

H&H is offering the car with an estimate of £140,000-160,000, visit the website for more information.