c1966 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL S3 FLYING SPUR BY MULLINER PARK WARD
c1966 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL S3 FLYING SPUR BY MULLINER PARK WARDEstimate $160,000 – $180,000
The final manifestation of the S series Bentleys and the last model to be built with a separate chassis in common with its sister car, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III, are distinguished by the quad-headlight system and a radiator mounted 1½ “ lower, resulting in a sloping bonnet line.
The Flying Spur was the first use of four doors on the Continental chassis, with the distinctive smaller than usual rear door. After a production run dating back to 1955 the S series cars in their final form enjoyed a great reputation for reliability. The production of a 4 door Continental was welcomed by those requiring the Bentley Continental standard and who needed a four door saloon.
Originally conceived by H.J. Mulliner coachbuilders and continued by the newly amalgamated group H.J. Mulliner Park Ward Limited, Each car was built to the buyers personal requirements taste and therefore creating truly unique cars in every sense. Many Bentley experts believe the S3 Flying Spur to be the finest car the company ever produced with stunning looks, impressive performance and unsurpassed quality.
The production total for the S3 Flying Spur was 86, 68 of these being right hand drive and 18 being left hand drive. The coachwork alone cost £3,425 compared to £1,420 for a standard model.
This very beautiful motor car was brought to Australia in c1988 and has been in the present ownership for 25 years; was originally delivered to Astoria Holdings Ltd by the local London dealer Charles Attwood and Sons of Wolverhampton UK and is fitted with factory air-conditioning and the optional leather dash top.
Originally supplied with 2-tone paintwork in Shell Grey and Black the car was resprayed around 20 years ago in single colour Georgian Silver. It retains its original blue hide upholstery and carpets. This car warrants close inspection. These cars are seldom offered at auction and it is believed there are only nine in Australia.
This was the 5th last car built, completely original and has full matching numbers. The original registration number was NW 44.
CHASSIS NO: BC96XE
ENGINE NO: 48EBC
REGISTRATION NO: SPUR (EXPIRES 2/2011)