The success of the R-Type Continental ensured that a sporting version S-Type would be offered as part of the range and the Bentley S1 Continental was produced between 1955 and 1959. The robust 4.9 litre, six cylinder engine was retained but with higher compression, more efficient cylinder head porting, exhaust and camshaft. Power assisted steering becoming standard. The chassis was also up-rated and benefited from hydraulic brakes and ride control. The result was 120 M.P.H. performance in comfort and style. The production run of the S1 Continental was 431 chassis of which 114 were right hand drive Mulliner Fastbacks.
I sold this car to my client back in 2010 and when the time came to sell it he politely allowed me to market the car. The car arrived in the Mews in September 2021 and almost immediately another loyal old client appeared rejoicing in the opening up of travel restrictions and declaring an ambition to own an S1 Fastback. It was his lucky day because since I sold the car the first time around the car had been to Padgett Engineering and extensively upgraded and improved as only they can do it.
The car would still waft along with the air-conditioning and power steering keeping things cool but the handling and performance were warmed up a bit.
Finished in black with biscuit leather interior, this beautiful Continental is a most excellent example of this much sought after model. BC 49 AF is complete with all its tools and history file.
