1964 Bentley S3 Continental Drophead Coupe

The Bentley S2 fitted with V-8 power was introduced in 1959. Power-assisted steering was now standard and there was no longer the option of a manual gearbox. The sole gearbox was Rolls-Royce's own four-speed automatic unit.

The Continental was an exclusively built coachbuilt automobile. The firms of H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward and James Young all offered bodies on the Continental S2 chassis, which differed from the standard version by its four-leading shoe front brakes, shorter radiator and, up to chassis number BC99BY, higher gearing.

There were only 312 Bentley S3 Continental of all types. Chassis number BC8XC is one of only 76 bodied by H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward Ltd after the two firms' merger. It is a left-hand drive model and one of only 28 built. It was ordered new by H.R. Owen Ltd for H.O.H. Silley of Royal Albert Dock, London and delivered on December 16, 1963. It was originally painted Deep Bronze Green with beige leatherette. The car has since been repainted in deep burgundy with matching merlot dyed leather. It also has been given a recent cosmetic restoration.

In 2009, this S3 Continental Drop Head Coupe was offered for sale by Bonhams Auction at the Quail Lodge Resort and Golf Club in Carmel, CA. It was estimated to sell for $150,000 - $170,000. The lot left the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2009