Lot 024: 1964 Bentley S3 Saloon

Introduced in late 1962, the S3 was the last of the imposing Bentley 'S' Series line. Visually distinguished by a restyled front end complete with quad headlamps, reprofiled wings and a lower bonnet line, the newcomer also boasted a more spacious interior that sat the front occupants on separate chairs and gave those in the rear a more upright bench. Retaining the same coil-and-wishbone independent front suspension, hypoid-bevel rear axle, power steering, four-speed automatic transmission and large diameter drum brakes as its predecessors, the model enjoyed superior performance thanks to a carburettor modification and increased compression ratio. Still displacing 6230cc, its admirably refined OHV V8 engine could reputedly whisk the elegant four-door saloon from 0-60mph in 10.8 seconds and on to 116mph. Not that the sumptuous cabin trimmed with the finest hides, wood veneers and carpets encouraged such behaviour. Only in production for three years, just 1,285 Bentley S3 Standard Steel Saloons are thought to have been made. Finished in Pine Green with beige leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition. Reportedly supplied to a RREC member by Frank Dale & Stepsons in 1999 (but not before �4,848 worth of pre-delivery work had been completed), 'YKE 435A' is also understood to have its automatic gearbox replaced by Sargeants of Goudhurst the following September (�2,545). Part exchanged against another Bentley during late November 2001, the S3 then passed to a Mr Nigel Baker who sold it to the current owners in July 2006. Apparently used to attend numerous RREC meetings, the air-conditioning equipped 'YKE 435A' is said to "drive very well". Offered for sale with copy build sheet, assorted bills from 1999 onwards, handbook, tools and MOT certificate valid until April 2009.