Lot 067: 1963 BENTLEY S3 CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

The ultimate incarnation of the 'S' series Bentley cars, the Bentley S3 Standard Steel saloon was readily recognizable by its twin headlamps and, with 2 inch SU carburettors and a compression ratio of 9:1, gave an extra 15bhp over its predecessor, the S2. As with all of the other four door Continentals, the Flying Spur was significantly lower than the standard saloon giving rise to the false impression of greater length and an altogether more sporting appearance. The S3 Continental Flying Spur was only available from two coachbuilders, HJ Mulliner and James Young. Powered by a 6,230cc engine driving through a Hydramatic 4-speed automatic gearbox, 312 Continentals were built and sold to company heads and celebrities including Jayne Mansfield and Harry Belafonte. This example, built by HJ Mulliner of London was supplied new by Kennings London in 1963. Exported to the west coast of America in the 1980s it returned to the UK in early 2007 and, fortunately, has had its original registration number reinstated. Recent work undertaken has included a full repaint in Royal blue, together with extensive refurbishment of the engine and gearbox. Understood to be good example of this stylish evocative motorcar, '950 FY0' is supplied with a Swansea V5, MOT certificate expiring June 2008 and copies of the original factory build sheets.