Introduction
Colin Bashford
The Bentley S1 Continental represented the pinnacle of post-war British luxury motoring – a harmonious blend of refined engineering, effortless performance, and bespoke coachbuilding.
Unveiled in 1955 as the successor to the R-Type Continental, the S1 carried forward the grand touring ethos, but with a more advanced chassis, a smoother ride, and the newly introduced 4.9-litre straight-six engine derived from Rolls-Royce. It was a car designed to cover vast distances at speed and in comfort, quickly becoming the transport of choice for the discerning elite.
Among the rarest and most elegant variations of the S1 Continental were those clothed by James Young, a coachbuilder renowned for understated yet impeccably proportioned designs. Built in limited numbers, their aluminium-bodied saloons and coupés featured subtle curves, razor-edge detailing, and an air of restrained confidence that set them apart from the more flamboyant creations of the era. Each example was hand-finished to the client’s specifications, making every car a unique expression of taste and craftsmanship.
Aluminium coachwork brought both aesthetic and performance benefits – lighter than steel, it improved responsiveness without compromising comfort. Combined with Bentley’s meticulously engineered chassis and the silky-smooth engine, these James Young-bodied Continentals offered a driving experience that felt both stately and surprisingly spirited. Today, they remain highly prized among collectors not only for their rarity, but for the clarity of purpose they embody: quiet sophistication, peerless quality, and subtle distinction.
The example offered here is the Earls Court Show Car (confirmed by Bentley Archives), which has been cherished by Kirk, our vendor, for around five years. Now finished in a timeless colour scheme, it presents in highly original condition and retains the elegant lines and coachbuilt integrity for which James Young cars are so admired. Recently, it has been given a full mechanical recommission, and the hubcaps have been re-chromed to elevate its already graceful appearance, while the remainder of the car has been carefully preserved.
Being the first of only 20 aluminium-bodied S1 Continentals built and the last of the straight-six-engined cars, this example held an immediate appeal for Kirk as for him, the drive is the car’s greatest joy - Kirk told us, “The car does attract a lot of attention – even young kids point and smile. I was once waiting at a junction when two boys, probably about ten years old, were looking at it. One said, ‘Oh, look at that Rolls-Royce.’ His friend, with a beaming smile, replied, ‘That’s not a Rolls-Royce – that’s a Bentley!’ I had to ask how he knew, and he said, ‘The B on the front, mister!’ The attention has all been positive, unlike with some modern models.”
Now looking to spend more time on the water, Kirk has decided to sell the Bentley with us – although, during the shoot at the Rest and Be Thankful, the scenery clearly tugged at his heartstrings. He will be on hand to answer any questions and also welcomes anyone who wishes to view or drive the car.
This listing was written from information supplied by Colin after meeting Kirk the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.
