Bentley Other 1961 4Door

This Lot will be sold at auction at Symphony of Spring; Ascot Racecourse on Saturday 7th March. Significant history fileA rare and interesting exampleBearing its original number plateUnveiled at the 1959 London Motor Show, the new allalloy V8 engine transformed both the Bentley S2 and its sister model, the RollsRoyce Silver Cloud II. Producing approximately 200bhp though the company modestly described it as adequate the lightweight 6.2litre unit delivered noticeably improved smoothness and performance without increasing overall weight. Paired with RollsRoyces fourspeed automatic transmission and nowstandard power steering, the result was effortless, refined motoring. At the top of the range sat the S2 Continental, the most prestigious chassis specification. While visually similar to the standard S2, the Continental benefited from upgraded brakes and a higher rear axle ratio, making it faster, quieter and better suited to sustained highspeed European touring. Most S2s carried factory Standard Steel Saloon coachwork, but customers seeking exclusivity could commission bespoke bodies from H.J. Mulliner or Park Ward, both owned by RollsRoyce.Originally registered on 13th January 1961, this S2 Continental chassis was delivered to H.J. Mulliner in September 1960 and built as a twodoor saloon finished in Mist Green with green leather upholstery a colour scheme it still retains today. Much of the paintwork is believed to be original, carefully preserved by the current owner in the interests of authenticity. Supplied new by Jack Barclay Ltd to Mr Percy Levy of London, the car was specified with notable extras including a sunroof, electric windows, electric aerial, combined parking and flashing lights, a fire extinguisher and a Bentley mascot. A rear reading lamp and single rear headrest suggest chauffeur use. Purchased in 2017 for £265,000, the car has since benefited from substantial mechanical expenditure by Royce Engineering, including suspension, brake and carburettor overhauls, engine mount replacement and a major service, however the car has not been used much of late and will require some light recommissioning. Accompanied by invoices dating back to 1978 and its original build sheets, this charismatic and highly specified Bentley S2 Continental represents an appealing example of quintessential British grand touring. Consigned by Stewart Banks.