1960 Bentley S2 Continental: The symbol of status

1960 Bentley S2 Continental: The symbol of status

Engine V8 Horsepower 185 BHP (147.2 KW)Engine Location Front Drive Type RWD Transmission 4-speed automatic

The powerful engine, luxurious amenities, and sleek design made the Continental a popular choice among wealthy individuals striving to emphasize their social status. A more streamlined body and a shorter wheelbase were the distinctive features of the “Continental” styling of the famous S2 series popular in the 60s.

Source: Bonhams

Produced from 1959 to 1962 by Bentley, Continental was considered a remarkable vehicle for its time, featuring a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine and a top speed of over 120 mph. It was also known for its high level of craftsmanship and luxury features, making it a popular choice among the rich and famous. The 4-door Continental version was equipped with more luxurious amenities, making it a more prestigious and refined vehicle compared with the basic S2 sedan. It featured a more streamlined design, with the six side windows giving it a more distinctive look. 

The origins

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The S2 Continental was part of the Bentley “S” series, which was produced from 1955 to 1965. This luxury grand tourer was known for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and powerful engine. The model was the first Bentley to feature the new 6.2-liter V8 engine, which produced more power and better fuel efficiency than the previous inline-six engine used in the S1. It featured a new, more aerodynamic body style, which helped to improve performance and fuel economy. Bentley cars had always been known for their performance and sporty handling, in contrast to Rolls-Royce which had been traditionally associated with luxury and refinement. While both brands were owned by the same company, Rolls-Royce Motors Ltd, Bentley vehicles were positioned as more driver-focused automobiles, while Rolls-Royce models were considered more stately and luxurious. Bentleys were also more expensive than Rolls-Royce vehicles and were typically purchased by wealthy individuals who wanted a car that could be driven fast and hard, while Rolls-Royce owners strived for luxury and long-distance comfortable travel with a driver.

The 1960 model year

Source: H&H Classics

The 1960 model year featured similar specifications to the previous year, with the most notable difference being the engine’s compression ratio which was increased to 8.5:1. The S2 Continental was known for its high level of craftsmanship and luxury features, making it a popular choice among the wealthy and famous. Introduced in 1959 the automobile was a more exclusive and luxurious version of the standard S2 sedan, so a comparison of the technical specifications between the 1959 model year and the 1960 model year did not reveal any significant differences. It featured a more streamlined body design, with six side windows, and a longer wheelbase. The S2 Continental was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, which produced approximately 185 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the interior of this glorious automobile was designed to provide the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The seats were upholstered in high-quality leather, and the dashboard and door panels were also trimmed in leather. The vehicle featured a spacious and well-appointed cabin, with plenty of room for four or five passengers. The seats were comfortable and supportive, and the vehicle was equipped with a variety of luxury amenities such as power windows, power steering, and air conditioning. The interior featured wood veneers, such as burr walnut or bird’s-eye maple, adding to the luxurious feel of the automobile. The automobile also had a variety of gauges and controls, including a speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge, that was placed in an easy-to-read and reach position.

Did you know?

Source: PostWarClassic

The 1960 release was a popular choice among wealthy and influential businesspeople and celebrities of the time. Some famous owners of the 1960 release include King Hussain of Jordan, King Baudouin of Belgium, and King Olav V of Norway. Other notable owners include British businessman and politician, Lord Rootes, and American actor, Tony Curtis.

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1960 Bentley S2 Continental: The symbol of status

Engine V8 Horsepower 185 BHP (147.2 KW)Engine Location Front Drive Type RWD Transmission 4-speed automatic

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