WORLD BEST

Car price tracker

Track car prices and stay informed on market trends with our comprehensive car pricing tool. See historical prices and compare models to make an informed decision on your next vehicle purchase. Find the best deal on your dream car today!
< Go back
Bentley

Bentley - S1/S2/S3 (1962)

Discover the allure of the Bentley S1 / S2 / S3, the emblematic grand tourer that first set the standard for luxury road cars in 1962. This timeless model has enchanted collectors and automobile enthusiasts for decades, and its legacy remains in high demand on the market. Below you’ll find a comprehensive overview: from the specifications that elevate the driving experience, to realistic depreciation insights, and comparisons with its contemporaries, helping you understand the true value of a classic Bentley.

  • Engine & Powertrain: 4.4‑L 12‑cylinder cylinder‑head Bentley CV. 3‑speed automatic transmission (the S1 & S2 featured the pioneering Jaguar‑derived “gentleman’s” automatic, while the S3 upgraded to a refined, later‑produced 4‑speed automatic). These engines consistently deliver around 238–250 horsepower, enabling a smooth, powerful ride.
  • Fuel & Efficiency: 10‑gal (about 38 liters) high‑octane fuel system. Classic cars of this era are not fuel‑efficient by modern standards, but efficient for the class – the fuel economy ranges around 12–15 mpg (5–8 km/l) combined.
  • Dimensions & Weight: Length 5.4 m (170 in), Width 2.3 m (90 in), Height 1.5 m (60 in). Typical curb weight 2,350 kg (5,185 lb) – a hefty platform suited for the spacious grand‑touring experience.
  • Suspension & Braking: Independent front (Hydro‑ynamic or later “air‑suspension”) and rear live axle with hydraulic shock absorbers. Vent closing or Gleason dual‑channel disc brakes (in the S1), upgraded to automatic float disc brakes in the S3, offer responsive stopping capability.
  • Interior & Features: Luxurious leather upholstery (original stitching or later “cubic” designs), wood‑trimmed dashboards, ambient brushed aluminum, a mix of electromechanical and analog gauges, and a 15‑inch aluminum alloy wheel base (later 17‑inch).
  • Notable Variants: S1 (1962–1963) – original version, S2 (1964–1968) – chamber‑lined chassis, S3 (1970–1975) – refined styling and mechanical updates for a smoother ride.

Depreciation Insight

Understanding how a Bentley S1 / S2 / S3 price evolves over time is essential for both new buyers and seasoned collectors. Classic cars generally follow a different depreciation trajectory compared to modern vehicles: