Bentley’s flagship Arnage of the 1990s was more than worthy of the title of the most luxurious and decadent saloon, though it retained its sporting “Bentley-ness”, tipped off by being named for the famous straight on the Le Mans circuit where the firm attained such great victories in the early days. The car was rebodied in the very sporting Continental 2-door coupé, equally reminiscent of the trans-European mile-crunchers for those on their Grand Tour. The next step was obvious: to take the top off. Based on the potent Bentley Continental R, the drop head Azure version was one of the most powerful cars of the era. The famous Italian styling house Pininfarina had been chosen to develop the Azure on the four-seater Continental R platform, and there was no question that the result was most successful.
Hailed by its maker as “the world’s best convertible,” the Azure lived up to that grand title, proving an immense success especially in the US where its combination of unmatched luxury, effortless performance and soft-top style was highly attractive. When production ceased in 2003 a total of only 1,321 Azures of all types had been built.
However, for 1998, Bentley offered a very special, low production run of just 10 Azures, named and badged the “California Edition”. Each was finished in Silver Pearl with a striking 2-tone light and dark grey interior. A widebody with flared wheel arches gave the car great presence. A plethora of small deviations from standard adorned the car, such as front and rear bumpers, chromed secondary grills, and additional brightwork to the exterior, while the interior received color coordinated vents and speaker grills, ruched door panels, wooden gear lever and door panel inserts, turbo boost gauge, etc. Upgrades were made ot the chassis and a more sporting feel to the steering. Parts were supplied by Mulliner Park Ward to ensure the quality and individuality of the rare car. Each had a numbered plate on the door sill.
The 1998 Bentley Azure offered here, is number 8 of the 10 California Editions. Purchased new in Beverly Hills, the car was enjoyed by a major restauranteur in town and driven a little less than 5,000 miles in the four years of ownership. The car then passed to our seller in Beverly Hills in 2002, who has covered only 9,000 miles in that time. Regularly serviced at Bentley of Beverly Hills, the car is offered in exceptional condition, both mechanically and cosmetically. The car starts easily, idles smoothly and has great power. All systems of brakes, suspension and electrical work perfectly, as does the cold AC and electrically powered soft top. Now, with an indicated 14,300 miles, the car is ready for its next custodian.
VIN: SCBZK14C9WCX61602
Location: Beverly Hills, California
SOLD
