Fantasy Junction

Description

1963 Bentley Continental S3 Mulliner Park Ward Convertible
s/n BC96XA Eng. no. 48ABC
Balmoral Green with Tan Leather Interior

As the last model before in the introduction of the monocoque cars, the series three version of the Bentley S models is truly the last of the coachbuilt cars. Though most of them featured the standard steel saloon bodies, a few were built with Mulliner Park Ward Continental bodywork. Thanks to their well-proportioned and comparatively modern bodies, and motivated by the recently introduced aluminum 6.2 litre V8, these cars were meant for owner-drivers, and not the more insular owners of the Rolls-Royce cousins who were used to being driven instead.

This car is one of a very small number of Drophead S3 Continentals and is a right hand drive example originally supplied by Jack Barclay Limited. In the late 1980s, the car was restored in a no expense spared fashion by Chelsea Workshop in London, and remains a beautiful and stunning example in balmoral green. The paintwork was applied to very high standards over straight panels displaying excellent fit. There are few blemishes to speak of, with just a few located at the rear of the right door. The chrome is also extremely nice, with very light wear only. The trim, lights, and lenses are excellent and present, including the Lucas `flamethrower` accessory fog lamps. The glass is excellent and the top fits well and remains in good condition.

The interior is also extremely nice, with high quality leather upholstery with just the right amount of patina. The wood is excellent throughout, with only one crack noted, and excellent luster. The various switches and trim are present and in excellent order, and the carpets are in good condition. The rear seats are spacious enough to allow full-sized adults to use them, and five seat belts have been fitted.

The trunk and engine compartment are both tidy and presentable, but not detailed for show. A ten-disc Sony CD changer has been installed in the trunk, and a full set of lambswool overmats is also included. The charging system has been upgraded to an alternator system, while the air conditioner compressor has been upgraded to a modern unit providing better performance. The underside is quite solid and tidy, and appears to be rust free. There is one 4-inch by 6-inch patch below the left side of the rear seat. The car functions as it should, providing a stately and enjoyable driving experience.

This is an extremely rare opportunity to acquire a rare open example of the last genuinely coach built Bentleys. Astronomically expensive when new, very few drophead Continentals were sold, and even fewer have survived, making these cars undervalued today, especially considering their uniqueness. This car, with its thoughtful functional upgrades and sparkling restoration, is an ideal example to enjoy elegant open air motoring with three friends or the family.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608