Lot 228: Bentley S2 Standard Steel Saloon

The S Series Bentley was first seen in 1955 as a factory built Standard Steel Saloon but coachbuilt version were also offered by H. J. Mulliner, Park Ward, James Young and Hooper. The prettiest of these coachbuilt offerings were the Continental 2 Door cars by Park Ward and Mulliner, especially the Mulliner Fastback, which continued in a similar vein to the fabulous R Type Continental. When "The Autocar" tested the new SI in 1955, they described the experience as being more akin to a magic carpet ride, soaking up endless miles effortlessly. This description was based on a standard steel saloon.. In 1959 the S2 version was launched with the, all new, 6230cc V8 engine under the elegant bonnet. The S2 also came with power steering and automatic transmission as standard fittings. A/C was also available but was considered, in 1959, as superfluous in the UK but the power steering was a great hit, especially in the USA, where they had found the lack of it, on the S1, somewhat confusing. Offered here is a very sound, running S2 Standard Steel Saloon, which is in need of some TLC to bring it back to its best. Supplied on 4th May 1962 by Loxhams of Preston to a Mr. F. Hawtin of Blackpool on the registration FH 17. By February 1965 it had been acquired by Swears and Wells of Marble Arch House, London W1and in January 1966 was supplied to Goodenough Pumps Ltd of 112 Jermyn Street SW1. The original order shows that the car was specified with electric windows, optional radio and Avon tubules tyres. It was finished in Regal red with beige hide interior, which it retains to this day. The car starts and runs but is in need of recommisioning after some time in storage. Offered complete with the interesting registration JMC 1B, which is non transferable and copies of the original factory order.