Chassis BC28LCZ

• Desirable left-hand-drive Park Ward Drophead Coupe
• Finished in elegant gray metallic over rich red leather with matching red convertible top
• Extensively refurbished under previous stewardship with comprehensive attention to the drivetrain, suspension, steering, cooling, and climate-control systems
• Long-term ownership following the extensive refurbishment, with careful ongoing maintenance and preservation

Few postwar automobiles combine elegance, exclusivity, and effortless performance quite like the Bentley S2 Continental. Produced in limited numbers and reserved for Bentley's most discerning clientele, the Continental represented the pinnacle of British grand touring. Beneath its graceful coachwork lay Bentley's new all-aluminum 6.2-liter V8, an engine whose abundant torque and remarkable refinement transformed the S2 into one of the world's most capable high-speed touring automobiles. Hand-built, expensive, and exceptionally exclusive, the Continental was intended for owners who demanded the finest motorcar available, regardless of cost.

Among the most desirable variants was the Park Ward Drophead Coupe, whose clean lines and restrained elegance perfectly complemented Bentley's grand touring character. Unlike many open luxury automobiles of the era, the Park Ward-bodied Continental possessed a sporting presence without sacrificing dignity or refinement. The result was a motorcar equally at home arriving at a country estate, navigating city traffic, or covering vast distances across the continent at speed.

Offered here is chassis BC28LCZ, a left-hand-drive 1962 Bentley S2 Continental Drophead Coupe originally delivered to Mrs. Ruth Greenewald of Palm Springs, California. The Bentley later passed through the hands of respected Florida collector Edward Mestre, who acquired the car from the noted New York dealership Carriage House in 1980. Following Mestre's passing in 1990, the car was purchased by his longtime mechanic, Victor Wilbur.

In 2000, the Bentley was acquired by Houston enthusiast John Sweeney, whose stewardship would prove transformative. What began as routine maintenance soon evolved into a comprehensive program of mechanical and cosmetic improvement guided by a philosophy familiar to many dedicated collectors: if one component required attention, every related system deserved the same level of care. Rather than performing isolated repairs, Sweeney systematically addressed the car as a whole, creating an exceptionally well-sorted Continental capable of delivering the effortless touring experience for which these cars are renowned.

Over the course of his ownership, the Bentley benefited from extensive attention throughout. Newly manufactured SU carburetors supplied by Burlen Fuel Systems and produced from the original Skinners Union tooling were installed, while the transmission, differential, brake servo, suspension, steering system, and numerous chassis components were comprehensively refurbished. The cooling and climate-control systems received equal attention, including a re-cored radiator, replacement air-conditioning condenser, upgraded evaporator assembly, and auxiliary cooling fan. The result was a Bentley engineered to deliver the smoothness, comfort, and reliability expected of one of Crewe's finest grand touring automobiles.

The convertible top assembly was similarly renewed with a newly fabricated wooden frame, a new canvas top, replacement headliner, renewed seals, restoration of the top storage compartment, fuel tank servicing, and associated body and structural work. Throughout the process, the emphasis remained on thoroughness and long-term reliability rather than expediency. Following completion of this extensive work, Sweeney sold the Bentley in 2003 to its subsequent owner, whose long-term stewardship it has been carefully maintained and preserved.

Today, the Bentley presents beautifully in gray metallic over rich red leather upholstery, complemented by a matching red convertible top. The color combination suits the Park Ward coachwork exceptionally well, highlighting its elegant proportions while lending the car a subtle sporting character. The leather remains fresh and supple throughout, creating a warm and inviting cabin befitting one of Crewe's finest creations.

Equally important, this S2 Continental remains every bit the grand touring motorcar it was intended to be. The powerful V8 delivers effortless performance, while decades of thoughtful mechanical attention have resulted in a Bentley that feels exceptionally well sorted and confidence inspiring on the road. Elegant, highly usable, and benefiting from years of conscientious stewardship, BC28LCZ is a wonderful expression of Bentley's coachbuilt era and a highly desirable example of the celebrated Park Ward Drophead Coupe.

Offers welcome and trades considered. 

$229,500

Stock number 8118