Bentley S2 – 1962 - Lot 71

Bentley S2 – 1962 French registration title Sold without contrôle technique SANS RÉSERVE The prestigious car brand, now owned by Volkswagen and known for its luxury and racing cars, was founded on 18 January 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley. Its headquarters are in Cricklewood, north London. Bentley won five victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1920s with a car powered by a formidable 3-litre 6-cylinder overhead camshaft engine. The consequences of the 1929 crisis led to the end of Bentley’s independence, and it fell into the hands of Rolls-Royce in 1931. From then on, the development of the two brands would be inseparable. The ‘S’ series was launched in 1955 with the S1 replacing the R. The designation S1 was given retrospectively to distinguish it from the S2 and S3 that would follow. The Bentley S1 was the last car of the brand to be powered by a 6-cylinder in-line engine. Aesthetically, the S1 was very similar to its cousin, the Rolls Royce Silver Cloud. Its replacement, the S2, was launched in August 1959. The main innovation of the new version was its all-aluminium V8 engine with a displacement of 6,230 cm3. This new engine was a weapon to seduce the American market. More compact and lighter, it would be fitted to the brand’s models for a long time to come. The comfort on board is simply exceptional, with the combination of leather and wood trim making long journeys a pleasure, and the 4-speed automatic gearbox adding to the smoothness. The model presented here features a two-tone black and plum exterior, paired with a red leather interior. The car’s bodywork was restored a few years ago, and its original interior could do with some refurbishment, although its patina has a certain charm. The burr walnut woodwork and ceiling light are in satisfactory condition. This car is equipped with rear tables and four electric windows, ensuring the comfort of all its passengers. Never restored, it was acquired by its current owner in 2015. It has not been driven since and will therefore need to be restarted and serviced. This legendary classic Bentley offers timeless charm. It remains a safe bet: legend and pleasure at your fingertips.