Nineteen fifty-nine marked an important milestone in the mechanical development of Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars.

The Series I six-cylinder engine had been developed to the fullest extent, and most competitors had long since offered smooth and silent V-8 engines.

A new 6,230-cc aluminum V-8 replaced the former six-cylinder powerplant.

Incredibly quiet and smooth, it was fitted with hydraulic tappets along with modified braking and lubrication systems, as well as standard automatic transmission and power steering.

Bentley’s introduction of the S2 Continental continued the company’s tradition of “The Silent Sports Car,” as it was an automobile in which four adults could travel long distances in great comfort.

Few body styles on this sporting chassis were quite as seductive as coachbuilder H.J.

Mulliner’s design no.

7508, a four-door sport saloon with sculpted rear fenders and attractive close-coupled lines.

Penned by noted designer George Moseley, the S2 was the forerunner o...