Year : 1960
Make : Bentley
Model : S2 Continental
Coachbuilder : H.J.Mulliner
Price : P.O.A.
Body Type : Six Light Flying Spur
Colour : Dark Green
Trim : Beige Leather
Condition : 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 BC21BY 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 December of 1960 and supplied through Rippon Bros to its first owner, Mr W Jarratt. Since the early 1960's it has had a further five owners, with the most recent acquiring the car in 1988 and keeping it ever since. Chassis No BC21BY has enjoyed a number of improvements in recent years, including an engine overhaul four years ago, the car has since travelled 8,000 miles following the re-build. Other improvements were carried out, including some to the interior trim and woodwork, producing a very attractive finish. Most recently, the car has been recommissioned in our workshops to ensure reliability, correct performance and pleasurable motoring. The completed car presents very well and is also fitted with air conditioning to further enhance the next owners enjoyment of the car. It comes complete with correct tools, handbook and history file documenting the expenditure over the past decade and beyond. The Flying Spur design by H.J.Mulliner continues to be appreciated by many and is perhaps the most practical post war Bentley Continental. Chassis No BC21BY is a very fine example that we are delighted to be offering for sale at this time.