What a difference a grille makes. This gorgeous 1962 Bentley S2 was almost identical to the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud SII, but its slightly racier nose and “winged B” hood ornament somehow make me think of those Bentley Boys at LeMans in the 1920s and early ’30s; it’s just that little bit sportier. Cheaper, too. The Bentley was about 100 British pounds less expensive than its Rolls-Royce equivalent, which nonetheless consistently outsold it in the early V8 era. Such is the power of prestige, I guess (not that a hundred pounds would matter to a buyer of either). Still, either one will cut a dashing figure in 21st-century America, and you can buy this one for a reasonable $31,900. Barn Finds reader Sam61 found it on Marketplace in Riverside, Illinois, and the seller says that it is “ready to be cherished and [is] mechanically sound.”

The big news for the S2 Bentley was the new 6.25-liter V8, introduced in 1959. With two 1 3/4-inch SU carburetors up top, the new RR/Bentleys could accelerate to 60 in a quiet 11.5 seconds, all the while returning similar fuel mileage to the old six from the S1. This one has a modern air conditioning compressor, which was a factory option, but the seller doesn’t mention if it’s working or not (I think we know the answer, but hope springs eternal). This is certainly not a show-detailed engine compartment, but if you’re looking for a clean driver, it’s fine.

Of course, the real reason to own an old Bentley (aside from being seen in it) is its old-world interior, with a real walnut dashboard and plush leather seats. The front seat looks as if it’s in excellent condition, while the rear seat upholstery appears as if it may be original to the car. Power windows provide a little extra exclusivity, as if it were necessary. The Bentley’s power brakes didn’t use a mere vacuum booster, but rather the time tested “brake servo” operated by Rolls-Royce’s version of GM’s Hydramatic. You can see that this is a right-hand-drive car, which gives you something to talk about when you’re filling up at the gas station, which you will do relatively often with mileage ratings in the low-to-mid teens.

The “standard steel” S2 might not get enough credit for its styling, which may not have had the flash of the custom-bodied Rolls-Royces and Bentleys, but still looked as dignified yet vaguely sporting as you’d hope for a car so exclusive. I’m particularly enamored by the roof, a combination of square edges and rounded forms, with just the right back-window size, if that’s such a thing. Of course, the downside of owning a Bentley, even when it’s purchase price is relatively affordable, is that parts and repairs cost as much as they do for any Bentley, but if you don’t mind getting your hands dirty or if you “know a guy,” why not indulge yourself a little? Let us know in the comments if you pick this one up.