Lot 449: 1965 Bentley S3 Standard Steel Saloon

To many connoisseurs, the Rolls-Royce and Bentley models of the fifties and early sixties were the last cars displaying the traditional craftsmanship for which Rolls-Royce had become world famous. The Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud and Bentley S series, announced in April 1956, featured coil spring/wishbone front suspension with semi-elliptic rear springs and a single radius arm to locate the live rear axle, along with centralised lubrication and all-round drum brakes. Power was provided by the 4,887cc straight six engine of the R-Type Continental with a new cylinder head producing around 150bhp. A four speed automatic transmission produced a top speed of l00mph. The evolution Silver Cloud II and S2 models of 1959 used Rolls' own new light alloy V8 engine but otherwise differed only in having long life chassis lubrication, standard power steering, increased front braking effort, a reduction in rear roll stiffness, a new ventilation system and a revised facia. With a capacity of 6,230cc the V8 was also notably livelier and produced around 200bhp. For the Silver Cloud III and S3 models introduced in October 1962, quickly distinguishable by four headlamps, the specification remained unchanged bar another increase of around 20bhp which lifted top speed to 115mph. The option of coachbuilt bodywork was available but most clients chose the handsome factory styled Standard Steel body as fitted to this example. This car, delivered in 1965 by Jack Barclay, is described as being in good condition throughout by the owner. It has driven only 31,000 miles from new and has had a huge amount of money spent on keeping it in the best condition possible with a file documenting bills from Silver Lady Services in Dorset. It has an MoT which lasts until March 2006 and is complete with handbook and V5 registration documents. Furthermore, the car has an upgraded sound system, with a Blaupunkt quad amp system located in the boot and Verona head unit in the front. Pure sound with pure elegance.