Bentley Azure classic cars for sale

History and Introduction of the Bentley Azure

Bentley introduced the Azure in 1995 as a convertible variant of the Continental R, marking a significant evolution in the marque’s post-Rolls-Royce era. Debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, the Azure combined continental flair with British craftsmanship—a result not just of Bentley's engineers in Crewe, but also of Pininfarina’s Italian expertise. The model offered a rare blend of traditional wood and sumptuous leather interiors, underscored by credible performance and unmistakable presence. Production of the first generation ran until 2003, punctuated by bespoke editions and special requests, highlighting the Azure's coachbuilt ethos. The Azure returned in 2006, this time based on the Arnage, and continued the tradition of luxury open-air motoring until 2009, leveraging ongoing development under Volkswagen Group stewardship.

Model History

The Azure’s first series emerged from the Bentley Continental R chassis and encompassed mainly the period from 1995 to 2003. It was equipped with a 6.75-litre V8, initially offering between 360 and 389 hp, channelled through a GM-sourced 4-speed automatic box and rear-wheel drive. Production was extremely limited—about 1,400 units. The Mulliner-commissioned sub-series further emphasized rarity and customization, with high-performance and tailor-made interiors.

The second generation, arriving in 2006, shifted to the Arnage’s updated underpinnings, featuring significant enhancements in power (up to 507 hp in the Azure T) and refinement, as well as a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. Special versions like the Azure T and extremely limited “Final Series” concluded the run in 2009, cementing the Azure’s reputation as one of the most individualistic Bentley convertibles ever built.

Highlights from the Bentley Azure Series

The Azure’s distinguishing traits include its Pininfarina-developed convertible roof, one of the largest on any production car, and its ability to seat four adults in true comfort. The first-generation Azure featured a hand-finished wood and leather interior with extensive custom options, from unique materials to bespoke colour schemes. Exterior touches included aluminium wheels up to 19 inches, wide arches on later Mulliner editions, and signature Bentley brightwork. The second-generation Azure raised the bar in terms of performance, including twin-turbo engine options and more modern safety features such as side airbags and electronically controlled suspension.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Several editions of the Azure reached the market in extremely small numbers, accentuating the model’s exclusivity. The Azure Mulliner, produced from 1999 to 2003 in only 155 units, offered customers extensive personalisation combined with uprated 440 hp engines and sportier chassis components. The Azure T, built for the final model years, deployed the 507 hp twin-turbo V8 and executed numerous unique interior and exterior modifications. Rare examples include Final Series and Symbolic Editions, distinguished by their ultimate luxury and craftsmanship, often featuring unique veneers, interior insignia, special alloy wheels, and individual paint or leather specifications.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Every Azure was propelled by a 6.75-litre V8, initially single-turbocharged, then upgraded to twin-turbo units in the later series. Power output ranged from 360 hp in early cars, rising to 389, then 440 in Mulliner versions, and up to 507 hp in the Azure T. Four-speed automatics prevailed until 2003, replaced by six-speed units from 2006 onwards. Despite its size and weight, the Azure delivered capable acceleration and balanced handling, ideally tailored for long-distance cruising rather than spirited cornering. Later Mulliner and T models provided stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and reduced body roll compared to standard variants. - Azure Mulliner (1999–2003): 440 hp V8, uprated chassis, limited to 155 units.

• Azure T (2008–2009): 507 hp twin-turbo V8, six-speed automatic, highest performance specification.
• Standard Azure Serie I: 360–389 hp, classic Bentley grand tourer character, most common body style.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Azure’s Pininfarina-devised soft top retracted electrically in seconds while preserving a clean, pillarless profile. Interiors embraced wide use of Connolly leather, deep-pile carpet, and book-matched walnut, with almost unlimited colour and material configurations available—a hallmark of Bentley’s bespoke service. Later models extended the palette to include diamond-quilted seats, polished metal badges, and high-gloss carbon fibre or wood trim. Exteriors sported signature Bentley grilles, muscular arches (especially in Final/Mulliner-Series), 17”–19” alloy wheels, and bright chrome accents. Accessory and equipment highlights included massaging seats, Naim or Alpine sound, and complex multi-zone climate systems, reinforcing Azure’s standing as a touring convertible uncompromised by comfort.

Other Noteworthy Details

Numerous celebrity owners and frequent appearances in film and media underline the Azure’s appeal as a status symbol. Personalisation was limited only by imagination—and budget—with most examples leaving the factory to exacting owner specifications.

Summary

The Bentley Azure stands apart as a convertible that seamlessly combines immense power, hand-crafted luxury, rarity, and individuality. Across both generations, it remains a uniquely British grand tourer: powerful, refined, and always tailored for its discerning clientele.