Description
The term ‘Bentley Continental’ refers to several models produced by Bentley Motors. Originally, it described a special chassis designed for more powerful engines than the standard offerings, provided to select coachbuilders for fitting lightweight coachwork under Rolls-Royce supervision. A high-performance S Continental (chassis only) was introduced six months after the S1, featuring lightweight fixed-head and drophead coupé bodies available by special order from H. J. Mulliner & Co., Park Ward, James Young, and Freestone & Webb at a premium of about 50%.
This particular 1956 Bentley Continental, featuring a Park Ward body and chassis number BC76AF was the 74th S1 Continental Built. The first owner was Philip William Bryce Lever, 3rd Viscount Leverhulme, (1915-2000). Living at Thornton Manor for 50 years, he was a significant local employer and many Wirral residents enjoyed his hospitality at various events as a result of his association with Clatterbridge Hospital League of Friends, the local Chambers of Commerce, the local Rotary Club and the British Legion, and countless other clubs and societies. Philip also developed a national reputation as a racehorse owner and breeder. He served for many years as Senior Steward of the UK Jockey Club and Chairman of Chester Racecourse.
The car was converted to LHD in the US and later restored and sold by Frank Dale & Stepson in the mid 2000’s and supplied to a German client. Since 2010, it has been part of an exceptional collection of cars, maintained by Finest Sports & Historic Cars in Lingen, northern Germany. Permanently registered and regularly driven, this Bentley Continental receives top-tier maintenance, ensuring its excellent condition and performance.
It stands as one of the most desirable collector cars of all time.
