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.
