Lot 319: 1956 Bentley S1 Continental Drophead Coupe by Park Ward

To many connoisseurs the Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars of the Fifties and early Sixties were the last cars displaying the traditional craftsmanship for which Rolls-Royce had become world-famous. Their separate chassis allowed an uncommon elegance of coachwork design, either by the Crewe factory itself or by independent coachbuilders such as H.J. Mulliner, Park Ward and James Young; the unitary construction of body and chassis of all subsequent models all but ended such a traditional association.The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud and Bentley S series, announced in April 1955, employed such a chassis. Power was provided by the 4,887cc straight six engine of the R-Type Continental producing an estimated 158bhp which, via the four speed automatic transmission, allowed a top speed of 100mph.The use of the term Continental to indicate a high performance version of an existing chassis was an inspiration of Sir Henry Royce, and was first applied to the short chassis version of the Phantom II in 1930. Pleased with the success of the R-Type Continental, Bentley decided to offer a Continental version of the S series as well.To compliment the added performance and charisma of the Continental variant, a number of bespoke designs were produced for it by the few remaining independent coachbuilders. Of these, the Drophead Coupe produced by Park Ward is regarded as one of the most popular and certainly collectable of the S1 series. It's elegant and sporting lines, retaining a timeless appeal whilst not compromising the all important Bentley formality.This beautiful condition left hand drive car produced in 1956 was restored to a high standard just prior to its sale in America in 1994. Finished in Burgundy with luxurious Tan interior it is fitted with a power hood and air conditioning. It has resided in an internationally known collection since coming to Europe and has had all relevant taxes paid. Continental Bentley's of this kind have for some time been at the top of the list for discerning car connoisseurs and extremely well presented examples such as this will continue to find favour.