1956 Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe

S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe image

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The Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe of 1956 is a true classic car that reflects the pinnacle of luxury and engineering of its era. This masterpiece is the ultimate embodiment of class and elegance, fitting every inch of its lavish style with numerous technical features that make it a unique and distinguished vehicle.

The body of the Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe is made of all-steel, which is an impressive engineering marvel of its time. This feature alone sets it apart from many other classic cars, which used a combination of aluminum and steel. The body is designed in a way that eliminates the need for many body seams, resulting in a smooth and flowing exterior.

The Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe is powered by a six-cylinder engine that provides the vehicle with the robust performance and acceleration it deserves. The engine is a 4.9-liter straight-six that produces 178 horsepower, which is an impressive feat for its time. The engine is a derivative of the twin-carbureted engine built for the Rolls Royce.

The vehicle has a four-speed automatic transmission that works cohesively with the engine to provide a smooth ride. The exclusive gearbox is designed in such a way that the driver has to shift the gears manually, which gives the car a sporty feel. The car also features hydraulic drum brakes, which provide for stable and efficient braking.

The Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle with independent coil and torsion bar front suspension, which provides exceptional handling and control. The car has a double wishbone rear suspension that ensures that every ride is comfortable and controlled.

The car's interior is made of luxurious leather, which is a testament to the attention to detail that went into creating this masterpiece. The elegant dashboard features top of the range gauges, switchgear, and instrumentation, all finished in high-quality chrome plating.

In conclusion, the Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe of 1956 is one of the most impressive engineering feats of its time. It is a car that embodies elegance, class, luxury, and unmatched craftsmanship. From the powerful six-cylinder engine to the exquisite leather interior, every detail of this vehicle was designed with technical expertise and attention to detail. The Bentley S1 Continental Drop Head Coupe is not just a car; it is a work of art that has stood the test of time and continues to impress car enthusiasts with its impeccable style and engineering.

Milestones

- Introduced in 1955 as a replacement for the Bentley R-Type - Manufactured between 1955-1959, with a total of 431 units produced - Featured a 4.9-liter inline-six engine with twin SU carburetors, producing 178 horsepower - Equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission and power steering - Had a top speed of around 120 mph and could go from 0 to 60 mph in around 11 seconds - Offered as a two-door convertible with a fabric top and luxurious interior amenities - Price at the time of release was around £7,500, making it one of the most expensive cars on the market - Served as a symbol of luxury and opulence for the wealthy elite of the era - Today, it is considered a rare and highly valuable classic car, with a price tag of several hundred thousand dollars for well-preserved models.


Technical

- Engine: 4.9-liter inline-six - Power: 178 hp at 4,500 rpm - Top speed: 115 mph - Transmission: 4-speed automatic - Steering: hydraulic power-assisted - Suspension: independent front and rear - Brakes: hydraulic drum brakes - Body style: drop head coupe - Exterior dimensions: 191.5 inches long, 60 inches tall, 70.5 inches wide - Wheelbase: 123 inches - Curb weight: 4,560 pounds - Fuel capacity: 23 gallons - Production: 31 were made in 1956 - Price (1956): £7,625 - Notable features: hand-crafted coachwork, luxurious interior with real wood trim, radio and clock as standard equipment, optional power-assisted steering and windows.

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