Bentall (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

E.H. Bentall & Co. Ltd, based in Maldon, Essex, was an automotive manufacturer that operated from 1906 to 1913. The company had its origins in agricultural engineering, with a history that dated back to 1797. Initially, Bentall began small-scale production of automobiles in the early 20th century, introducing models such as two twins with 9 and 11 horsepower, as well as a 16/20 horsepower four-cylinder car.

The design of Bentall vehicles featured oversquare engine dimensions, specifically 100 x 95 mm, which placed them at a disadvantage under a tax system that assessed rates based solely on bore size. Despite this challenge, the company managed to sell a notable number of cars, primarily to farmers who were already familiar with Bentall's reputation in the agricultural sector. Some vehicles were also exported abroad. One of the last models produced, a 1912 16/20 cabriolet, was notably purchased by the Member of Parliament for Maldon.

Bentall cars were supplied in chassis form only, with most bodies being constructed by external coachbuilders such as W.F. Thorn of Islington, Munnions of Chelmsford, and Adams of Colchester. In total, approximately 100 Bentall vehicles were manufactured, with only one surviving unit known to exist today.