GRAND BENTLEY | Grand Bentley
GRAND BENTLEY
A Car That Embodies the Bentley Spirit in Its Purest Form
Bentleyhas announced the release of its finest new car, the "Grand Bentley," this summer, representing a complete rebirth of the marque.
By Giraffe
An Exceptional Car for Every Occasion
This new model, boasting "exceptional driving performance" and described by Bentley as "an exceptional car for every occasion," will have its design, engineering, and manufacturing entirely undertaken at Bentley's home in Crewe, England.
The phrase "exceptional in all respects on the road" used to announce this new car is attributed to Noel van Raalte, Bentley's first customer, who said, "I acquired my Bentley because of its exceptional performance on the road. I could not wish for anything more..."
The citation of this comment, made in October 1921, eloquently suggests that this new car is poised to be the most pure embodiment of the Bentley spirit.
BRAND HISTORY
"I want to build a car that is the fastest and most valuable in its class." These are the words of Walter Owen Bentley, the founder of BENTLEY MOTORS, affectionately known as “W.O.”
W.O., who had gained experience as an engineer from a young age, initially worked not with automobiles but with steam locomotives. During his time off, he participated in motorcycle races, which turned his interest towards engines. After leaving his post, he began developing racing engines in earnest after the First World War.
In the 1920s, he competed in races both in Britain and abroad. Notably, at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the "Bentley Boys" achieved five victories between 1924 and 1930, a span of seven years, cementing the marque's reputation. However, the company's financial situation was precarious, and in 1931, it was acquired by Rolls-Royce, barely managing to preserve its name.
Rolls-Royce's control lasted for the next 67 years, but a turning point arrived in 1998. Volkswagen acquired the Bentley name and the Crewe factory in England. This allowed Bentley to forge its own path, separate from Rolls-Royce. Beginning with the "Continental GT," the introduction of new models such as the "Continental Flying Spur" and "Continental GTC" marked a successful resurgence in the luxury car market. Furthermore, in 2003, Bentley secured its sixth Le Mans victory, the first in 73 years.