1986 | Bentley Continental

The acquisition of Bentley Motors in 1998 by Volkswagen AG brought an end to an era of almost eight decades of cars built by Bentley. Mulliner Park Ward, the coachbuilding division of Rolls-Royce that built this model of the Continental, was also sold to Volkswagen AG and is now simply a personal commissioning department for the Bentley brand. The Continental Bentleys of this era are therefore not only examples of the last coach built Bentley but also the last from Mulliner Park Ward. Only seventy-seven examples were built comprising both the drophead convertible, such as this car, and its fixedhead coupe counterpart.

This is an exceptional example, which has been in our vendor's ownership since March 2018 and has had in excess of £30,000 lavished on it since then, to ensure it is in excellent order throughout. The largest bill came in May 2018, totalling almost £17,000. This included a thorough hydraulic system service and overhaul, new front discs and pads, suspension overhaul, new tyres, replacement of many seals and gaskets, AC compressor, steering rack replacement and many other jobs. More than £8,000 was spent in 2024, £1,541 of which was spent on replacing the hydraulic brake pump and Connolising the interior, which is in superb condition. A further £6,759 was spent on attending to some small electrical issues, refinishing all interior piano black trims, a new oil pressure gauge, new wiper motor, an 'A' service and inspection, strip down and re-assembly of front suspension and various other jobs, meaning the car is absolutely ready to be enjoyed. The car comes to sale with a very recent service by Ranmore Engineering, so it is ready to be enjoyed right away by the new owner.

The overall condition of the car is exceptional, the coachwork is straight and the paintwork gleams, the interior shows very little signs of ageing and the hood isn't faded or torn. The car has a rather interesting history, having first been delivered by Jack Barclay on 23rd May 1986 to a Mr Asil Nadir, of Polly Peck International and it still wears its original colour combination of Acrylic Tudor red with black upholstery and a black hood. This Bentley is supplied to auction with a V5C registration document, MoT test certificate valid until April 2026, a comprehensive history file, owner's manual and service booklet containing 24 stamps and invoices showing further servicing. This example would be a fantastic addition to any collection, safe in the knowledge that it has been in the care of an enthusiast owner, who has spent a lot of money ensuring the car virtually wants for nothing. Consigned by Fraser Smith

Lot details
Year: 1986
Make: Bentley
Model: Continental Convertible
Registration: C704 EUV
Chassis No: SCBZD0002GCH14660
Engine No: 14660
Mileage: 38,800


* In excess of £30,000 spent with Ranmore Service and Engineering since 2018

* Extensive history file

* Formerly owned by Mr Asil Nadir of Polly Peck International

* Fabulous condition