While there are many luxury brands across the world, none quite compare to Bentley. Vehicles from this company are known for how rare and prestigious they are, especially in the United Kingdom and the United States. Keep reading to find out more about Bentley’s history, the models they currently have for sale, and more.
How the Company Got Started
In 1919, Bentley Motors Limited was founded by W. O. Bentley in London. By 1921, the company had released their first vehicle – the 3-Liter. This car was known for having advanced features that shocked the automotive industry, a crossflow cylinder, twin carburettors, and twin spark plugs. The likes of these have never been seen before, which propelled Bentley into fame within their first few years of business. Other cars made during this era followed the trend of naming them with their liter number. Examples are the 4.5 liter, 6.5 liter, and 8-liter.
Bentley’s endeavors did not end in the factory; they have had a long history on the racetrack, which led them to even more success. Shortly after they were incorporated, the company had several victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. They won in 1924 and consecutively and from 1927 to 1930.
In 1931, a major shift happened for the company. Rolls-Royce acquired a majority of the Bentley company, meaning that all vehicle production was now partnered with their new partner company. Any Bentley made during this time shared Rolls-Royce parts and body styles. While this was disappointing for some customers, others loved the merger.
Events like the Great Depression and World War II caused some trouble for the company, decreasing the need for such luxurious and expensive cars for most people. While the demand may have decreased, that did not stop Bentley from pursuing the creation of new vehicles and partnerships. However, when the company tried to develop a new aero engine, they hit a financial crisis. Bentley was bought out by Vickers in 1980 and then by Volkswagen in 1998, who they are still owned by.
Bentley cars are beloved by some of the most famous people in the world, including Queen Elizabeth II of England. They are known for their class, style, and grace – as well as their speed and ambiance.
The Logo
Bentley has had the same logo since their company was founded, which is a rare find in the automotive industry – a place where marketing and branding efforts are constantly changing. The logo is a solid black, featuring a pair of wings around the letter “B” set in a black circle. According to 1000 Logos, the company wanted to emphasize what their vehicles stood for, luxury and “unearthly potential.” The logo was designed by Frederick Gordon Cosby and was later used as a model for Aston Martin’s branding.
Sales
Bentley has always been successful no matter what market they are in. In the North American market, Bentley has been regarded as one of the most popular high-tier luxury brands that is owned and operated by Volkswagen.
According to statistics from CarSalesBase, the company has sold 37,538 units since 2003. While their sales in 2003 was only 437 vehicles, they experienced a massive increase in growth percentage by 2004. Their sales jumped from a few hundred to over 2,000 within a year. Although a major decrease was seen between 2008 and 2009, sales were on a steady increase until 2014 when sales began to decline by very small amounts.
Many Different Models
Bentley has three different ranges of cars. Each of these ranges is equivalent to a model, which can come in several different variations.
Here’s a list of the ones currently available:
Model | Avg Asking Price | Picture | Description |
Used: $138,888 New: $317,980 |  | The Bentayga is Bentley’s only SUV model. It was “designed to inspire exploration in its purest form,” and features “comfort, capability, and exhilaration behind the wheel.” It comes in four different styles: the Speed, S, V8, and Hybrid. Each model features a 10.9” touchscreen, 22” wheels, and a 3D tail-lamp. | |
Used: $109,885 New: $279,900 |  | The Continental range is known for being “a compelling statement of performance, luxury, and automotive beauty.” This sedan is available in the convertible and coupe. Variations include the GT Mulliner, GT Mulliner Convertible, the GT Speed, GT Speed Convertible, GT V8, and GT V8 Convertible. Each model features a W12 engine, the Pirelli Noise Cancellation System, and aerodynamic design. | |
Used: $79,888 New: $299,950 |  | The Flying Spur range is one of the most well-known high class vehicles in the world. They are known for “effortless performance, sculpted design, [and] masterful technology.” Flying Spurs are available in a Mulliner, Standard, and Hybrid option. Each can have either a 6.0 litre W12, 4.0 litre V8, or the 2/9 litre V6 engine. |
Most Popular Model
In the United States, the Bentayga is the most popular Bentley model; it is also among the top most expensive luxury SUV models in the country.
Some other notable Bentley models that are not currently in production are the Turbo-R, Brooklands, Mulsanne, Arnage, Mark VI, Eight Litre, Blower, and Speed 6.
Geographic Popularity
Bentley operates out of two factories: one in Crewe, England and another in Dresden, Germany. Other parts for Bentley vehicles are made at other factories other factories that are managed by Volkswagen in Zwickau and Bratislava.
Sustainability
Bentley has always been known as a company that prioritizes promoting sustainability in its manufacturing procedures and policies. In 1999, the company was certified to ISO 14001 environmental management standard. It was the first automotive site to do this, allowing Bentley to mark their spot as one of the most eco-friendly auto companies of its day. By 2019, the company became certified Carbon Trust to achieve the PAS 2060 carbon neutral standard. Here are some of Bentley’s other accomplishments:
- Reduced energy consumption by 54% per car
- Decreased CO2 emissions by 84% in total
- Reduced waste water by 99% in total
- Reduced VOC emissions by 36% in total
In England, recent talks of legislation that will eliminate hybrid, plug-in, and fuel-emitting vehicles has led many automobile companies to reevaluate their plans for the future. Bentley has pledged to be an all-electric company by 2030. They also hope to be plastic-neutral by 2025, which is a huge stride in the manufacturing world.
Safety
Bentley has always had some of the most up-to-date safety features on their vehicles. From early on in the company’s history, safety and innovation were extremely important to the engineers and designers who were making Bentley models. Here are just a few of the safety features that are on 2021 Bentley models:
- Anti-Lock Brakes
- Stability Control
- Front-Impact Airbags
- Side-Impact Airbags
- Knee Airbags
- Pretensioners
- Security Systems
Looking to sell a Bentley for Cash?
After learning all about how valuable Bentley cars are, are you looking to sell your old one? If so, let us help you. Zippy Cash for Cars can help you get the best value for your money with our services, leaving you with enough funds to purchase a brand new Bentley with ease. For more information on how to sell your Bentley with us, contact us here.
All pictures are from www.bentleymotors.com.
