1963 Bentley S3 Continental Saloon

The Bentley S3 was introduced in October 1962 at the Paris Motor Show, and among its many updates was the new four-headlight design, similar to the styling of the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III that had launched earlier in the year. Other updates included a lowered hood line, a radiator grille that was lowered by 1 ½ inches, and the front fenders featured a restyle to house separate flashing indicators and smaller over-riders on the front and rear of the bumper. Under the hood, the engine received larger carburetors and 9.0:1 compression, endowing it with a top speed of up to 115 miles per hour.

This 1963 Bentley S3 Continental was sent to H.J. Mulliner on December 12, 1962, where it received a Flying Spur Saloon body. Upon completion, it was sent to the port on March 12, 1963, and left on the 'Sieqestein' for the United States three days later. It entered the care of its first owner, S.M. Swenson of Essex Falls, New Jersey, on 14 May 1963 by Peter Zage and Co., Ltd of New York City.

It is believed the car was given a restoration in the 1980s, with the body being refinished in its current shade of silver and accented with red and blue pinstripes. The interior was reupholstered during this time in royal blue leather. It was given a trunk-mounted air conditioning system that delivers cold air through vents mounted in the rear hat shelf.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2024