1956 Bentley S1
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Year of manufacture1956
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Mileage18 857 mi / 30 348 km
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Car typeOther
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Lot number252
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Reference number138292_145421
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DriveRHD
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ConditionUsed
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Location
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Exterior colourOther
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GearboxAutomatic
Description
"Successor to the R-Type, the Bentley S1 was introduced in 1955 with a whole new chassis; the car's wheelbase had been extended 3 to 123, and the luggage compartment was expanded. The S1 had softer suspension than the R-Type, with electrically controlled rear shock absorbers. Brakes had been improved, and the steering was lighter. This model marked the final integration of Bentley with Rolls-Royce - the standard saloons were now entirely alike, but for grilles and badging. The British Magazine, the Motor reported a top speed of 103 mph and 0-60 acceleration of 13.1 seconds from a short-wheelbase S1 in 1957.
Copies of the factory build sheets show that this Bentley S1 Sports Saloon left the works in March 1956. It is finished in dark green with a beige hide interior and was sold new via Murkett Bros Ltd of Bedford to first owner Sir Ronald Stewart, owner and Chairman of the London Brick Company. The DVLA records for this handsome Bentley show that a further seven owners have enjoyed the car. A Mr. Clasen of Eaton terrace was the owner between 1995 and 2007 during which time he spent over £27,000 servicing the car with marque specialists Frank Dale and Stepsons. Works included an engine rebuild in 2002 at 86,896 miles, a stainless steel exhaust, a rebuild of the rear axle and differential, a brake system overhaul and a front suspension rebuild. A subsequent owner had a Harvey Bailey handling kit fitted and in 2016 this striking British classic benefitted from new inner and outer sills, lower wing sections and some repairs to the rear chassis legs. Presented to auction with a V5c Registration document, lots of service receipts and in spite of exemption due to age, a valid MOT test certificate. Consigned by Dominic Lake.
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