Lot details Registration No: CSK 513 Chassis No: B400BS Mot Expiry: March 2010
Launched in 1959, the Bentley S2 and its sister car the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II were seemingly visually interchangeable with the outgoing S1 and Cloud I models. Although, underpinned by the same chassis layout as their predecessors (complete with independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension, a leaf-sprung 'live' rear axle and all-round, servo-assisted drum brakes), the duo boasted an all-new powerplant. Rolls-Royce's first V8 engine since the Edwardian 30HP 'Legalimit', the 6230cc unit gave notable improvements in both power and flexibility. Suddenly, these wonderfully elegant if un-aerodynamic saloons were capable of close to 120mph via their four-speed automatic gearboxes. A strong sales success, especially in the USA, the Cloud II's introduction led David Ogilvy's advertising agency to produce the classic tag line "At 60 mph the loudest noise in this new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock". Naturally, the S2 proved to be similarly refined.
Finished in silver over blue with blue leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "OK to poor" (coachwork), "poor" (paintwork) or "very good" (engine, automatic transmission) condition. Reportedly supplied new by Jack Barclay to C. Winslow-Taylor Esq. of Ascot, chassis number B400BS was initially registered as `CWT 1'. Returning to the famous London dealer some three years later, the Bentley was re-registered as '65 HYL' and sold to Ernest & Henry Ltd of County Durham. Thereafter, the S2 is known to have passed through the hands of W.G. Burrin Esq, Roger Bennett Esq (who is thought to have taken it to America), J. Deerhenderson Esq and John McHughes Esq before entering the current ownership in 2003. Over the last six years, the saloon has reportedly been treated to "some £14,000 worth of expenditure including engine, automatic gearbox and brake system overhauls". Fitted with new carpets by former James Young apprentice Kevin O'Keefe, the Bentley is said to "drive so beautifully that the body and chrome really deserve to be done". While, we are further informed that the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club have indicated they would be willing to help with an application for the registration number `CWT 1' to be reunited with the car on a non-transferable basis. Riding on correct type steel wheels, this appealing S2 is offered for sale with buff logbook (relating to '65 HYL'), V5 registration document and MOT certificate valid until March 2010.
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