Bentley’s Continental GT revitalized the brand in 2002, but a far more exclusive precursor, the Continental SC (Sedanca Coupe), debuted in 1999. Now, a remarkably well-preserved example is heading to auction, potentially fetching a price comparable to a brand-new Continental GT. This car isn’t just a luxury vehicle; it’s a rare piece of automotive history, highlighting Bentley’s willingness to experiment with unique designs decades before many competitors.
A Design Ahead of Its Time
The Continental SC, based on the Continental R, distinguished itself with a striking feature: a two-piece removable glass roof. Unlike traditional convertibles, the SC offered open-air driving without sacrificing structural rigidity. The glass panels, alongside a fixed glass section above the rear seats, create an airy cabin experience. These roof panels stow neatly in a dedicated trunk compartment, and the car leverages structural components from the Azure convertible to maintain stability when open.
The exterior is classic Bentley: a black finish, upright matrix grille, red badging, and subtle chrome accents. The car rolls on five-spoke 18-inch wheels, completing a timeless silhouette that still turns heads nearly 30 years later.
Luxurious Interior and Robust Performance
Inside, the Continental SC boasts perfectly preserved heated leather seats with optional black piping, complemented by burled walnut trim and an Alpine audio system with a CD changer. The cabin is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to refined luxury.
Beneath the hood lies a turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine delivering 400 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, the car accelerates from 0-60 mph in just over six seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph. These figures might not match modern standards, but they were impressive for a luxury coupe in 1999.
A Collector’s Opportunity
This particular car, originally sold in the Canadian market, is one of only 73 Continental SCs produced (with an additional six Mulliner variants). Remarkably, it has been driven just 4,330 km (2,691 miles) over the past 27 years.
The auction, hosted by RM Sotheby’s in Miami, will be held without reserve. Estimates place the final bid between $250,000 and $300,000. While expensive, this represents a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Bentley heritage—a car that proves luxury and innovation can coexist beautifully.
This vehicle isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in a legacy of automotive excellence. Few examples surface in such pristine condition, making it a truly exceptional find for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
