Bentley is counted among a handful of automotive brands that still provide hand-finished vehicles to users. Therefore, its vehicles are synonymous with craftsmanship and comfort. Bentley carries a century-old legacy and has been credited for a number of successful model series. Some of these ranges are discontinued after a certain period, and others are still being manufactured.
Here we will discuss details about the past Bentley models that are discontinued, their trims and unique features.
Discontinued Bentley Models
The most interesting fact about Bentley is that it has the widest hand-crafted model ranges, some of which are discontinued despite performing well. There are multiple reasons for the discontinuation of a model series. These reasons vary from model to model and also depend upon the financial situation of the manufacturer. In the case of Bentley, the majority of models were discontinued to make space for new vehicles.
Let’s elaborate on the discontinued Bentley models and their features in more detail.
Bentley T1 Saloon (1965 to 1976)
The T1 Saloon is counted among old Bentley models known for their luxury and comfort. The T1 Saloon was in production from 1965 to 1976. The car was built on a modern single-frame structure with a sportier look. It contains a top rounded radiator grille, metallic bumpers and turn signals at the corner.
A new air intake was also installed under the radiator grille for cooling the engine. The interior was leather finished with a gear selector behind the steering. Therefore, three adults can be seated in the front and rear seats. It would be better to say that T1 was not discontinued, it was transitioned to an upgraded T2 Saloon series.
Bentley T2 Saloon (1977 to 1980)
The T2 Saloon series was launched in 1977 and was in production till 1980. It was the continuation of the T1 Saloon, but with more advanced features. For better vehicle handling, a rack and pinion steering system was installed. Whereas, the interior was completely redesigned with new A/C. head restraints and dashboard. A 6.75-litre V8 engine was used to power this vehicle.
Bentley Arnage Range (1998 to 2009)
Bentley unveiled Arnage in the year 1998 it is cointed among one of the best selling models of Bentley that are discontinued. The full-size luxury sedan was named after a popular racing circuit at Le Mans. The earlier models of Arnage were equipped with a 4.4-litre V8 engine known for its performance and efficiency.
The Arnage R was the Grand Tourer trim launched in 2002. The trim was considered a perfect combination of tradition and technology. It was equipped with a 6.75-litre V8 engine that can accelerate Arnage R from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds.
The Arnage’s Final Edition vehicle was launched in 2009 marks the end of this model range. The Final Edition features a tyre pressure monitoring system, automatic transmission, headlamps bezel, air vents and twin exhaust tailpipes. The car was powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 engine that can accelerate the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds.
Bentley Azure (1995 to 2009)
Azure was the two-door convertible of Bentley launched in 1995. The car was a perfect combination of modernization and signature elements of Bentley that redefines luxury. The exterior was decorated with deep body lines, a radiator grille and the Bentley logo. Whereas, wood-finished interior provides a grandeur feel to the occupants.
The convertible roof of Azure took only 25 seconds to glide away. Moreover, the computer-operated 4-speed automatic transmission system was present that ensures smooth gear shifting and also increases ride quality. The vehicle was powered by a 6.75-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine. The second generation of Azure was launched in 2006 with a more modernized and muscular exterior. The last model of this generation was launched in 2009 before the series was out of production.
Bentley Brooklands (1992 to 2010)
The full-size luxury sedan Brookland was launched by Bentley in 1992. The exterior of the car was decorated with Bentley’s front grille, round headlamps and chrome B-pillars. The first-generation brook land was offered with a rear-wheel-drive system and an efficient 6.75-litre V8 engine.
The second generation of Bentley was launched in 2007, after a break of ten years. This new generation was built on the chassis of two previously discontinued models Arnage and Azure. It is also acclaimed that Brookland (2007) was equipped with the fastest V8 ever built by Bentley at that time. The fastest Bentley Brookland was finally discontinued in 2010.
Bentley Continental Flying Spur (2005 to 2013)
Continental is one of the most popular models of Bentley that also saved the brand during hardships. To maintain its position in the market, different trims of the model series were unveiled including Flying Spur. Continental Flying Spur was first launched in 2005 and was marketed as a vehicle with higher agility. The car was powered by a 6.0-litre W12 engine that can generate a maximum of 560 hp.
The second generation was unveiled in 2009 with a more sophisticated interior and efficient engine. The 2009 Flying Spur can hit the road at a top speed of 320 km/h. For better driveability, an AWD drivetrain and a 6-speed automatic transmission system were also offered. The Bentley Continental Flying Spur remained in production till 2013.
This was all about past Bentley models that were discontinued due to various reasons. Bentley has marked its distinct position in the automotive industry because of its performance-oriented and luxury vehicles. If you are fascinated by this auto manufacturer, browse through these used Bentley models for sale in the UAE and upgrade your car.
No need to worry if your selected vehicle is discontinued, the company keeps on manufacturing spare parts for the discontinued models. So that people can drive their favorite vehicle even after discontinuation.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on old Bentley models.
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