Lot details
Registration No: MJL 57
Chassis No: B218FA
Mot Expiry: Oct 2018

- Part of the Old Hall collection since 2012

- Supplied new by H. Leverton & Co Ltd of Spalding to Derek Crouch Esq. of Peterborough

- Original buff logbook and registration number, MOT'd till October 2018

Typifying the growing economic confidence of the mid 1950s, the Bentley S1 was larger, faster and more boldly styled than its R-Type predecessor. Introduced in 1955, there was nothing average about its 'Standard Steel Saloon' bodywork. A masterclass in formal elegance, it was underpinned by a new cruciform-braced box-section chassis equipped with independent coil-sprung front suspension, a 'live' rear axle and servo-assisted four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a twin SU carburettor fed 4887cc straight-six engine allied to standard-fit four-speed automatic transmission, the S1 could exceed 100mph. Once affectionately described as "a veritable country club on wheels", the model's inviting leather-and-wood trimmed cabin promised relaxation and contentment. Some 2,927 S1 Standard Steel Saloons were made prior to the arrival of the V8-powered S2 in 1959.

According to its original buff logbook, this particular example - chassis B218FA - was supplied new via dealer H. Leverton & Co Ltd of Spalding to Derek Crouch Esq. of Peterborough on 15th July 1958. Belonging to Mr & Mrs Thesiger of Hyde Park Gardens, London W2 (1963-1975) and Mrs Veronica Davis of Beinling Ltd, Ilford, Essex (1975-?) thereafter, the Bentley was acquired by its previous keeper, Michael Betts Esq. of Wickford, Essex during 2011. Joining the Old Hall collection a year later, the S1 was treated to some £1,642.44 worth of fettling by marque specialist Prestige Services of Leeds during May 2016. As well as a new Olive West of England cloth headlining and other trim work, the Sports Saloon benefited from attention to its ignition, carburettors and seat belts plus an oil change. Pleasingly retaining its original registration number `MJL 57' and seemingly much of its factory-fitted Green leather upholstery, this appealing Bentley is offered for sale with a MOT certificate valid until October 2018 (plus old certificates dating back to 1974).