R V Aircraft Focke-Wulf Fw-190D-11

Under Walter Owen Bentley’s tactical team management, Birkins role was to draw the Mercedes of Carraciola and Werner into a high speed duel, which he successfully acheived. The Blower lead from the start, swapping the lead with the Mercedes throughout the night, until eventually the German car withdrew with a blown engine. Birkin’s success came at a cost, as he had to retire after 20 hours with a bent valve, leaving the two Speed 6’s to take 1st and 2nd Places.