Year : 1960
Make : Bentley
Model : S2 Continental
Coachbuilder : H.J.Mulliner
Price : P.O.A
Body Type : Six Light Flying Spur
Colour : Burgundy
Trim : Beige Leather
Condition : Very good condition throughout
Technical Data : Four speed automatic gearbox, power steering, 8 cylinder 90 degree V-configuration engine, 6.2 litres displacement, 6230cc capacity. Drum brakes servo-assisted.

The S1 Continental engine had effectively run its course by 1959 and could not be developed any further. The approximate 160bhp power output was more than sufficient but due to pressures and competition elsewhere Rolls-Royce sought out an improved power unit to deliver more speed whilst retaining the Bentley Continentals refined performance. The answer was a complete move away from the six cylinder inline engine configuration, to an all new V8 engine boasting 6,230cc and an estimated 200bhp boosting the power by nearly 25%. It had been developed at Crewe for some years prior to being fitted to the first S2 Continental chassis at the Hooper works in December of 1959 and was an immediate success. It was constructed almost entirely in aluminium and was of a very similar weight to the S1 Continentals engine, but featured hydraulic tappets to ensure quiet running. A few other mechanical aspects were modified including the braking and lubrication systems, with automatic transmission now a standard fitting, making the Bentley S2 Continental a motor car capable of speeds approaching 120mph. At a glance it would appear to be identical to the earlier S1 Continental Flying Spur, but there are a few subtle differences. These include a slightly lower radiator shell and scuttle, resulting in a slightly more downward sloping bonnet, giving the car a more sporty appearance. The boot line was also lowered a few inches to sit directly above the rear bumper blade, with the rear number plate and lighting arrangement moved onto the lower section of the boot. Inside the car it came fitted with a slightly leaner steering wheel as well as stalk operated indicators. Chassis No BC32AR which we are currently offering for sale is one of just sixty four examples built to Design No 7508 in right hand drive on the S2 Continental chassis. It was completed in February of 1960, finished originally in sand with a tan interior. It was supplied by Attwood and Sons Ltd in Wolverhampton to Copeland & Jenkins of Sussex. It was then purchased by Captain M Campbell in March of 1963, B A Peskin in December 1966 and E Aron in July of 1967. The car was then owned by a long term customer of Frank Dale & Stepsons during the 1990's before being acquired by the former managing director of our company James Crickmay, who used it as his personal car for many years. During his ownership the car was maintained in our workshops and also re-trimmed in 2007, in beige leather and matching carpets. In 2011 James sold BC32AR to another long standing customer who has enjoyed ownership for the past five years. Most recently, the engine was completely overhauled in early 2016. It has covered very little mileage since and is in very good condition throughout. The car comes complete with a very nice history file, all large and small tools, copies of the original chassis cards and numerous invoices detailing the works carried out to BC32AR. It is also fitted with a modern stereo and IPod lead hidden in the glovebox and classic looking inertia reel seat belts throughout. BC32AR comes highly recommended and is a car we are delighted to be able to offer for sale once again.