Description
This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at Supercar Fest 2026 on Saturday the 16th of May, Sywell Aerodrome, Sywell, Northampton, NN6 0BN. The Bentley Motors Continental Drophead Coupé offered here represents a poignant closing chapter in the marque’s storied history. The acquisition of Bentley by Volkswagen AG in 1998 signalled not merely a change of ownership, but the end of an era that had endured for almost eighty years. Equally significant was the absorption of Mulliner Park Ward, the revered coachbuilding arm responsible for crafting these elegant motor cars, now reduced to a commissioning division within the modern Bentley structure.
As such, the Continental models of this period stand as the final expressions of traditional Bentley coachbuilding and the last to emerge from Mulliner Park Ward’s distinguished workshops. Production was strictly limited, with just 77 examples completed across both Drophead Coupé and Fixed Head Coupé forms, ensuring their position among the most exclusive of post-war Bentleys.
Although still motivated by the ubiquitous 6. 75-litre, naturally aspirated, V8 producing approximately 240bhp fed through the GM400 three-speed automatic transmission, cars from 1987 benefitted from mid-80s updates including electronic fuel injection, ABS, and fully electronic seats. Additionally the 1987 model is famous for its "bespoke" level of craftsmanship, with each car taking approximately four months to build.
Supplied new in July 1987 by the esteemed London agent Jack Barclay, this particular example is presented in the timeless and highly complementary combination of Royal Blue coachwork over a magnolia hide interior, tastefully accented with dark blue piping and complemented by a matching hood. The car’s condition speaks volumes with the paintwork retaining a deep and lustrous finish whilst the interior remains beautifully preserved, consistent with the remarkably low indicated mileage of just 48, 540.
Accompanying the motor car is an impressively comprehensive history file and its original book pack. The service record reveals diligent annual maintenance by Jack Barclay during the Bentley’s early years, followed by attentive care from respected marque specialists. In more recent times, the car has been maintained by The Chelsea Workshop, with regular servicing undertaken between 2016 and 2021. Further supporting documentation includes a continuous run of MOT certificates dating back to 1990, which will be joined by the latest one after a fresh MOT inspection just prior to the sale.
Combining rarity, provenance and understated elegance, this low mileage Continental Drophead Coupé offers an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the last truly coach-built Bentleys — a motor car of enduring appeal, perfectly suited to refined summer motoring.
