Description

The Bentley Continental was originally introduced in 1952 as a high-performance grand tourer, designed for long-distance driving at high speeds with comfort and elegance. Developed from the Bentley R-Type, the Continental was distinguished by its sleek, aerodynamic fastback design crafted by H.J. Mulliner. At its launch, it was the fastest four-seater in the world, capable of speeds exceeding 100 mph, which was remarkable for a luxury car of its time.

Under the bonnet, the early Continentals were powered by a 4.6-litre straight-six engine, which was later upgraded to a 4.9-litre version. The engine was tuned for higher performance, complemented by a lightweight body that was built with aluminum panels to reduce weight and enhance agility. This made the car not only luxurious but also truly capable as a grand tourer, able to handle European motorways and alpine passes with ease.

The interior of the Continental featured the finest materials, including Connolly leather, rich walnut veneer, and thick carpeting, all tailored to the customer’s specifications. Each car was hand-built, and many were fitted with bespoke features, reflecting the tastes and requirements of their distinguished clientele.

The Continental name later evolved into a range of performance-oriented Bentleys, carrying the spirit of the original model into modern times. Despite changes in design and technology over the decades, the Continental has always remained true to its core principles: performance, luxury, and long-distance comfort. Early examples of the Bentley Continental, especially the R-Type Continental, are now considered among the most iconic and collectible cars in Bentley’s storied history.