The Model

The term “Continental” denoted a higher-performance, more exclusive Bentley, originally inspired by the R-Type Continental of the 1950s. These cars were lighter, faster, and designed for long-distance touring across the European continent. As a result, the S3 Continental combined luxury and performance in a way few other cars of the era could.

The defining aesthetic feature of the 1963 Bentley S3 Continental Drophead Coupe by Mulliner Park Ward is its unique quad headlight configuration, often referred to colloquially as “Chinese Eye” lights. This bold styling choice divided opinion at the time but has since come to define the model’s identity.

Incredibly only 27 RHD Drop Heads were built by Mulliner Park Ward between 1962 and 1966, so a super rare commodity of what was and remains still a super elite motor car.

This Cars History

The file copy of the originally factory specification happily informs us that Jack Barclay Ltd had ordered chassis no. 'BC110XC' in January 1964 on behalf of Sir Ralph Rayner who led an extraordinary life, having served in both the first and second world wars, he was amongst the first into Hitlers bunker and was gifted Hitlers phone as a souvenier. Notes on file inform us that he chosen colour was dark grey with green leather and had a rather snazzy electric roof along with manual operated windows & aerial, tubeless tyres and a badge bar with six badges no less!

Little is known of its earlier years but it is understood that like so many of these wonderful cars, it found its way across the 'Pond' during the 70's & 80's.

It's not often that one mans journey to own Bentley is so succinct, following in his father's footsteps, the desire and penchant for a Coach built Bentley had evidently been instilled from a young age, thus he could do little to resist the temptation when approached in 2012 with BC110XC. Having been freshly imported from the US, he found the car with its owner in Dover, Kent. Swiftly snapped up, although perfectly useable, he decided to commit it to storage whilst he accrued funds for a full restoration.

The restoration was completed in 2019, the project grew, as often they do, and turned into a complete bare metal respray with the owner taking the opportunity to change colour from its current white to the deep, revealing tones of Bentley Dark Sapphire. To compliment this, the interior was completely re-trimmed in cream leather as well as receiving a new hood to match in blue, an iconic and tasteful combination.

The invoices on file give a clear impression of the huge works undertaken and certainly the whole car has stood up exceptionally well to being used frequently since its completion in 2019. One of its first drives post-restoration was to Sardinia on holiday, where it performed admirably and without fault.

Six years post its restoration, it was decided to undertake a thorough and complete inspection of the car in readiness of further active inter-continental touring. This has resulted in some sensible ongoing maintenance. In addition and in preparation for sale, the decision was made to undertake a precautionary total engine rebuild. This was done at Ranmore and was recently finished by our engineering shop. Afterwards, it headed across to our paint shop for the correction of some minor blemishes to ensure it presents exceptionally today.

Summary

This is a fabulous car which has been beautifully restored, driven and enjoyed by a long-standing Bentley owner and enthusiast. Its the perfect example of a car that has been well-used and embarked upon some epic road trips, whilst at the same time properly maintained to ensure it always presents well and drives sublimely. Today it is ready for its next

It would be a pleasure to answer any questions you might have. However, to really appreciate this Bentley, it needs to be seen and experienced, so do please call to arrange a viewing.