Vehicle Description
In the spring of 1955, Rolls-Royce and Bentley announced the
arrival of a new range of two virtually identical models
respectively known as the Silver Cloud and S-Series (also referred
to as S-Type or later, S1). The new models culminated the efforts
to standardize the line that began with the Silver Dawn and R-Type.
"Standard Steel Saloon" was now firmly entrenched in regular
Rolls-Royce parlance, with the factory and clients now used to the
idea of full, factory-built cars. In terms of styling and
mechanical makeup, the standard saloons of Bentley and Rolls-Royce
were virtually identical, with only subtle detail differences
between the two. Power came from a 4.9-liter inline-six derived
from the high-performance R-Type Continental. Given the success of
that car, management decided that a hotter version of the new
chassis should join the new range, and development began in
earnest. Given Bentley's sporting history, the new high-performance
variant would be a Bentley-only offering, bearing the famous
Continental name. Plans called for the Continental to be sold
ex-works as a chassis only, with three official catalog body styles
available. Standard bodies included a two-door saloon by H.J.
Mulliner and a Park Ward two-door saloon with corresponding
drophead coupe. In 1957, one of the most important developments of
the Continental series arrived with the introduction of a four-door
sports saloon, courtesy of the drawing boards of H.J. Mulliner.
Officially known as Design 7443, its more evocativeFlying
Spurmoniker drew from the family crest of Mulliner's Managing
Director Harry Johnstone. Initially, Johnstone was met with
resistance from Crewe to approve the design, as they considered the
Continental chassis to be the reserve of sporting two-door coupes
and dropheads. But Mulliner saw potential in a taut and sporty
saloon, and buyers agreed, snapping up 54 standard cars on the S1
platform, and many more on later series. Subtle variants of the
Flying Spur were also available, including Style 7443/B known as
the "four-light" Spur. The four-light model's blind quarters
transformed its character with a more aggressive and purposeful
appearance. There were no mechanical changes, yet enthusiasts
recognize the four-light sports saloon as one of the most desirable
and significant designs in Bentley's post-war history, with just
fourteen of these special S1 Continental Flying Spurs produced in
total. Offered here is chassis number BC41LFM, one of only three
left-hand drive, four-light S1 Continental Flying Spurs
constructed. According to records provided by the Rolls-Royce
Foundation, this car left England aboard the S.S. Andria, arriving
in the United States in March 1959 in time for display at the New
York Auto Show. After the show, the famous dealer J.S. Inskip
delivered the car to its first owner, Mr. Vincent Shea of
Manhattan, a regular Rolls-Royce and Bentley customer. The
hand-written build sheet describes the unique specification,
including a radio with power aerial, under-bonnet horns,
power-assisted steering, Dunlop white-wall tyres, and even such
minutia as coachwork instructions, a tin of polish, and the cheeky
"anti-hobo door locks" in what is perhaps a playful jab at the
car's intended home of New York City. The Schoellkopf card lists
just three subsequent owners through 1986. In recent years, the
Bentley made its way overseas, and in approximately 2011 it
received an extensive mechanical overhaul by marque specialists
Padgett Motor Engineers in England. It returned to the 'States
shortly thereafter and has since enjoyed a life of regular use and
care. Today, this elegant Flying Spur presents in a gorgeous dark
blue livery with understated tan coach stripes to complement the
hides. It wears an older but high-quality restoration that has
matured gracefully over time. The blue paintwork is glossy and
smooth, and the color a perfect match for the coachwork, which
displays crisp feature lines and tight, consistent panel gaps. Some
minor imperfections are evident in the finish, yet only on close
inspection. The doors shut with a satisfying click that reflects
the superb quality of the original body. Chrome and brightwork are
excellent, including the bumpers and proper wheel covers with
color-keyed inserts. The luxurious cabin features swaths of tan
Connolly hides in excellent condition. The seats are nicely worn
in, showing a charming character to the leather that comes from
years of regular use. The woodwork on the dash and door caps is
stunning, with inlaid banding and a deep, glossy lacquer finish.
Original switchgear and controls are excellent, and the original
Smiths His Master's Voice radio sits in the dash - although an
aftermarket AM/FM/CD player is discreetly mounted below.
Unobtrusive three-point inertia-reel seat belts are fitted in the
interest of modern safety. Build sheets confirm BC41LFM retains its
original engine, which presents with an honest and tidy character
under the bonnet. The 2011 mechanical overhaul by Padgett Motor
Engineers included overhauled suspension and braking systems,
cooling system overhaul, and new exhaust silencer, while the
gearbox, fuel system, ignition, and electrics also received expert
attention. The current owner acquired the car following the work
and has since carefully maintained it in top order. At the time of
writing, the car feels "on the button" and superbly prepared. This
stunning Bentley ticks all the right boxes for the
Rolls-Royce/Bentley enthusiast and collector. Combining rarity,
beauty, and impressive performance, it is a well-sorted and
tour-ready motorcar that practically begs to embark on a
cross-continental journey. Offers welcome and trades considered For
additional details please view this listing directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6522-1959-bentley-s1-continental-saloon/