Beschreibung:

For Bentley and Rolls-Royce, the star of the 1959 London Motor Show was their first all alloy V8 engine in both the Bentley S2 and its cousin, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II. The engine produced approximately 200 bhp (Bentley and Rolls-Royce would never quote horsepower figures, preferring to state that it was adequate) and, by virtue of its alloy construction, weighed the same as the 4.8-litre six-cylinder engine it replaced. The result was a smoother, more powerful ride. Bentley also offered the S2 in the elegant ""Continental"", the highest specification of the chassis. Although quite similar to the standard S2, the Continentals featured upgraded brakes and a higher rear axle ratio to handle the more demanding requirements for high speed cruising on the European continent, with its more modern motorways. Continentals were consistently faster, quieter and more comfortable than standard production cars. Most Bentley S2s carried factory ""Standard Steel Saloon"" coachwork, which satisfied the company's commercial requirements, but not necessarily those of all its customers. For those preferring something more exclusive, Bentley and Rolls-Royce were still offering bespoke coachwork, which was executed by and large on the Bentley Continental, as opposed to the standard S2 by H.J. Mulliner and Park Ward. Both coachbuilding companies were owned by Rolls-Royce. Park Ward was entrusted with the development of an open S2 Continental. The design of the resulting Drop Head Coupe was created by Vilhelm Koren of Norway, who reportedly impressed Rolls-Royce hierarchy with a stunning Alfa Romeo at the Turin motor show. In a marked yet widely acclaimed departure from Continentals of years past, Koren's design employed a straight wingline, vestigal rear fins and new headlamp openings. Only 125 of these S2 Continental Park Ward Drop Head Coupes were ever built, 63 of which were right hand drive. In the time these Park Ward Bentley S2s were built, Rolls-Royce had merged H.J. Mulliner and Park Ward into one new entity: Mulliner-Park Ward. Here we have an exquisite Bentley S2 Convertible finished in Burgundy with magnolia trim. The vendor has been the proud owner of this Bentley since 1 st May 1997 and has enjoyed the car immensely. Throughout his ownership, the vehicle has had a full engine rebuild, new hood and interior trim. Together with the usual mechanical work necessary when owning such a marquee for 14 years. A comprehensive file of receipts is supplied confirming the major work carried out. Whether you are on holiday in the South of France or dining in London, driving such a unique, beautiful Bentley Convertible will always be a pleasure.