Bentley Motors, a British luxury automaker, has long been associated with elegance, sophistication, and performance. Throughout its storied history, Bentley has created some of the world’s most iconic and luxurious vehicles, attracting the attention of wealthy buyers, collectors, and automotive enthusiasts. However, there may be some lesser-known facts about this prestigious brand that you were not aware of. In this article, we will explore ten intriguing aspects of Bentley’s history and achievements that may surprise you.
1. Bentley’s Racing Heritage
Bentley’s racing heritage dates back to its inception in 1919 when founder W.O. Bentley built his first prototype vehicle. With a focus on performance and durability, Bentley quickly made a name for itself in motorsports, particularly in endurance racing. The most notable achievement was Bentley’s domination at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the late 1920s, where the company won the prestigious race four times in a row from 1927 to 1930. This early racing success helped to cement Bentley’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance luxury automobiles.
In 2003, Bentley returned to Le Mans with the Bentley Speed 8, taking first and second place in the iconic endurance race. This triumph marked Bentley’s sixth overall victory at Le Mans and was a testament to the brand’s continued commitment to performance and excellence in motorsports.
2. The “Bentley Boys”
During the 1920s, a group of wealthy British car enthusiasts known as the “Bentley Boys” played a significant role in shaping the brand’s image and reputation. The group, which included the likes of Woolf Barnato, Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin, and Glen Kidston, were not only passionate about Bentley vehicles but also actively participated in motorsports events, often driving their own Bentleys to victory. The Bentley Boys were known for their flamboyant lifestyle and daring exploits on and off the racetrack, which helped to popularize the brand and establish its association with luxury, performance, and adventure.
3. Acquisition by Rolls-Royce
In 1931, during the Great Depression, Bentley faced financial difficulties and was eventually acquired by its rival, Rolls-Royce. The acquisition saw Bentley shift its focus from high-performance vehicles to more luxurious and comfortable models that shared many components with Rolls-Royce cars. This period in Bentley’s history, which lasted until the late 20th century, saw the development of some of the brand’s most iconic luxury models, such as the Bentley S1 and the Bentley Continental R.
4. Volkswagen Group Ownership
In 1998, the Volkswagen Group acquired Bentley Motors, providing the brand with significant investment and resources for research, development, and production. Under Volkswagen’s ownership, Bentley has experienced a resurgence in both sales and prestige, with new models such as the Bentley Continental GT and the Bentley Bentayga redefining the brand’s image and broadening its appeal to a new generation of luxury car buyers.
5. The Bentley Mulsanne’s Unique Connection to the Le Mans Circuit
The Bentley Mulsanne, a flagship luxury saloon, owes its name to the legendary Mulsanne Straight at the Le Mans circuit. This 3.7-mile stretch of track is famous for its high-speed runs and has been the scene of many of Bentley’s greatest racing achievements. By naming its flagship model after this iconic section of the track, Bentley pays tribute to its illustrious racing heritage and reinforces the brand’s commitment to performance and excellence.
6. Bentley’s Commitment to Sustainability
Bentley is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In 2019, the company announced its plans to become the world’s most sustainable luxury automotive manufacturer, with a focus on reducing emissions, increasing energy efficiency, and incorporating sustainable materials into its vehicles. Bentley has made significant progress in recent years, with the introduction of its first plug-in hybrid model, the Bentayga Hybrid, and the announcement of an all-electric Bentley model set to debut by 2025. The brand’s factory in Crewe, England, is also powered by renewable energy sources, further demonstrating Bentley’s dedication to sustainable practices.
7. The Queen’s Bentley State Limousine
In 2002, Bentley was commissioned to create a bespoke State Limousine for Queen Elizabeth II in celebration of her Golden Jubilee. This one-of-a-kind vehicle, based on the Bentley Arnage platform, was designed with input from the Queen herself and features a range of unique modifications to meet her specific requirements. The Bentley State Limousine serves as the official transport for the British monarch and is a testament to Bentley’s craftsmanship, attention to detail, and its status as a symbol of British luxury and prestige.
8. Bentley’s In-house Coachbuilding Division: Mulliner
Bentley’s in-house coachbuilding division, Mulliner, has been responsible for creating some of the brand’s most exclusive and bespoke vehicles. Founded in the 1500s as a saddlery and carriage maker, Mulliner became part of Bentley Motors in 1959. Today, Mulliner continues to create bespoke, handcrafted vehicles that cater to the unique desires and requirements of Bentley’s discerning clientele. From custom paint finishes and luxurious interior materials to one-off bodywork and performance enhancements, Mulliner represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s commitment to personalization and craftsmanship.
9. The Bentley Blower
One of the most iconic and sought-after models in Bentley’s history is the Bentley Blower. Developed in the late 1920s by Sir Henry “Tim” Birkin, one of the famed Bentley Boys, the Blower was a highly modified version of the Bentley 4½ Litre that featured a supercharger, or “blower,” to increase its power output. Although the Blower was not an official factory model and only 50 examples were ever produced, it remains a symbol of Bentley’s racing pedigree and dedication to performance. Today, original Bentley Blowers are extremely rare and valuable, often fetching millions of dollars at auction.
10. The Bentley EXP 100 GT Concept
To celebrate its centenary in 2019, Bentley unveiled the EXP 100 GT concept, a visionary glimpse into the future of luxury and performance. The all-electric concept car features a host of innovative technologies, including advanced autonomous driving capabilities, artificial intelligence, and sustainable materials sourced from 5,000-year-old riverwood and organic leather alternatives. The EXP 100 GT represents Bentley’s vision for the future of luxury mobility and demonstrates the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence.
To conclude, Bentley Motors is a brand steeped in history, performance, and unparalleled luxury. These lesser-known facts about Bentley offer a fascinating insight into the brand’s rich heritage, its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, and its enduring appeal to the world’s wealthy elite. As Bentley continues to push the boundaries of automotive excellence, its prestigious status and reputation are sure to remain firmly intact for generations to come.
