1965 Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur Mulliner Park Ward
1031
Current bid
£25,000
1965 Bentley S3 Continental Flying Spur Mulliner Park Ward
Highlights
One of only 87 S3 Continental Flying Spurs built, of which just 69 were right-hand drive
Coachwork by H.J. Mulliner Park Ward
In current ownership for 26 years
Serviced in April 2026
The Appeal
The 3rd iteration of Bentley's Continental Flying Spur may well be the lofty summit of Crewe's coachbuilt tradition. Clothed in bespoke four-door bodywork by H.J. Mulliner Park Ward and powered by a 6,230cc lightweight aluminium V8, this remarkable classic marries up genuine sporting ability with the space and elegance of a full four-door saloon - a rare and deeply desirable combination in the early 1960s, and one that commands enormous respect today.
The Mulliner cars were blessed with distinctive slanted quad-headlights, a lowered hood line, and lightweight aluminium-alloy coachwork. It was also the final iteration of the Bentley to be built in the tradition of separate-chassis luxury, before the introduction of Crewe's new T-Series cars.
This 1965 example, chassis BC76XE, is one of just 87 S3 Continental Flying Spurs produced, and one of only 69 built in right-hand drive. It has been with its current owner since January 2000 and was resprayed in Dark Blue upon acquisition. It's been very well looked after, with an annual service carried out in April 2026.
The vendor describes the car as tremendous to drive and thoroughly finished. If you're after one of the rarest and most distinguished Bentleys of the post-war era, this machine is bound to tick plenty of boxes - one of the most handsome, well-reputed cars of its era. image.png1.98 MB
History and Paperwork
First registered in 1965 in the United Kingdom
The DVLA records 3 former keepers
The vendor tells us that the car has been in their ownership since January 2000
Chassis number BC76XE
Odometer reads 4,420 miles
The vendor tells us that the car has gone 'around the clock', with an estimated mileage of approx. 104,420 miles
Re-sprayed in Dark Blue in 2000
MOT exempt
Selection of paperwork including V5C, photocopied history book and a selection of invoices
Blue paintwork appears consistent, with a fine glossy shine
Brightwork contrasts nicely
Colour-matched wheelset
Underside appears well-kept with gentle patina
Interior is very original
Gentle patina to the leather
Wooden veneers carry gentle signs of wear
Instruments are clean and legible
Carpets and headlining carry light wear
Handsome proportions, distinctive headlights and a low-slung profile mean that Mulliner's interpretation of the S3 felt modern and sleek without sacrificing its old-money aesthetic. It's still a deeply handsome car, instantly turning heads and carrying plenty of period character.
This example stands as a grand ambassador. Having been repainted at the turn of the millennium, it still carries a fine, bright gloss with richly contrasting chrome and gleaming glasswork. Everything about it feels rich and highly finished, perfect for the upper-class elite, while the cabin conjures up a gentleman's parlour.
Slight patina has settled into the leather, and the veneers carry gentle signs of wear, but it's of little detriment to the car's distinguished appearance, especially considering it's now over sixty years old. image.png1.63 MB
The Mechanics
6,230cc lightweight aluminium V8 engine
4-speed automatic transmission
True-to-factory spec
Annual service carried out in April 2026
Capable of a lofty top speed in excess of 115mph, the S3 Continental was no slouch in its day, and is still more than capable of keeping up with the modern network. The lightweight aluminium engine offered plenty of graft without breaking the scales, and made for a pretty modern machine under the bonnet.
The vendor tells us that the car was serviced in April 2026, and is still running as it should, with lively performance on offer and that sonorous V8 still playing its merry tune for the lucky new keeper. If you've ever wanted to experience the life of a true lauded gentleman on the road, we'd wager you'll have trouble finding better than this one.
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.
Comments
No comments yet
Ask a question, share your knowledge, or show this auction some love!