Bentley S2 1959–1962 car dimensions: 5378 mm long, 1898 mm wide and 1626 mm high. Unladen weight is 2,108 kg.
The cabin features leather upholstery and a wooden dashboard with a revised layout and smaller steering wheel on most cars. Power-assisted steering and four-speed automatic transmission are standard. Electrically operated ride control is standard. Air conditioning is redesigned for greater flexibility and available. Electric rear window demisters and press-button window lifts are available. An original radio is often fitted.
The boot provides enough space for a family's luggage. Fitted luggage sets became available as an option from late 1960, with a nine-piece set or a six-piece set for cars with boot-mounted air conditioning.
The cabin uses deep high-grade leather on spring seats with foam overlays, french walnut veneer on the dash and rails, and thick carpets. Front seats adjust separately for reach and inclination or form a bench, with height-adjustable door armrests, ashtrays and folding tables in the backs. It runs almost silently with windows closed so low voices carry at speed. Redesigned air conditioning is more flexible, electric rear window demisters are available, and press-button window lifts can be specified.
6.2-litre aluminium V8 petrol engine with twin SU carburettors and automatic choke
Four-speed automatic transmission standard
Power-assisted steering standard
Servo-assisted drum brakes all round with dual hydraulic front circuits and mechanical rear
Individual greasing points need attention every 10,000 miles or yearly
The aluminium V8 takes petrol through twin carburettors. The tank supports a touring range of around 400 km. city driving raises consumption.
Central chassis lubrication was dropped. Greasing points with individual reservoirs need service every 10,000 miles or once a year. Workshop manuals cover the engine, automatic gearbox, brakes, suspension and air-conditioning system in detail.
Brakes use two hydraulic circuits at the front plus a mechanical rear circuit so total failure is remote. Power steering is standard. The heavy separate chassis and body give solid protection by the standards of the day.
Live with the car by keeping the traditional mechanicals in regular order. Specialist knowledge and parts keep the V8, Hydramatic gearbox and complex brake servo working as intended.
Length 5378 mm, Width 1898 mm, Height 1626 mm, Wheelbase 3124 mm (S2 1959–1962)
Sources: manufacturer data, Rolls-Royce Workshop Manual TSD 729 Section A2, Chapter D: fuel tank 18 Imp. gal and automatic gearbox, Engine Manual TSD 753.