Year : 1961
Make : Bentley
Model : S2 Continental
Coachbuilder : H.J.Mulliner
Price : P.O.A.
Body Type : Six Light Flying Spur
Colour : Dark Blue
Trim : Tan Leather
Condition : Fully restored, in show condition
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 BC18CZ 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 October of 1961, finished originally in circassian blue with an off white leather interior. It was supplied when new by H.R.Owen Ltd in London to W.S.Lawson of Laughton Manor in Yorkshire. Following a period of ownership in the UK, the car was exported to Australia and subsequently restored. The works included a bare metal re-paint, a full re-trim, chrome and woodwork restoration and mechanical works. The original engine was removed at the time and a brand new unit was acquired directly from Bentley and shipped to Australia to be fitted, stamped as per the original (Engine No C17BC) The present owner acquired the car towards the end of the restoration process and shipped the car back to the UK where P&A Wood were entrusted to complete the works to their standard and also improve the car further. Bills for just under £100,000 are present with the car for works carried out by P&A Wood over the past three years. The car has covered less than 3,000 miles since the completion of the works. The finished article is perhaps the very best Bentley S2 Continental Flying Spur in the world. The car comes complete with air conditioning, a history file documenting the various works to the car, copy chassis cards and complete tools throughout. Chassis No BC18CZ is correctly described as being in first class condition in every respect and is a car we are delighted to be able to offer for sale at this time.