1964 Bentley S3 Continental

It was in the final years of Bentley’s coach-built era that the world saw the emergence of the S3 Continental, which was the last of the truly hand-crafted grand tourers from Crewe and, arguably, one of the finest expressions of British motoring elegance.

From 1962 to 1966, just 328 S3 Continentals were built, of which a mere 68 were delivered in right-hand-drive configuration. Of those, only 291 bore the sleek, cutting-edge bodywork by Mulliner Park Ward, making them an increasingly rare sight on the world stage today.

Among this very limited run stands this striking example: a factory right-hand-drive Bentley S3 Continental bodied by Mulliner Park Ward and delivered new to Colonel M. Batchelor, CBE, in the UK. A decorated British military officer and early motorsport pioneer, Colonel Batchelor famously won the Isle of Man TT in 1908, adding a unique, colourful provenance to this already significant car.

Originally finished in Midnight Blue over a subtle blue-grey hide, the Bentley remained in the Colonel’s possession until 1966, after which it continued its journey through a handful of UK custodians before finding its way to the United States in the early 1980s. It was advertised for sale in the 1988 Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club (RROC) US magazine, where it was purchased by an Australian enthusiast and subsequently brought to Australia.

After changing hands a few times locally, the car was acquired by a new owner in 2015, at which time it was described as “tired”, cosmetically worn, and mechanically in need of attention. Over the next six years, an extensive and sympathetic restoration was carried out (2015 – 2021), led by UK Motors Victoria and David Ekberg Specialists—both highly regarded for their work on post-war Bentley and Rolls-Royce motor cars.

The result is a beautifully restored Continental that retains its original character but features tasteful updates, including a hidden Bluetooth audio system with phone output—seamlessly blending modern convenience with classic design. The original toolkit remains with the car, as does a comprehensive file of receipts, ownership records, and restoration documentation, making it a true collector’s package.

The S3 model is instantly recognisable by its quad-headlamp configuration, a forward-thinking design pioneered by Vilhelm Koren that introduced Bentley to the modern age. While some traditionalists noted the shift to steel body panels (with aluminium retained for the bonnet, doors, and boot-lid), the design was a breakthrough: long, elegant, and unmistakably Continental. The razor-edged roofline, slanted grille, and fluid silhouette are as commanding today as they were at its debut.

Inside, the S3 Continental offers an unmistakably Bentley experience: deep armchair-style seating, polished walnut trim, power windows, and a level of refinement that had no peer.

On the road, the Bentley S3 Continental delivers authoritative V8 power with Bentley’s famed refinement. It is equipped with Selectaride adjustable dampers—an advanced technical flourish of the era—and provides a smooth, composed ride at speed. In every sense, it is a gentleman’s express, built not for brashness but for long-distance grace.

This particular car represents more than just rarity. With its illustrious first owner, desirable RHD configuration, high-quality restoration, and unrepeatable history, it is among the most complete, usable, and collectable examples of the S3 Continental available anywhere in the world.

The Bentley S3 Continental by Mulliner Park Ward marked the end of an era. It was the last of the truly bespoke Bentleys hand-built for an elite clientele before modern mass-production methods took hold. Today, this grand tourer of effortless style, royal lineage, and timeless charm stands ready to write its next chapter.