1961 Bentley S2 Continental Drop Head Coupe

1961 BENTLEY PARK WARD SII CONVERTIBLE – #BC9LCZ (Stock #4459) A rare, coachbuilt 1961 Bentley S2 Park Ward Continental Drophead Coupe, beautifully preserved and boasting exceptional provenance. One of only 65 left‑hand‑drive examples produced, this hand‑built convertible was delivered new to acclaimed British actor Laurence Harvey, star of The Manchurian Candidate, Room at the Top, Butterfield 8, and other major films of the era.

A Rare Coachbuilt Bentley with Exceptional Heritage

Bentley Motors has long been recognized for crafting some of the world’s most refined and exciting motorcars. In 1959, Park Ward introduced a striking new convertible design by Norwegian stylist Wilhelm Koren. These exclusive cars featured:

• Hand‑built construction
• Steel structural framework with lightweight alloy body panels
• New Rolls‑Royce 6.23‑liter V8 engine
• Top speed exceeding 130 mph

Only 125 total examples were produced — 65 LHD for export and 60 RHD for the UK — each built to the bespoke specifications of its original buyer.

Provenance: Delivered New to Laurence Harvey

Chassis #BC9LCZ was delivered new in the United States to Academy Award–nominated actor Laurence Harvey, one of the most recognizable dramatic performers of the 1950s and 1960s. Following Harvey’s passing in 1973, the Bentley was acquired by a respected Rolls‑Royce/Bentley collector in Chicago, and later by its current owner, who has cherished it for more than 40 years.

Since the early 1980s, the car has been kept in the carriage house of a Westchester, New York family, driven sparingly on special occasions and shown periodically at Rolls‑Royce Owners’ Club events.

Condition & Features

This Park Ward SII Convertible presents in near‑showroom condition, with beautifully preserved paintwork and leather. It is equipped with:

• Rolls‑Royce 6.23‑liter V8
• Automatic transmission
• Electric windows
• Power convertible top
• Retrofitted air conditioning
• Outstanding mechanical performance

The car drives with the smoothness, power, and refinement expected of a top‑tier coachbuilt Bentley.

Mileage & Price

80,339 miles $195,000

Summary

A rare and elegant Park Ward SII Continental Drophead, enriched by celebrity provenance and decades of careful stewardship. With its hand‑built construction, powerful V8 engine, and beautifully preserved condition, #BC9LCZ represents a unique opportunity to acquire a significant Bentley from a golden era of motoring.