Bentley S2 (1959-62)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The **1959 Bentley S2** was known for its luxury and performance, but like any classic car, it had its share of common faults: Buyers Guide - Unique Cars](https://www.tradeuniquecars.com.au/bentley-s1-s2-s3-1955-65-buyers-guide/)

1. **Oil Leaks**: Oil leaks were a frequent issue, often leading to more serious problems if not addressed promptly](https://motorandwheels.com/problems-with-bentley-cars/).
2. **Electrical Issues**: The electrical system could be temperamental, with issues in the wiring and connections.
3. **Suspension Problems**: The suspension system could wear out, leading to a less comfortable ride.
4. **Rust**: Like many cars of its era, rust could be a problem, especially in the body panels and chassis.
5. **Brake Wear**: The braking system could wear out faster than expected, requiring regular maintenance.

Despite these issues, the Bentley S2 remains a beloved classic among enthusiasts.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **1959 Bentley S2** was available in several trim levels and body styles:

1. **Standard Saloon**: The base model with a 2-door or 4-door saloon body.
2. **Drophead Coupe**: A 2-door convertible body style, often built by coachbuilders like H.J. Mulliner & Co.
3. **Long-Wheelbase Saloon**: A longer version of the standard saloon, also available with different coachbuilt bodies.
4. **Continental**: A high-performance version with more powerful engines and lighter bodywork, often bodied by Park Ward, Hooper, H.J. Mulliner & Co, and James Young.

These trim levels and body styles offered a range of luxury and performance options for buyers.
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Engine
The **Bentley S2** was fitted with a **6.2-liter V8 engine**. This engine was a naturally aspirated, overhead valve (OHV) unit with 8 cylinders, producing around **200 horsepower**. It was a significant upgrade from the previous 6-cylinder engines, offering improved performance and reliability.
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Performance
The **1959 Bentley S2** was expected to deliver the following performance:

- **Engine**: 6.2-liter V8 engine
- **Power**: Around **200 horsepower**
- **Top Speed**: Approximately **112 mph (180 km/h)**
- **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in about **10.5 seconds**
- **Transmission**: 4-speed automatic

These specifications made the Bentley S2 a powerful and luxurious option for its time, offering a smooth and comfortable driving experience.
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Rivals
In 1959, the main rivals of the **Bentley S2** included the **Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II** and the **Jaguar Mark IX**. Here's a brief overview of their expected performance:

- **Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II**: Equipped with a 4.9L inline-6 engine, it produced around **180 horsepower**, with a top speed of approximately **100 mph (160 km/h)** and a 0-60 mph time of about **10.5 seconds**.
- **Jaguar Mark IX**: Powered by a 3.8L inline-6 engine, it delivered around **220 horsepower**, with a top speed of about **110 mph (177 km/h)** and a 0-60 mph time of around **9.5 seconds**.

These cars offered a blend of luxury and performance, making them strong competitors to the Bentley S2.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **Bentley S2** was designed by **John Blatchley**, who was Bentley's Chief Stylist at the time. Blatchley was known for his elegant and timeless designs, which contributed significantly to Bentley's reputation for luxury and sophistication.

As for its dimensions, the Bentley S2 had the following specifications:
- **Length**: 5,378 mm (211.7 inches)
- **Width**: 1,900 mm (74.8 inches)
- **Height**: 1,575 mm (62 inches)
- **Wheelbase**: 3,124 mm (123 inches)
- **Kerb Weight**: 1,981 kg (4,367 lbs)
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Spares/Specialists NI
For **spares** for your Bentley S2 in the UK or Ireland, you can check out **SC Parts** and **Flying Spares**. They specialize in parts for classic Bentley models and have a wide selection available.

As for **specialist garages** in Northern Ireland, you can visit **McMillan Specialist Cars** in Antrim. They offer servicing for Bentleys and have experience with various models. Another option is the **Bentley Specialist Car Division** in Belfast, which focuses on Bentley cars.
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Racing
The **Bentley S2** itself wasn't specifically designed for racing, but its powerful **6.2-liter V8 engine** and robust build made it a favorite among enthusiasts for various driving events and rallies. The **Bentley S2 Continental** variant, with its higher performance engines and lighter bodywork, was particularly well-suited for such activities.
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Valuation
The value of a **1959 Bentley S2** in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and original features. Generally, you can expect it to be valued between **£55,000 and £250,000**. Well-maintained examples with low mileage and original parts tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum.
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