Bentley – Vintage Car Collector

1963 Bentley S3: A Masterpiece of British Craftsmanship and Timeless Luxury

Posted on January 9, 2025January 9, 2025 by Library VCC

Imagine stepping into the world of the 1960s, where elegance and sophistication defined every aspect of life. The 1963 Bentley S3 emerges as the ultimate luxury saloon, effortlessly blending timeless design with cutting-edge engineering. As its smooth V8 engine hums quietly, the handcrafted interior wraps you in an atmosphere of opulence, making every journey feel extraordinary. More than just a car, the Bentley S3 symbolized exclusivity and prestige, capturing the essence of British craftsmanship at its finest.

Source: Topspeed

The 1963 Bentley S3 was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering a smooth, refined, and effortless driving experience. This luxury saloon featured rear-wheel drive (RWD) and weighed approximately 4,300 lbs (1,950 kg), striking a balance between robust performance and supreme comfort. Known for its graceful design, spacious interior, and meticulous craftsmanship, the S3 represented the pinnacle of British automotive luxury in the early 1960s, catering to an elite clientele who demanded nothing but the best.

The Origins

Source: Gullwing Motor Cars

The Bentley S3 traces its lineage back to the Bentley S1, introduced in 1955, which marked the transition from straight-six engines to more powerful V8s. By the time the S3 debuted in 1962, Bentley had established itself as a leader in luxury and performance, catering to an elite clientele that included royalty, celebrities, and business magnates.

The S3 represented an evolution of its predecessor, the S2, incorporating subtle yet significant design changes. These included quad headlamps, which gave the car a modern and distinctive look, and a lowered bonnet for improved visibility. Inside, Bentley maintained its tradition of hand-crafted excellence, with polished walnut veneers, premium leather upholstery, and meticulous attention to detail.

The S3 was a symbol of prosperity and refinement, embodying the best of British craftsmanship and engineering. It was tailored for a discerning clientele who demanded comfort, exclusivity, and timeless style.

The 1963 Model Year

Source: Wheelz

The 1963 Bentley S3 stood out as a remarkable model year, showcasing refinements that further elevated its appeal. The S3 retained the 6.2-liter V8 engine, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery. This engine was developed in collaboration with Rolls-Royce and became a hallmark of Bentley’s commitment to performance and luxury.

In terms of design, the S3 featured Bentley’s iconic flowing lines, accentuated by its dual headlamp clusters and elegant proportions. The interior offered a serene environment, with innovations like electric windows and improved air conditioning, ensuring passenger comfort. The ride quality was enhanced by advanced suspension systems, making the S3 ideal for long-distance touring.

Production of the Bentley S3 was exclusive, with only 1,286 units built between 1962 and 1965, including both standard saloons and bespoke coachbuilt versions, which were customized to the exact specifications of their owners. This rarity has made the 1963 Bentley S3 a highly coveted classic car among collectors.

Did You Know?

Source: Classic Promenade

Quad Headlamp Debut: The S3 was the first Bentley to feature quad headlamps, a design element that became a signature of the brand.
Hand-Built Excellence: Each Bentley S3 was meticulously hand-assembled, taking hundreds of hours to complete, ensuring unrivaled quality and attention to detail.
Royal Connection: The S3 was a favorite among royalty and heads of state, further cementing its status as a symbol of exclusivity.
Coachbuilt Variants: Many S3s were sent to coachbuilders like Mulliner Park Ward, resulting in unique, one-of-a-kind designs that are now highly prized.
Performance and Comfort: Despite its luxury focus, the S3 could reach a top speed of approximately 115 mph, showcasing Bentley’s dedication to combining performance with refinement.

1961 Bentley S2 Continental: Reviving the Glory Days

Posted on July 28, 2023July 28, 2023 by Library VCC

The Bentley Continental S2 was a car that embodied luxury and performance during its time and still holds a special place among classic car enthusiasts. Its design, a blend of elegance and sleekness, and its powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine made it a symbol of sophistication and class.

Source: Inventory

What made the Bentley Continental S2 special was its smooth and elegant appearance, which made people admire it and imagine owning one. It wasn’t just a regular car; it represented the driver’s unique preferences and personality. All in all, the Bentley Continental S2 was an outstanding work of art in the car world, and its ageless beauty and exceptional performance have made it a legendary car in the industry.

The origins

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The Bentley Continental S2 was introduced in 1959 as the successor to the S1 model. The automobile was designed by J.P. Blatchley and produced by the luxury brand until 1962. It was one of the most sophisticated and powerful vehicles of its time, featuring a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced 170 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The model was available in both two-door and four-door versions, and customers could choose between standard and long-wheelbase versions. Built on a steel monocoque chassis it featured an independent suspension system and hydraulic brakes. In 1960, coachbuilder James Young produced four two-door saloon versions of the Continental S2, which, naturally, are highly sought-after by collectors today. These automobiles featured unique bodywork and luxurious interiors that added to the already impressive package of the model. In 1962, the legendary model was replaced by the S3, which featured minor design changes and improvements to the engine and suspension system. No wonder, the S2 remains a beloved classic today, known for its timeless beauty and exceptional performance. This outstanding and elegant automobile became a significant part of the brand’s history, representing the pinnacle of luxury and performance during the late 1950s and early 1960s. It continues to be a highly respected and sought-after classic among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The 1961 model year

Source: The Driven

The 1961version featured a 6.2-liter V8 engine that produced 170 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. It was built on a steel monocoque chassis with an independent suspension system and hydraulic brakes. One of the distinguishing features of the 1961 edition was the introduction of power-assisted steering as standard equipment, making the automobile even more effortless to drive. The vehicle was available in both two-door and four-door versions, with the two-door saloon built by James Young being particularly rare and desirable. The interior of the 1961 release was a work of art, featuring luxurious leather upholstery, deep-pile carpets, and a wood-trimmed dashboard. The vehicle was also equipped with a radio, clock, and electric windows as standard, adding to the comfort and convenience of the vehicle. Compared to previous model years, the 1961 edition saw some minor design changes, including revised front and rear styling and a slightly larger front grille. It received a longer wheelbase than the previous version, which improved ride quality and handling. Overall, the 1961 model was a remarkable classic, showcasing the finest in luxury and performance. With its powerful engine, smooth transmission, and advanced features, it remains a coveted and sought-after vehicle by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its refined and luxurious interior, along with its subtle design changes, set it apart from previous versions and ensured its place in automotive history.

Did you know?

Source: Sunday Times Driving

Lunaz, a specialist company in classic car electrification based in Silverstone, recently revealed the “most unique classic car to undergo a complete electric conversion”. The project involved a 1961 Bentley Continental S2, specifically one of four two-door S2 saloons created by James Young coachbuilder. Instead of the original 6.2-liter V8 engine, the car now runs on a 400-horsepower electric motor and high-voltage battery.

1962 Bentley S2 Continental: A Symbol of British Excellence

Posted on April 3, 2023April 3, 2023 by Library VCC

The Bentley S2 Continental was not merely an automobile, but a masterpiece of engineering, design, and craftsmanship. It became a symbol of luxury and elegance, a vehicle that exuded class and sophistication.

Source: Classic Digest

The S2 Continental was a masterpiece of design, with its streamlined and classic appearance that endured over time. The vehicle’s lengthy front, low stance, and graceful curves provided it with a sense of refinement and gracefulness that is still unmatched. Moreover, this remarkable classic vehicle was adored by car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its ageless design, extraordinary performance, and unparalleled luxury solidified its position in the annals of automotive history as one of the most outstanding automobiles ever created.

The origins

Source: Hagerty

The luxurious Bentley S2 Continental was produced by the legendary British automaker from 1959 to 1962. The creation of this model involved several key individuals and events that shaped its history. The design of this beauty was overseen by J.P. Blatchley, who was the chief designer at Bentley at the time. Blatchley drew inspiration from the S1 Continental but made significant changes to the bodywork to create a more modern and streamlined look. The result was a car that was both elegant and powerful. The automobile receive a powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine that was capable of producing 200 horsepower. This engine was developed by Rolls-Royce, which owned Bentley at the time, becoming a significant improvement over the engine used in the previous version. Production of the automobile began in 1959 and lasted until 1962 during which a total of 388 automobiles left the plant. The vast majority of these were built in the coachbuilding workshops of H.J. Mulliner, a well-known coachbuilder that had a long history of working with Bentley. The Bentley S2 Continental quickly became a favorite among the world’s elite. Notable owners included King Baudouin of Belgium, the Shah of Iran, and actress Elizabeth Taylor. Each owner customized their car to suit their tastes, resulting in a wide variety of unique and highly personalized vehicles. Today, the model is considered one of the most iconic luxury cars of the 1960s. Its sleek design, powerful engine, and luxurious interior continue to capture the imagination of enthusiasts around the world. The car’s legacy is a testament to the skill and dedication of the many individuals who played a role in its creation.

The 1962 model year

Source: Inventory

1962 marked the end of an era for the British luxury automobile. This model year was the last to be produced, and it represented the pinnacle of Bentley’s engineering and design prowess. Under the hood, the 1962 version was powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine that was capable of producing 200 horsepower. This engine was coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission that provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience. In addition to its powerful engine, the 1962 release boasted several other technical features that set it apart from its predecessors. For example, it was equipped with a servo-assisted braking system that provided excellent stopping power, even at high speeds. It also featured a self-leveling suspension system that ensured a smooth ride, no matter what the road conditions were like. The interior of the final version was a masterpiece of luxury and craftsmanship. The seats were upholstered in high-quality leather and featured intricate stitching and detailing. The dashboard and door panels were made of rich wood veneers, and the automobile was equipped with all of the latest amenities, including a radio, air conditioning, and power windows. The 1962 model of the vehicle was notable for its spaciousness, as it was designed to provide ample room for both passengers and the driver. This made it a popular choice for those who valued both comfort and style. Although the 1962 Bentley S2 Continental shared many technical and design features with its predecessors, there were some notable differences. For instance, a new radiator design was introduced that gave the car a more streamlined and modern appearance. Additionally, the bodywork was updated with more refined lines and a sleeker profile. Another notable difference between the 1962 release and the previous version was its handling. The 1962 edition was more responsive and nimble than earlier versions, making it easier to drive and maneuver in tight spaces.

Did you know?

Source: Bonhams

The 1962 edition was equipped with a specialized air conditioning system that utilized an evaporator unit mounted beneath the dashboard. This system was one of the first of its kind and was praised for its ability to maintain a consistent temperature within the cabin, even in hot and humid climates. The system was so effective that it was later adopted by other luxury automakers and became a standard feature in many high-end vehicles.

1960 Bentley S2 Continental: The symbol of status

Posted on March 20, 2023March 20, 2023 by Library VCC

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

Source: Pinterest

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.

1959 Bentley S2 Continental: Flying Spur

Posted on November 5, 2022November 5, 2022 by Library VCC

Bentley’s engineers managed to combine beautiful design, effortless dynamics, and unrivaled modern technology to create a dynamic and sophisticated four-door sports sedan with sculpted rear fenders and attractive body lines, called S2 Continental. It was so fast that it received the nickname “Flying Spur”.

Source: Bentley Media

British high-class vehicles always combined luxury, aristocratic style, and excellent performance. Most recently (2019), one such British brand, Bentley, celebrated its 100th anniversary, a milestone that few automakers managed to achieve. In addition, to the centenary, the company celebrated the 60th anniversary of one of its iconic models, the S2 Continental “Flying Spur”. Introduced in 1959, the 4-door version of the Continental was an elegant sedan with six side windows where the resemblance to the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II was minimal compared to the basic S2 sedans.

The origins

Source: Pinterest

Like almost all British automakers, Bentley was engaged in military equipment production during World War II. Civilian automobile production resumed in the post-war period, and the company removed its factory from Derby to Crewe. The company introduced its first post-war model in 1952 and it was the R-Type Continental, which was released for three years, from June 1952 to April 1955. Later, the Continental S1 (1955–1959), S2 (1959–1962), and S3 (1962–1965) followed. The S series, particularly the S1 one, was very well received. Starting in July 1959, the new S2 series debuted equipped with their famous V8 engine and included previously optional specifications like air conditioning and power steering systems.

The 1959 model year

Source: Tom Harley Jnr

For 1959, the company chose a new and incredibly powerful aluminum V8 engine – a Rolls-Royce-designed 6230cc all-aluminum overhead valve powertrain with a single camshaft and twin SU carburetors. As most British automakers preferred, Bentley also traditionally indicated its models’ power as “sufficient”. However, taking into account its maximum speed of 180 km/h, the power of the automobile was estimated at a minimum of 200 hp. In addition, the vehicle was equipped with a standard Hydramatic automatic transmission, power steering, electric damper control, a revised instrument panel, air conditioning, and power windows. It also featured modified rear axle gear ratios and enhanced hydraulic brakes. Most Crew-produced S2s from 1959-1962 were factory sedans, except for 15 convertibles from Mulliner and 5 sedans from James Young. There were also more expensive and prestigious vehicles: 388 automobiles with aluminum bodies from Mulliner Park Ward or James Young. In 1959 the 4-door version of the Continental was an elegant “Flying Spur” sedan with six side windows. The increased performance of the 6.2-liter L-series engine significantly improved the performance receiving several advanced and high-end solutions for its time. The elegant body, created by H.J. Mulliner was powered by a lightweight aluminum V8 engine that replaced the 6-cylinder SI unit of the 1920s. The revolutionary L-series engine proved to be incredibly popular. It made this luxury vehicle’s ride smooth and comfortable, turning the car of the British manufacturer into a perfect Gran Turismo. Moreover, its modified version was installed on the current Bentley Mulsanne. The standard equipment of the model included power steering, electronic suspension adjustment, and an automatic transmission. The improved power unit allowed the use of a much more advanced air conditioning system, which had no analogs on the market in 1959. The exclusivity of the model was emphasized by a new design of the front panel and an improved steering wheel. From 1959 to 1962, more than 1900 S2 cars were produced.

Did you know?

Source: Auto Vercity

One of the first Bentley S2s was created by special order for the 35th US President John F. Kennedy’s family. The names of the first owners were even engraved on a plate inside the vehicle. After many years, it ended up in Odessa. The current owner invested $25,000 in its restoration. At the moment, its cost is $150 000.

1993 Bentley Continental R: Real man’s automobile

Posted on October 27, 2022October 27, 2022 by Library VCC

It was a real man’s automobile – powerful and masculine, a real classic of the 90s. At the time of its introduction, the Bentley Continental R was the most expensive production automobile in the world. With its expressive design and powerful turbocharged engine, this two-door coupe redefined the Gran Turismo of the 1990s.

Source: Carriage House Motor Cars

Bentley was and is a story of gentlemen’s status, elitism, and style: аutomobiles from Crewe had always been a privilege for the elite. However, for a couple of decades, the sky over the brand was overcast. The proud British company became a hostage, to a symbiosis with Rolls-Royce that somehow took away the brand’s identity. However, the financial collapse of Rolls-Royce Limited was so loud that in 1971 the co-production was nationalized by the British government. After the acquisition of the brand by Vickers in 1980, the company’s business went up, but weakly. For example, the Continental R sold a couple of hundred units a year. However, this model was the first body that was not similar to the Rolls-Royce model since 1965. The fastest, most expensive, and most powerful vehicle of the British automaker became the benchmark of style and luxury of its time.

The origins

Source: AutoEvolution

Traditionally, Aston Martin and Jaguar were the British brands responsible for the production of GT vehicles in Britain. However, in 1991, Bentley also entered this segment of the market with its new Continental R model. It all started with the Project 90 coupe concept presented at the 1984 Geneva Motor Show, which took 7 years to finalize. The result was a modern interpretation of the R-Type Continental fastback from the 1950s to the brand’s lineup – a powerful and fast 2-door automobile of the highest price category. For the first time in 30 years, Bentley launched its model, which had no analog under the Rolls-Royce brand. In addition, in 1991, Bentley’s new darling topped the list of the most expensive production vehicles in the world: it cost £178,000. The automobile shared a common platform with other models with a reduced wheelbase to 3061 mm, self-leveling hydraulic suspension, and front-ventilated disc brakes. Under the hood was a proven Bentley Turbo R 16-valve 6750cc V8 engine with Garrett turbocharging and MK-Motronic electronic fuel injection. The company did not officially report the power and torque indicators, but experts estimated them at 325 hp and 610 Nm, respectively. The prototype Bentley Continental R was shown at the 1991 Geneva Motor Show, where it was immediately bought by the Sultan of Brunei. The design of the automobile indicated thematic similarities to the Mulsanne and Turbo sedans, but with some hint of aerodynamics. The coupé’s main features were curved fender lines, a lower roofline, vertical taillights, and long, horizontal front turn signals. The model was in production until 2002 and produced 1289 automobiles, including limited editions of the Continental S, California Edition, and Millennium Edition. In 2000-2003 the company also built 38 Continental R420s and 46 Continental R Le Mans, all with 420 hp engines.

The 1993 model year

Source: Historics Auctioneers

Since its launch in 1991, the 6.75l turbocharged V8 Garrett engine from the Turbo R was picked for Continental R. Early vehicles (from 1991 to 1993 included) had an estimated power of 325 hp (242 kW; 330 hp) at 4000 RPM and maximum torque of 610 N⋅m (450 lb-ft) at 2000 rpm, as the company, like Rolls-Royce, didn’t disclose the real metrics for their products preferring to describe power output simply as “sufficient”. The car used a new 4-speed GM 4L80-E automatic transmission that was extensively tested by Rolls Royce over 1,609,344 km (1,000,000 miles), and modified by them to provide a very high level of detail. The car featured self-leveling hydraulic suspension (with adaptive travel/automatic travel) and ventilated disc brakes at the front with dual calipers. The engine was controlled by MK-Motronic digital fuel injection with a fully tuned ignition control system. At launch, the claimed top speed was 233 km/h (145 mph) and the 0-97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time was 6.6 seconds. All cars featured an electronic transmission selector mounted on the center console (the first time Rolls Royce had made a car without an automatic transmission selector on the steering column), as well as a Sport button to simultaneously adjust the transmission layout and stiffen the suspension for more aggressive driving and handling.

Did you know?

Source: Charles Crail

The 1993 edition appeared in L.A. Law (1986-1994), Fled (1996), Dead to Me (2019-2022), and many more.

1993 Bentley Continental R: The crowning achievement of the British automaker

Posted on July 10, 2022July 12, 2022 by Library VCC

Body styled from a non-Rolls-Royce model, the Bentley Continental R model fully changed the perception of the Gran Turismo cars of the 1990s with its expressive design and a powerful turbocharged engine.

Source: Charles Crail

The luxurious Continental R coupe was the crowning achievement of the British manufacturer from 1991 to 2003 and the first to use the GM 4L80-E gearbox. The Continental R was the fastest, most expensive, and most powerful Bentley of its time. At the time of its introduction, Continental R was the most expensive production vehicle in the world.

Bentley’s revival

In the 80s, the brand lived through its hard times. Over the past 15 years, the brand had not been able to achieve proper recognition, let alone have successful sales outside the UK, in important markets such as the US. However, the managing director of Rolls Royce Motor Cars in the early 80s, David Plastow, still saw the potential of the brand. So, it was decided to give it a chance to shine, and the first step in reshaping the brand was the introduction of the standard 4-door turbocharged sedan, the Mulsanne Turbo model.

Source: Classic and Sports car

However, the company did not stop there: so it was decided to further strengthen the sporty character of the brand and move away from the image of Rolls Royce. For this, John Heffernan and Ken Greenlee were appointed designers for the new concept. In 1985, a fiberglass mock-up of a new concept car was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show as the Rolls-Royce “Project 90” concept of the future Bentley. The concept was greeted with enthusiasm, but it was shelved as the company began working on a replacement for the Rolls-Royce Corniche. During this process, Rolls Royce chief designer Graham Hull suggested to the board of directors to use Corniche designs for the new coupe. From that moment it was decided to direct all efforts to the creation of a new Bentley. In 1986, Graham Hull presented a design rendering of the new coupe that became the Continental R. The model’s grand launch was held at the 1991 Geneva Motor Show and had tremendous success. It was Bentley’s first non-Rolls-Royce design presented to the public in Geneva.

1993 model year

For the first generation Continental R, the 6.75L Garrett was chosen – powered by a turbocharged V8 from the Turbo R. In 1993 models, power was 325 hp. (242 kW; 330 hp). 4,000 rpm and 610 N⋅m (450 lb-ft) maximum torque at 2,000 rpm were available, although this was always estimated as Rolls-Royce still had a policy at the time not to provide official data, preferring to describe output power simply as “enough”. The model used a new 4-speed GM 4L80-E automatic transmission which had been extensively tested by Rolls Royce over 1,609,344 km (1,000,000 miles) and modified by them to a very high level of excellence. The machine featured self-leveling hydraulic suspension (with adaptive steering/automatic ride control) and ventilated disc brakes at the front with two calipers. The engine was controlled by MK-Motronic digital fuel injection with a fully tuned ignition control system. At launch, the claimed top speed was 233 km/h (145 mph) and the 0-97 km/h (60 mph) acceleration time was 6.6 seconds. The 1993 Continental R cost around £180,000 in the UK at launch.

Source: Classic and Sports Car

All vehicles featured an electronic transmission selector mounted on the center console (the first time Rolls Royce had made a machine without an automatic transmission selector on the steering column), as well as a Sport button to simultaneously adjust the transmission layout and stiffen the suspension for more aggressive driving. Road testers and journalists have repeatedly noted that the Continental R, for such a large and heavy car, demonstrates excellent handling characteristics at high speeds.

Did you know?

The completed pre-production Continental R (designed under the codename “Nepal”) was secretly flown to Switzerland for the model’s grand launch at the 1991 Geneva Motor Show. The musical accompaniment for the launch of the model was also not chosen by chance: Zadok the Priest – an anthem written by Handel on the occasion of the coronation of the English King George II created a solemn and grandiose image for the car. The show shocked the Sultan of Brunei so much that he bought the show car at the event for over £2 million. The highlight of the Mercedes-Benz W140, also on display at the show, was completely overshadowed by the bright red, new Bentley Coupé due to a largely positive public reception.

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