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-   -   Bentley: Arnage news **Next Generation Teaser Released (page 2)** (https://acurazine.com/forums/automotive-news-6/bentley-arnage-news-%2A%2Anext-generation-teaser-released-page-2-%2A%2A-165539/)

Zoot 03-03-2004 03:55 PM

Bentley: Arnage news **Next Generation Teaser Released (page 2)**
 
http://car.kak.net/bilder/bentley/be...mousine08s.jpg
More pics here: http://car.kak.net/modules.php?op=mo...rder=0&thold=0

Reinforcing its position as the only manufacturer to offer genuine coach built commissions, and following a year of significant growth, Bentley Mulliner is proud to reveal a new Arnage Limousine, built in direct response to the wishes of Bentley customers around the world. Unlike cars such as the State Limousine or Bentley's popular high roof Arnage which are intended to present their occupants for ceremonial purposes, the new limousine has been designed for those who value their privacy above all else. Instantly recognisable from other Bentley limousines by its broad D-pillar aft of the rear doors, the new limousine allows its rear seat passengers to sit deeply recessed within a unique and luxurious interior, well away from prying eyes's natural sight-line. Not only does this afford a considerable degree of security and seclusion, it also provides passengers with a beautifully cosseting environment, reminiscent of the great Bentley Speed Six and 8-litre limousines of the 1920s and early '30s.

One look at the limousine in profile shows how the styling changes have transformed the visual feel of the Arnage. The first and most important modification is the addition of a 450mm (18 inches) section of bodywork within the wheelbase and, of course, fully engineered chassis modifications to accommodate its extra weight. As customers for such a car will almost invariably travel in the back, all this extra wheelbase has been given over to enhancing room in the rear with 200mm (8 inches) of the extra length alone located in the D-pillar.

Creating such a car is a considerable challenge in terms of engineering, styling and craftsmanship but the commissioning and execution of precisely such vehicles Bentley Mulliner thrives on. By having a team of world class experts operating as a dedicated department within Bentley Motors, Bentley Mulliner can respond with extraordinary speed to satisfy its customers' desires. For this reason, creating a car of the new limousine's complexity - which might take another manufacturer three years or more- has been done from scratch by Mulliner in little more than six months.

The result is a car that not only offers peerless comfort and a sumptuous, spacious rear cabin; it is also aesthetically pleasing from every angle, inside and out. For while others may be able to make cars as large as the new limousine, the real skill comes from how the finished article appears, the ambience it achieves and the way it is perceived. The limousine is a large and majestic car but it is also subtle, discreet and avoids ostentation and vulgarity. It is the kind of car that cannot be conjured out of nowhere: it is the result not only of painstaking design and engineering, but also the innate understanding of such cars that has been handed down the generations at Crewe. This personalisation is the commodity that cannot be bought or acquired and, among the world's luxury car makers, it exists only at Bentley.

Inside, the cabin of the limousine has been kept deliberately restrained, discreet and, it is fair to say, minimalist in execution. It would, of course, have been possible to fill the car with all manner of wonderful examples of Bentley Mulliner's unique skills but even the most comprehensively equipped car could only give a glimpse of Bentley Mulliner's capabilities. Instead, the idea that inspired the limousine's interior was that it should appear as a blank canvas to illustrate the fact that, within the bounds of legality and unlike any other car company, the interior of the car is the choice of the customer alone. Once it has finished its public duties, it will return to Bentley Mulliner to be equipped according to its new owner's specification.

In the meantime, twin, 12in DVD screens fitted into the rear of the front seats will provide prospective customers with the information and inspiration needed to whet the imagination's appetite and Bentley Mulliner specialists will be on hand to answer questions and offer advice.

"In the main," says Bentley Mulliner director Richard Charlesworth, "we are here to listen and respond. Our relationship with the customer is not like those of other car companies where you are told what you can have and you make your colour and materials selection accordingly. That approach puts a very definite limit on what can be achieved - convenient for the car company but less satisfactory for the customer. We have no limits - if it can be done, within all normal bounds, we will do it."

Some luxury car companies are fond of quoting statistics concerning how many option permutations it is possible to choose from, a number Bentley Mulliner is delighted to be unable to provide as it is, effectively infinite. With a car like the new limousine, Bentley Mulliner will provide the chassis, engine and body (though even these can all also be modified to suit customer choice) but the look and feel of the interior can be as personal to the customer's wishes as he or she likes. "When specifying a limousine," says Charlesworth, "it would be quite typical for a customer to come to Crewe and spend two days talking to our designers and engineers about their requirements. Many also choose to see our cabinet makers, seamstresses and metal workers going about their business with a dedication, care and love for their work that has all but disappeared from an increasingly time-hungry industry."

Other features of the new limousine include an unusually small rear windscreen to enhance the feeling of privacy inside and electric footrests that slide back and up to provide perfect support for your calves when relaxing.

Bentley Mulliner has also made use of the space inside the extended D-pillar. By carefully choosing softly padded but supportive substrates behind the pillar's upholstery, Mulliner has created the perfect resting place for a sleepy head. Specially extended rear headrests also help cradle the cranium. New illuminated vanity mirrors have also been designed into the D-pillar, providing passengers with the perfect way to check their appearance before leaving the privacy of the car.

To enhance further comfort, the rear door has been redesigned too, to reflect the fact that the passengers will now be somewhat further away thanks to the 200mm (8 inches) extension to the body between the rear door and wheel. In particular the armrest has been reworked and extended rearward while a further rest acts as a continuation of the armrest inside the D-pillar.

Naturally, the limousine also benefits from all the modifications announced for the 2005 model year Arnage. These enhancements are designed to supplement the extensive mechanical changes introduced with the Series Two Arnage in 2002 and improve the appearance, comfort and ease of use of all Arnages.

Most notable from the outside is the revised frontal treatment of the car which gives the Arnage a much stronger visual identity within the Bentley family, a styling direction evolved for the Continental GT Coupe. Twin individual headlamps are fitted and the bonnet line raised to give a more purposeful appearance. New bumpers are fitted and telescopic headlamp washer units replace the previous bumper mounted items. The radiator grille has a more integrated appearance and straight grille vanes are once more available.

Inside the centre console has been completely revised with new, unique switchgear for the air-conditioning controls, repositioned controls for the window winders, seats and mirror adjusters. The satellite navigation system has been re-engineered to give a more integrated, attractive appearance on top of the dashboard.

Powering the limousine is of course Bentley's legendary 6.75-litre turbocharged V8. Recently re-engineered from the ground up, the 400bhp powerplant offers performance aplenty and mighty low down torque, the hallmark of all Bentleys.

This new Bentley Arnage limousine is proof positive that the company remains unique in the way it listens and responds to its customers and in its ability to provide them with limousines with an unrivalled blend of luxury, elegance, technology and coachbuilding. It is a tradition that has survived since Bentley's earliest days and has been in practice at Crewe since its very first car, a Bentley MkVI, was produced 58 years ago. No other car manufacturer can approach this wealth of tradition, nor match the skills that result. Crewe is the home of handcraftsmanship, and Bentley Mulliner's new Limousine, its latest extraordinary creation.

Zapata 03-03-2004 10:30 PM

:pimpgrin:

Beltfed 03-03-2004 11:34 PM

Not really into the facelift, preferred the headlight housings......looked more aggressive.

Interior is a knockout though as always.

http://speed.supercars.net/boardpics...%20Driverc.jpg

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http://speed.supercars.net/boardpics...%20Drivera.jpg

http://speed.supercars.net/boardpics...%20Driverb.jpg

Black CL-S 4-Life 03-04-2004 08:02 AM

I love those seats...beautiful!

amisconception 03-05-2004 02:48 AM

wowowowow

i love the pattern on the leather seats

Beltfed 01-05-2005 08:27 AM

Bentley Arnage Drophead Coupe News **Into production early next year (page 1)**
 
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Bentley Arnage Drophead Coupe - the world's most elegant convertible
From Bentley's very earliest days, open-top cars have been an intrinsic part of the company's heritage. Over the decades that followed many revered convertible or 'drophead' models were created, both by notable Bentley coachbuilders such as Mulliner, Park Ward, and later 'in-house' at the company's Crewe headquarters.

From the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupe, through the later Corniche and Continental eras, up to the magnificent Azure of 1995, an entire portfolio of unashamedly glamorous and wonderfully desirable cars meant that Bentley retained its reputation as the creator of the world's most elegant convertibles.

Now that reputation has grown once more with the unveiling of the new Bentley Arnage Drophead Coupe show car at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show. It is a true four-seater convertible for the 21st century: a unique blend of classic Bentley design and craftsmanship married to a high-technology platform sourced from the 2005 Model Year Arnage. As such, it is the perfect natural successor to the Bentley Azure, whose eight-year lifespan cemented the marque's status as the prime provider of four-seater convertibles to this sector of the market.

First and foremost, the design is unmistakeably Bentley - it shares the same front end as the current Arnage range and its platform ensures it seats four adults in complete comfort. But it is also unmistakeably unique. The entire cabin and rear section of the car are newly designed, with a stunning new interior that has been influenced by contemporary furniture design; the objective being to create an opulent and inviting seating area that reflects its status as a car that is at home in Palm Springs or the Riviera.

The Arnage Drophead Coupe show car is more than just a conceptual design study, however. Its unveiling in Los Angeles represents the culmination of a truly innovative development programme that means the car is entirely production viable, as Bentley's chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen explains:

"The 2005 Arnage range has been extensively re-engineered at significant cost and is a very modern, high-technology saloon. It is natural, therefore, that we would use this base to further our reputation as the pre-eminent builder of large, luxury convertibles in the world.

"We had such amazing success with the Bentley Azure, which has developed a cult following although production stopped in 2003. There's no reason why this new Arnage derivative couldn't fill the gap left by the Azure. If customer demand is there, it could go into production within a very short space of time - as early as Spring 2006."

OVERVIEW

- The world's most elegant four-seater convertible that provides a powerful and refined open-top driving experience.
- Accommodation for four adults in complete comfort. The interior cabin is wider in the front and rear than the previous Bentley Azure convertible - the rear by 20%.
- New streamlined convertible body style with raked windscreen and fully automated canvas roof that stows perfectly flush in 25 seconds.
- Shares the Bentley Arnage's state-of-the-art platform, wheelbase and powertrain with 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 450bhp (336Kw) and 875Nm (645lb ft) torque.
- Benefits from the comfort suspension recently introduced on the Bentley
Arnage R.
- Pop-up rollover protection system for occupant safety in the event of over-turning.
- Unique interior styling with new seats, 'floating' armrests and mood lighting. Show car trimmed in Cotswold and Nautic Blue leather and Burr Oak veneer with a Boxwood inlay.
- Full production capability by Spring 2006 depending on market reaction.


Design

Bentley's design team cites the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupe and 1995 Azure as its main influences for the Arnage Drophead Coupe show car. Like the '50s convertible, the car has a deep body with a single feature line that runs along both flanks and rises at the powerful rear haunches before spearing off at the rear of the car. Similarly, the Azure's fast and flowing roofline is echoed in the show car's stunning seven-bow canvas roof that gives the car such a visible sporting profile when raised.

"The Arnage Drophead Coupe is the latest in a long line of much-admired Bentley convertibles and we wanted to reflect that heritage as directly as possible," says Dirk van Braeckel, director of design, Bentley Motors. "The key to a four-seater convertible is that its grace and elegance is on display when the roof is down but it shouldn't lose any of that beauty when it is raised. We think we have struck that balance with the beautiful lines of the roof."

That objective was achieved, explains Bentley's head of exterior design Raul Pires by inclining the windscreen as far back as possible - the car is 35mm lower than an Arnage. "We have tried to make the roof look as 'fast' as we can," he says. "The result is a design that combines fluidity, sportiness and elegance."

A new rear boot section also helps to accentuate the contemporary feel of the new convertible. Prominent wheel arches grace a slender, narrowing boot that results in a 'horse shoe' trailing edge. This graceful shape is reminiscent of the first Crewe-built Bentley, the 1946 MK6, and the overall effect is a subtle nod to the power and performance that lies beneath the stunning Meteor Blue bodywork.

New LED rear tail-lamps use technology borrowed from the Continental GT coupe range; while a chrome surround echoes the Arnage front head-lamp units. Further brightwork is found in the form of chrome exhaust finishers and handcrafted chrome bumpers and sills that extend around the entire car and sit alongside unique, six-spoke, 19-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels.

Of course, the nature of a convertible means that its interior is often on display as much as its exterior and the design team knew that the car's spacious cabin would need to make as big a statement as its stunning body. The decision was taken early on in the programme to design a rear-seat compartment that captures some of the exquisite feel and look of earlier Bentley convertibles.

"The S1 Drophead Coupe from 1955 had a wonderfully understated but luxurious interior," says Robin Page, head of interior design, Bentley Motors. "For example, the doors had simple armrests with a leather pad on them and we have reflected that in this car's hide-trimmed armrests that run the length of the cabin sides and appear to be suspended away from the door's actual surface.

"Similarly, we admired the fluted leather in earlier drophead Continentals and echoed that with the vast amounts of warm and inviting leather hide that extends past the seats and onto the parcel shelf, thereby emphasising the impressive dimensions of the rear compartment."

It's not only heritage that influenced the Arnage Drophead Coupe's look and feel. The interior design team appreciated the simplicity of the contemporary Peel chair created by Norwegian Olav Eldoy, who recognised that the swirling curve of a slice of orange peel could be the concept for a body-hugging seat. Those same principles are reflected in the curving rear seat and arm rest. For added atmosphere, indirect lighting casts a warm glow of light behind the door arm rests.

As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship is to the fore in the cabin. Beautiful Burr Oak veneers with a Boxwood inlay act as a counterpoint to the Cotswold and Nautic Blue leather while a wooden steering wheel with inlayed chrome rim is unique to the car.

Engineering and specification

Work on the Arnage Drophead Coupe started in January 2004 and only the introduction of new technologies and advanced production techniques meant it could be produced in such a short timescale, as Ashley Wickham, chief engineer, explains:

"The real challenge of this programme was to develop a car that had such stylish lines in the timescale we had available. With good planning and close teamwork we were able to combine simultaneous engineering and design with the latest 'fast-track' technologies - it was a great mix of conventional and new thinking.

"For example, right up to the point of engineering, digital data was taken from the clay model's surfaces on a day-by-day basis, even while some parts of the clay were still evolving. This ensured we could transfer the right design feeling directly to the CAD surfaces which are used to make the tooling. And to ensure that the designers could continue to make quick revisions to the car, new technologies were adopted as the programme progressed. The body panels, for example, were actually pressed from special resin-based tools which could be machined in a matter of days."

The twin-turbocharged V8 engine, double-wishbone suspension and extremely rigid body structure of the 2005 Model Year Arnage R provide a state-of-the-art basis for the Drophead Coupe. The show car is powered by a 450bhp (336Kw) version of the Arnage R's 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged intercooled V8 engine and produces 875Nm (645lb ft) of torque.

The Arnage's impressive ventilated brakes with Electronic Stability Programme, Antilock Braking System and Electronic Brake pressure Distribution work in conjunction with the independent double wishbone suspension and a computer-controlled adaptive electro-hydraulic damping system to ensure optimum stability and handling at all times. The Arnage Drophead Coupe also benefits from the introduction of the new comfort suspension system used on the Arnage R.

To guarantee the Drophead Coupe met aggressive body stiffness targets set at the start of the project, significant stiffening members have been added to the underlying Arnage chassis. These strengthened steel parts lie in the sill section of the car and extend into the A-pillars that form the windshield frame. Beneath the car, cross-bracing members reinforce the whole body shell. The result is a car that displays remarkable body stiffness.

Strengthening has also been applied to the body structure behind the rear seats where an advanced rollover protection system has been fitted. This immediately detects if the car is in danger of inverting and deploys two hoops that are integrated within the rear headrests. In conjunction with the strengthened front windshield frame, these are capable of supporting the entire weight of an over-turned car.

Not surprisingly, significant time and effort has gone into making the folding roof both beautiful as well as highly functional. Operated hydraulically at the touch of a switch, the impressive, three-layer canvas roof is elegantly stowed beneath the rear parcel shelf in a matter of 25 seconds. Because the roof is held in a separate well area, there is no impact on the generous boot space which was designed to be able to hold two sets of golf clubs and hand luggage.

Conclusion

The Arnage Drophead Coupe show car demonstrates that Bentley continues to lead the world when it comes to creating superlative cars that combine classic craftsmanship with contemporary design and unrivalled opulence. Indeed, Bentley is uniquely positioned to be able to offer cars of this quality in small production volumes, as Ashley Wickham, chief engineer, explains:

"There is clearly nothing quite like this car in the world - it is in a niche of its own. By the spring of 2006 we expect to be able to start production if there is sufficient interest from potential customers. It truly is the world's most elegant convertible."

The Arnage Drophead Coupe is that most admired of motor cars - a classic Bentley convertible based upon a tried and tested engineering platform that can fulfil the dreams of customers looking for exclusivity and indulgence in a car that evokes the Riviera lifestyle like no other.

"The launch of this car highlights the amazing flexibility of Bentley's engineering processes, demonstrating yet again that Bentley is the leader when it comes to bespoke cars," says Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, member of the board, engineering. "Some of the skills we have at Bentley don't exist anywhere else in the world and it shows in this car."

CGTSX2004 01-05-2005 08:48 AM

I'm not liking that paint-job, but the Bentleys are highly respectable cars.

gavriil 01-05-2005 10:08 AM

Wow!

titan 01-05-2005 10:10 AM

This car is named wrong. It should be Drop-dead Goregeous. It's absolutely classic Bently, with updated touches like the headlamps being updated and the wheels getting bigger. They must have slayed a whole rainforest for that interior. It's interesting the went with the traditional hood ornament (which looks great), as opposed to the "B" emblem they've been using on the hood lately.

Moog-Type-S 01-05-2005 10:19 AM

Elegant.

gavriil 01-05-2005 11:14 AM


Originally Posted by titan
This car is named wrong. It should be Drop-dead Goregeous.

Hehehehe...

phile 01-05-2005 11:37 AM

I don't see anything pretty or elegant about it. It should've been the GT that turned into a convertible.

Beltfed 01-05-2005 12:12 PM


Originally Posted by phile
I don't see anything pretty or elegant about it. It should've been the GT that turned into a convertible.

I suspect that will come eventually (next is the GT styled sedan), if Bentley builds this car it will be a big buck item.......probably in the $300k+ range.

This car is a true Bentley, the GT to me really isn't and its obvious after looking at one.

HellaShookOne 01-05-2005 12:24 PM

That is awesome. Takes droptop to a new level :ecstatic:
Im picking one of these up from the dealer soon :jk:

charliemike 01-05-2005 12:43 PM

Too bad Tyson is broke. I'm sure he'd be good for six or seven.

:)

bgsm1th 01-05-2005 12:47 PM


Originally Posted by HellaShookOne
That is awesome. Takes droptop to a new level :ecstatic:
Im picking one of these up from the dealer soon :jk:

Yes, from our local Twin Cities Bentley dealership..... :ponder:
I am glad to see an Arnage drop as opposed to a GT drop...much more elegant, I love the GT, but to me it doesn't have those TRUE Bentley lines to it like this one...

B

Zoot 01-05-2005 05:03 PM

LOVE IT!!!! but why didn't they just call it the Azure?

nandowong 01-06-2005 10:46 AM

:drool:

goldmemberer 01-06-2005 11:41 AM

The interior is fucking garish. I don't like the interior one bit. Also, for as elegant as the exterior shape is, that color sucks and those tailpipes are out of place.

Dan Martin 01-06-2005 12:00 PM


Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
Elegant.

:agree:

Nothing like driving around in your livingroom. :D

Beltfed 01-06-2005 12:47 PM


Originally Posted by goldmemberer
The interior is fucking garish. I don't like the interior one bit. Also, for as elegant as the exterior shape is, that color sucks and those tailpipes are out of place.

One thing about Bentley, you can have it your way.......literally any way.

And garish is not the word I would use to describe the interior, its very well layed out and clean. The wood is of top quality and there is really only one color, beige.

Not sure what you mean by the tailpipes.

gavriil 04-29-2005 10:02 AM

Drop the ‘concept’ - - Source: Autoweek


As we predicted, that Arnage Drophead Coupe concept Bentley revealed at the Los Angeles auto show in January (Jan. 17) is going into production early next year. The range-topping four-seat convertible, successor to the Azure, gets a 6.75-liter, 450-hp, 645-lb-ft twin-turbo V8 under the hood, and a roof that drops in less than 30 seconds. Just how big of a hole this will burn in your checkbook will be announced closer to delivery next spring.


car_lost 04-29-2005 03:05 PM

wow, that thing is beautiful.

Beltfed 04-29-2005 03:25 PM

Glad to see it going into production, no surprise there......... will cost every dime of $300k (give or take a little).

About as pimp as a car can get.

Python2121 04-29-2005 09:00 PM

very elegant i just dont like the interior

zeroday 04-30-2005 02:46 PM


Originally Posted by goldmemberer
The interior is fucking garish. I don't like the interior one bit. Also, for as elegant as the exterior shape is, that color sucks and those tailpipes are out of place.

:no: :no: and :no:

gorgeous car. absolutely awesome.

SpeedyV6 04-30-2005 03:16 PM

I prefer the Continental Coupe. This is too retro for my tastes.

heyitsme 04-30-2005 06:32 PM

Interior wood looks gaudy, and the exterior head/tail lights don't look great either.

think this is very nice
https://www.fantasycars.com/sedans/misc/arnaget3.jpg

phile 05-01-2005 03:24 PM

^^^ Looks way better than the wood interior.

bgsm1th 05-02-2005 07:59 AM

Love or hate the interior, it's a Bentley, wood is what they do.
Don't get me wrong, I love the interior of the Arnage T, but the wood isn't that bad either. I do like the wood interior better with black leather, but I'd still take the tan ;)

B

Beltfed 10-31-2005 05:33 PM

Bentley Arnage Blue Train Series

http://www.netcarshow.com/bentley/20...llpaper_01.jpg

http://www.netcarshow.com/bentley/20...llpaper_05.jpg

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http://www.netcarshow.com/bentley/20...llpaper_07.jpg

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Bentley celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Blue Train Race

Crewe, 31st October 2005 - Some 75 years since the adventurer and Le Mans winner Woolf Barnato raced and beat the famous Blue Train on its journey across France, Bentley Motors and its coach building division Mulliner are celebrating his achievement with a powerful, distinctive and luxurious grand tourer based on its flagship four-door saloon: the Arnage Blue Train Series.

In specification, the Blue Train Series Arnage features the 450bhp version of Bentley's remarkable 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, allied to the chassis and suspension set-up of the refined and supple Arnage R. With a 0-60mph acceleration of 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 168mph the Blue Train Series Arnage has the performance to satisfy the most demanding of drivers. A mountainous 645lb ft of torque (875Nm) available at 3250rpm means that the Bentley's performance is instantly accessible.

Externally, the Arnage Blue Train Series is distinguished by its 19" seven-spoke alloy wheels, sunroof, chrome radiator shell, chrome mirror caps and quadruple exhaust tailpipes. Both front and rear bumpers are designed specifically for the Arnage Blue Train Series, with stainless steel matrix mesh to the front bumper cooling ducts. In homage to the slatted bonnet of the original 'Blue Train' Bentley Speed Six, Bentley's design team has specified vertical slatted vents, painted in body colour, behind the trailing edge of the front wheel arches. The Blue Train Arnage will carry the black winged 'B' inside and out, as the distinguishing mark of the most powerful and performance-focused Bentleys, and will also have Blue Train badging on the front wing and door aperture treadplates. A 'privacy' rear backlight may also be specified, another feature which echoes the coachwork of Barnato's 1930s coupé.

The interior is equally distinctive. All instrument and dial faces are black, and the centre console features a subtle Bentley Blue Train badge. Mulliner's meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the veneer waistrails, which feature chrome inlay with winged 'B' badges, and the 'Blue Train' embroidered headrests, in a coordinating thread colour. Other special elements of the interior specification are the wood and hide steering wheel, additional wood veneer panels on the doors and contrast piping on the seats.

A limited number of the Blue Train Series will be produced, the majority being intended for the USA, and all orders have already been filled.

"I am delighted with the Arnage Blue Train Series," said Derek Davies, Brand Director, Arnage and Mulliner, "The engineers and craftsmen of Bentley Mulliner have created an exceptionally desirable car, and a fitting tribute to Woolf Barnato's amazing achievement. In doing so, Bentley Mulliner has created another unique chapter to the Bentley story."

Earlier this month, the first model in the series joined the original 'Blue Train' Speed Six, now owned by Bentley enthusiasts Bruce and Jolene McCaw, along with other historically significant Bentley cars in a 75th Anniversary tour from Cannes to London, following Barnato's original route. Participants enjoyed a more leisured approach to the journey than that taken by Woolf Barnato, with attractions such as wine-tasting, overnight stops and gastronomic meals at chateaux en route.
http://www.netcarshow.com

stangg172004 10-31-2005 06:17 PM

still looks like shit...

titan 10-31-2005 06:20 PM


Originally Posted by stangg172004
still looks like shit...

Are you serious??? That car is the shit, and it looks great doing it.

chungkopi 10-31-2005 06:25 PM

:thumbsup:

bgsm1th 11-01-2005 10:34 AM

So they are continuing with the Arnage along with the Continental Flying Spur?

https://acurazine.com/forums/showthr...hlight=bentley

I am assuming that the Arnage will continue to be considered their "Flagship" sedan?

magneto112 11-01-2005 11:28 AM

yep. Flying Spur is the entry level Bentley sedan.

65 Fury Convert 11-01-2005 11:30 AM


Originally Posted by titan
Are you serious??? That car is the shit, and it looks great doing it.

:werd: Amazing car!

AsianRage 11-01-2005 12:52 PM

Ultra :pimp:

jwong77 11-01-2005 05:08 PM


Originally Posted by stangg172004
still looks like shit...

Maybe your not seeing it right since your 95.

stangg172004 11-01-2005 05:34 PM


Originally Posted by AsianRage
Ultra :pimp:

hell ya its pimp, but IMO i think its not a good looking car....

leftride 11-01-2005 05:37 PM

:pimp: but the steering wheel looks a little outta place in the leather and woodgrain environment.

Doom878 11-02-2005 02:54 PM

That first Blue Train pic is a wallpaper now. :drool:

phile 11-02-2005 03:22 PM


Originally Posted by magneto112
yep. Flying Spur is the entry level Bentley sedan.

Which seems odd to me, cause I think the Flying Spur looks more stately than the Arnage.

Beltfed 11-02-2005 03:29 PM


Originally Posted by phile
Which seems odd to me, cause I think the Flying Spur looks more stately than the Arnage.

Really? I disagree.........the CFS is nice, but looks like a big Phaeton with a CGT nose treatment.

An Arnage in person is like a big regal f*you statement. Don't get that vibe from a CFS.

http://www.rbmexchange.com/images/ve.../MB3111(1).JPG

phile 11-02-2005 03:43 PM


Originally Posted by Beltfed

An Arnage in person is like a big regal f*you statement. Don't get that vibe from a CFS.

:rofl:

titan 11-02-2005 07:03 PM


Originally Posted by Beltfed
Really? I disagree.........the CFS is nice, but looks like a big Phaeton with a CGT nose treatment.

An Arnage in person is like a big regal f*you statement. Don't get that vibe from a CFS.

http://www.rbmexchange.com/images/ve.../MB3111(1).JPG

Are you serious? The Phaeton and Flying Spur look nothing alike. You make it sound like it's a lame rebadge or something... The Flying spur is extremely stately, as your pic shows.

Beltfed 11-02-2005 08:18 PM


Originally Posted by titan
Are you serious? The Phaeton and Flying Spur look nothing alike. You make it sound like it's a lame rebadge or something... The Flying spur is extremely stately, as your pic shows.

It's not a lame rebadge, but the two look similar (not the same) in side profile from the A to C pillar imo.

Regardless, the CFS like the CGT are nice.....but they are not real Bentley's (down to the VW steering wheel).

The Arnage is a real Bentley, the upcoming Bentley Arnage Drophead Vert is a real Bentley.

Extremely stately? You and I have different views of what makes something stately.

bgsm1th 11-03-2005 10:40 AM


Originally Posted by titan
Are you serious? The Phaeton and Flying Spur look nothing alike. You make it sound like it's a lame rebadge or something... The Flying spur is extremely stately, as your pic shows.


While being very luxurious, I see the Flying Spur as a "sporty" sedan by Bentley. Just as the CGT is a sporty coupe by Bentley. You want to push the car at all points to see what it can do. (And rightfully so)
The Arnage is class, refinement and comfort. And while maintaining an exceptional powerplant, it is more of a "drive slow for all to see" car, as will the future Drophead. :yum:
The Arnage demands more respect than the Flying Spur, which will subsequently receive respect regardless.
They are both top-notch cars, without question, but the more finely appointed features of the Arnage is why it remains the "flagship".

:2cents:

titan 11-03-2005 10:59 AM


Originally Posted by bgsm1th
While being very luxurious, I see the Flying Spur as a "sporty" sedan by Bentley. Just as the CGT is a sporty coupe by Bentley. You want to push the car at all points to see what it can do. (And rightfully so)
The Arnage is class, refinement and comfort. And while maintaining an exceptional powerplant, it is more of a "drive slow for all to see" car, as will the future Drophead. :yum:
The Arnage demands more respect than the Flying Spur, which will subsequently receive respect regardless.
They are both top-notch cars, without question, but the more finely appointed features of the Arnage is why it remains the "flagship".

:2cents:

Rightttt... That was my point. We're in agreement. I was responding to a statement that suggested that the CFS was just a Phaeton with different skin, and that it wasn't stately. All I was saying was that the CFS oozes class also. Look back, and you'll see that I think the Arnage is the cats meow, and that it's truly a flagship.

bgsm1th 11-03-2005 11:30 AM


Originally Posted by titan
Rightttt... That was my point. We're in agreement. I was responding to a statement that suggested that the CFS was just a Phaeton with different skin, and that it wasn't stately. All I was saying was that the CFS oozes class also. Look back, and you'll see that I think the Arnage is the cats meow, and that it's truly a flagship.

Glad we agree :thumbsup:
Though I do have to admit, the Phaeton does look SOMEWHAT similar to that of the Flying Spur...
I bet they even share a few of the same parts...
That said Arnage>CFS>Phaeton :co:

titan 11-03-2005 01:09 PM

^The definitely share parts, but you don't see most of them. I don't know... maybe i'm looking at the CFS with rose colored glasses on, because I still think it's an absolutely awesome car.

bgsm1th 11-03-2005 01:31 PM


Originally Posted by titan
I think it's an absolutely awesome car.

:thumbsup: As do I :D

gavriil 02-09-2006 10:26 AM

Next Gen. Bentley Arnage News
 
A Driver’s Car - - By TONY LEWIN | AUTOMOTIVE NEWS - - Source: Autoweek


Bentley will explore lightweight construction techniques for the replacement of its flagship Arnage ultra-luxury sedan.

The future new model will compete with the Rolls-Royce Phantom and Mercedes-Benz Maybach at the very top of the luxury market, so it will be very sporting, despite its size and status.

“Bentley is the sporting alternative at that higher price too,” said Dirk van Braeckel, head of design at Bentley, told Automotive News Europe. Bentley is part of the Volkswagen group. “This is what will really differentiate us from the other cars. Ours will be a real driver’s car.”

The car would be more aerodynamic, more muscular and make a stronger statement, van Braeckel said. “Being a driver-focused car, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a long limousine or be focused on the rear.”

Asked whether the new car would be capable of more than 300 kph, like the Continental GT and Flying Spur, van Braeckel said: “Being a worthy Bentley, it would have to.”

He added: “But it would also have to be a very personal, hand-built, commission-oriented type of car, like the Arnage is today. For the Arnage customer, his car is more of a castle than a house.”

Bentley’s brand values are still the same as in the past, but they had been strengthened by the success of the Continental GT and Flying Spur, he said. “We gauge what we do in terms of our bloodline cars, but we don’t do retro.”

This year, Bentley will launch two new cabriolets – the new Azure and the open version of the Continental.


titan 02-09-2006 11:11 AM

... good news. Looking forward to seeing it.

Yumcha 09-02-2006 04:57 PM

2007 Bentley Arnage
 
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-20...p-1280x960.jpg
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-20...e-1280x960.jpg
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-20...e-1280x960.jpg
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-20...e-1280x960.jpg
http://www.seriouswheels.com/pics-20...e-1280x960.jpg

Press release...


Bentley Motors continues the intensive development of its flagship Arnage range with the introduction of a major programme of powertrain and chassis enhancements for the 2007 Model Year. The Arnage’s renowned 6.75-litre V8 engine now develops up to 500bhp and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission benefiting performance, driving dynamics and refinement. The powertrain changes are complemented by subtle exterior, interior and under-bonnet design cues.

Key to this performance increase is the most powerful version of Bentley’s legendary V8 engine ever built at the company’s headquarters in Crewe, England. In the performance-oriented Arnage T model, the revised twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces a staggering 500bhp and 1000Nm of torque – an 11percent increase in power and a 14 percent increase in torque over the outgoing model. Twinned with the latest six-speed ZF automatic transmission, which uses state-of-the-art computer management, performance and refinement are optimised at all speeds. In the Arnage R and RL models the new engine is boosted from 400 to 450bhp, while torque climbs from 835 to 875Nm.

“The 2007 Model Year Arnage range is clear evidence of our intent to ensure Bentley’s flagship model remains at the forefront of technology and delivers the performance, refinement and luxury that every Bentley customer demands,” explains Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing.

The 500bhp Arnage T is a true driver’s car with much higher performance and delivers an even more rewarding driving experience. The improvements to the refinement and comfort of the 450bhp Arnage R are equally striking, while the long-wheelbase RL shares the same increased power output together with major improvements to the rear passenger cabin.

“Two years ago we introduced major upgrades to the Arnage’s chassis, steering and brakes,” says Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering. “Those improvements meant the car could easily handle a significant increase in power and torque, so work began on this important powertrain programme.”

The 2007 Model Year Arnage also benefits from safety, interior and design improvements. Every Arnage now has a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, rSAP Bluetooth integrated telephone system and improved driver ergonomics as standard. Additionally, new wheel, exterior paint colour and interior trim options are available, as well as an optional retractable ‘Flying B’ bonnet mascot.

The new 2007 Model Year Bentley Arnage range will go on sale from September 2006.

Overview

Uprated 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine in Arnage T produces 500bhp and 1000Nm torque, thanks to new low inertia turbochargers and roller tappet system.

Arnage R and RL models uprated to 450bhp and 875Nm of torque.

Latest six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts.

New Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected.

New Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard to all Arnage models.

Improved driver ergonomics thanks to 25mm increase in length of steering column and in vertical steering wheel adjustment.

Exterior design styling changes includes new dark finish to Arnage T front radiator and bumper grilles, standardised bright chrome finish to R and RL grilles, and Bentley ‘B’ badges on the D-pillars.

Underbonnet styling now features a black crackle finish to the Arnage T’s inlet manifold, embossed Bentley logo on plenum chambers and new ‘6¾ LITRE TWIN TURBO’ engine plaques.

Interior design updates include new hide-trimmed gearlever and chrome gearlever bezel providing access to semi-automatic transmission function.

New Thin Film Technology driver information panel displays more comprehensive and clearly accessible information.

Arnage RL model receives additional standard specification including rear centre armrest bottle cooler, veneered rear centre cushion box, rear rSAP master telephone system, and reversing camera (US, EU, Australia and New Zealand markets only).

Engine

Bentley’s 6.75-litre V8 engine is the centrepiece of the 2007 Model Year Arnage development programme. This remarkable engine, the fundamental design of which has served Bentley models proudly for nearly five decades, has been extensively re-engineered to provide, in Arnage T specification, 500bhp and 1000Nm of torque - figures that ensure that the legendary Bentley wave of torque is even more astonishing than before. Top speed of the Arnage T has risen from 168mph/270km/h to 179mph/288km/h, while the 450bhp Arnage R and RL’s maximum speed increases by 13mph/21km/h to 168mph/270km/h.

When the first V8 engine was built in the1950s, the design brief unwittingly benefited later generations of Bentley engineers. It was a very forward thinking design with an all-aluminium construction, a five main-bearing crankshaft, and a well-supported camshaft. The steps taken then laid the foundations for the longevity of the engine.

“People might raise an eyebrow when they are told that the V8 engine in their 2007 Model Year Arnage was first used by Bentley in 1959,” says Bentley Motors’ Director, Powertrain and Chassis, Brian Gush. “But the reality is the basic design was so good that we have been able to continually improve it for nearly 50 years.

“One of the reasons the engine has evolved so successfully is the position of the exhaust valves, high in the cylinder head, originally designed for rapid heat dissipation to help engine cooling. Decades later it meant that we could heat the catalytic converter due to the short path from valves to catalysts, which benefits exhaust emissions. This is just one of the reasons why this brilliant engine lives on today.”

That first 6.25-litre engine produced around 200 horsepower – the new 2007 Model Year 6.75-litre V8 has more than twice that output, with 500bhp and 1000Nm of torque for the Arnage T. It was the introduction of turbocharging and intercooling in the early 1980s that saw step-change increases in the V8’s performance, and the latest engine programme is no different. Two new low-inertia turbochargers operate with far greater efficiency at lower engine speeds – they reach maximum turbine speed in half the time of the previous unit – thereby ensuring significantly reduced turbo lag and that prodigious wave of torque at any revs.

Furthermore, a reprofiled camshaft with an all-new roller tappet system provides revised valve timing and substantially improved refinement. These changes also deliver for increased power, enhanced durability and ensure compliance with European EU IV and US LEV II standards. Although the 2007MY 6.75-litre engine produces around 300 horsepower more than its 1959 predecessor, its fuel consumption is only 60 percent of the original and thanks to its advanced fuel injection and exhaust controls, its emissions output is an incredible 99 percent lower than Bentley’s first V8.

Drivetrain & Chassis

Such an impressive increase in power and torque is, however, of little benefit unless the powertrain is capable of delivering it to the driven wheels. For this reason Bentley’s engineering team opted to introduce the latest six-speed ZF automatic transmission to the Arnage range. This state-of-the-art system offers two further ratios than the previous gearbox and has several key advantages over its predecessor:

The wider range of ratios is specifically tuned to each Arnage model, ensuring greater flexibility, response and refinement for every model.

Performance feel is also improved by using a sophisticated locking torque converter system which provides a more rapid response to throttle inputs.

Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Semi-Automatic) allow the driver to take full advantage of the new gearbox. Semi-Automatic mode is accessed by placing the gearlever into the sequential manual gear-selector gate, where a new ratio can be engaged simply by pushing the lever forwards or backwards.

A sophisticated electronic management system plays a major role in providing fast yet smooth gearshifts regardless of how the car is being driven. Previously the Arnage’s engine and transmission were governed by independent electronic systems; in the 2007 Model Year, an uprated Bosch computer-controlled management system ensures that both parts work as a single unit to produce a supremely refined yet highly responsive drivetrain.

“The new ZF gearbox gives us a different dimension in transmission control,” says Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering. “Our main objective was to get the engine and transmission working together enabling us to transmit every ounce of power. Using the lock-up in all gears eliminates what we call the ‘rubber-band’ effect – the surge of engine speed without a corresponding acceleration of the car – and gives much more immediate connection of throttle input to road speed.

“As the engine speed approaches the point at which a gearshift is due, it signals to the transmission that it is time to shift, so the ratio changes are much quicker - it feels significantly faster from the driver’s seat. Similarly, when the gearbox is ready to change up it asks the engine to reduce the torque just for the period of the shift, which adds to the refinement.”

Another important development for the 2007 Model Year Arnage range is the separation of the sports suspension and sports gearbox settings, allowing the driver to select their preference for each system independently – via a ‘Sport’ button on the dashboard for the suspension and by positioning the gearlever for the transmission’s Sport mode.

A comprehensive chassis tuning programme was instigated alongside the powertrain updates to ensure the Arnage’s chassis comfortably handles the additional performance. Refinements to the ESP logic system allow more spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety.

The Traction Control system is extensively recalibrated with the aim of avoiding unnecessary reduction in engine torque. The ESP system now monitors the car’s overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the engine to be fully exploited.

“We don't believe in creating power and then taking it away,” says Brian Gush, Director, Powertrain and Chassis. “This new system allows the driver a lot more freedom to feel where the traction limit is without ever getting into trouble. The traction control is much more progressive and proportional – you can drift the car with some wheelspin but it never lets you get in any trouble. It is a calibration which keeps the spirited driver in mind.”

Design

Following the detailed design updates made to the 2005 Model Year Arnage, the latest models receive further exterior styling changes.

‘The revisions we made to the Arnage series two years ago gave the range exactly the sort of contemporary yet authentic Bentley feel that it needed,” says Head of Exterior Design, Raul Pires. “Now with big increases in power and performance we wanted to add some subtle design cues to reflect the differences between the Arnage models.”

The performance intent of the Arnage T is underlined by the addition of a new dark finish to its front radiator and bumper grilles. A standardised bright chrome finish is applied to the R and RL grilles while Bentley ‘B’ badges have been applied to the D-pillars on all models.

To highlight the superb feat of engineering beneath the Arnage’s bonnet, a newly styled engine bay leaves no doubt as to the potency of the car. A black crackle finish has been applied to the Arnage T’s inlet manifold, while every model displays an embossed Bentley logo on the turbocharger plenum chambers and new ‘6¾ LITRE TWIN TURBO’ engine plaques.

Additional optional extras include a 19-inch six-spoke disc wheel for the R and RL models, and 19-inch five-spoke ‘Blade’ sports wheel for the Arnage T. Also available across the range is the famous winged ‘B’ mascot, which saw a welcome return this year on the Diamond Series Arnage. The iconic mascot – which can retract neatly into the grille surround – was originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby and first used on the 1930 Bentley 8 Litre.

Interior design updates include a new hide-trimmed gearlever, chrome gearlever bezel, and new Thin Film Technology driver information panel to display more comprehensive and clearly accessible information. The Arnage RL model receives additional standard specification including a rear centre armrest bottle cooler, veneered rear centre cushion box, rear rSAP Bluetooth master telephone system and reversing camera (US, EU, Australia and New Zealand markets only).

Conclusion

The significant upgrades to both engine and transmission mean every new Arnage will not just match customer expectations but surpass them on all fronts, as Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley Motors’ Chairman and Chief Executive explains:

“These important powertrain enhancements reaffirm the very essence of the Bentley Arnage, offering our customers an absolutely unique blend of seamless power and torque which produces storming performance when you demand it and blissfully relaxed cruising when you don’t.”



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