1962 Bentley S2 Continental Coupe

The Bentley S2 was introduced at the 1959 London Motor Show. It included an all-alloy 200 horsepower V8 engine which had the same overall weight as the six-cylinder unit found in the S1 models it replaced. The S2 was equipped with a four-speed GM HydraMatic transmission, power steering, and upgraded power-assisted brakes. The Continental raised the performance bar even further, with upgraded brakes and a higher rear axle ratio. Top speed was in the neighborhood of 113 miles per hour.

H.J. Mulliner & Sons and other respectable coachbuilders were called upon to create custom bodies to appeal to those searching for more. The coachbuilt S2 Continentals were luxurious, stylish, and desirable.

This example was originally a left-hand drive U.S specification car that was shipped on May 28th of 1962 to J.S. Inskip of New York. It was sold to Mr. Richard Dietrich of Villanova, Pennsylvania. Mr. Dietrich drove the car until the early 1970s. Since then, the car has been housed in a garage and well maintained. it has been driven just 27,000 miles since new and has remained in the same family since new.

This H.J. Mulliner coachbuilt S2 Continental is finished in two-tone color of Sand over Sable. It rides on new Michelin tires. There are Sable-colored steel wheels with trim rings, hubcaps, and red pin striping. The interior is trimmed with tan Connolly leather upholstery and gorgeous walnut woodwork. There is an upgraded 'Metravox' AM/FM radio, air conditioning system, electrically operated windows, a heater, and seat-belt anchors and luggage straps.

In 2008, this car was brought to the 2nd Annual Vintage Motor Cars of Hershey presented by RM Auctions where it was estimated to sell for $175,000-$225,000. Bidding exceeded those expectations, reaching $264,000 including buyer's premium. The lot was sold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2008