1964 Bentley S3 Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: BJS333B
Chassis No: B318FG
Mot Expiry: Sept 2008

Final evolution of the Bentley 'S' Series, the S3 was launched in late 1962. Still sporting a silhouette made famous by its predecessors, it was distinguished by quad front headlamps and a lower bonnet line. Corresponding sleeker front wings sported indicator units frenched into their leading edges, while the imposing front and rear chrome bumpers wore more modest over-riders. Internally, the driver and front seat passenger gained separate chairs. Those in the rear benefited too, courtesy of a more upright back to their bench seat and narrower side bolsters. Mechanically, the independent coil-and-wishbone front suspension and hypoid-bevel rear axle were retained along with all-round drum brakes, power-assisted steering and four-speed automatic transmission. Though, to capitalise on the new model's smaller frontal area, the 6230cc V8 engine gained more power via a carburettor modification and higher compression ratio. Thus, the S3 claimed both a higher top speed and better acceleration than its predecessor at 116mph and 0-60mph in 10.8 seconds respectively.

Finished in grey over silver with red leather upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "fair" (wheels / tyres, paintwork), "fair-to-good" (bodywork) or "good" (engine, transmission, chassis, interior trim) condition. Although, primarily maintained in-house since entering the current garagiste family ownership during 1972, 'BJS 333B' was entrusted to marque specialist Overtons for a £3,800 brake system overhaul in 2006 (while, other major work is said to have included an automatic gearbox refurbishment "some 7-8 years ago"). Believed but not warranted to have covered just 68,000 miles from new (a figure partially substantiated by old MOT certificates), this imposing Bentley is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until September 2008.