Bentley’s Continental SC marked the unexpected resurrection of a body style unseen since the Classic Era, the sedanca coupe. Each car was based upon the architecture of the contemporary Continental R, but with Continental T-style suspension and distinctive red badging. Its purposeful stance was amply supported by the 6.75-liter turbocharged V-8 engine underhood, producing 400 horsepower and a staggering 590 pound-feet of torque; with the sprint to 60 mph taking just over six seconds and a stated top speed of 155 mph, performance was—and is even today—breathtaking.

Most significantly, it sported a full tinted glass roof panel that incorporated a two-piece removable section over the driver’s seat—similar to the “T-top” of a modern Camaro or Corvette, but without a central bar. When removed from the car, the panels would fit into a special padded and carpeted hold within the trunk, allowing for easy transformation of the coupe into a sunny near-convertible. Some structural components of the Azure convertible were incorporated into the design, ensuring that the car would remain as tight as a conventional coupe on the road.

“Its highly advanced, removable glass roof design is ideal for all climates and conditions,” described the announcement of the model, “offering Bentley owners a combination of open-air motoring and the comfort of a closed cabin. It is immensely fast and a motor car of exceptional style and passion.”

The Continental SC would be written as among the rarest Bentleys of its era. Only 73 were produced between late 1998 and early 2000, of which 48 were left-hand-drive models. Understandably many were bought and preserved by collectors and enthusiasts, who recognized that they would remain highly sought-after—as, indeed, they have.

The example offered here is in splendid overall condition, with just 4,330 kilometers (~2,691 miles) from new at the time of cataloguing. Delivered new to Canada via Bentley Toronto, it is finished in the very classic and iconic livery of Black over an Autum leather interior with extra-cost Black piping; extra-cost Wilton overmats in Sahara sit over Black carpets. The cabin is accentuated within by rich burled walnut paneling and an impressive later Alpine stereo system. Accompanying are original books and tool set, as well as two keys.

Simply put, this is a sterling example of one of its manufacturer’s finest, and most scarce, modern creations.