Bentley Motors is one of the leading British automobile manufacturers in the world. The company is known for producing some of the fastest, most luxurious cars in the automotive industry. We all know and adore famous cars like the Continental GT, Bentayga, and Flying Spur. Perhaps, it’s time for us to take you through the history of Bentley motors, the first car produced by them, and why their cars are so expensive. Let’s get straight to it.
Background of Bentley
Founded by W.O. Bentley, Bentley Motors Limited started its automotive venture in 1919 from Cricklewood, London. The company is currently headquartered in Crewe, England, and is widely recognised for producing luxurious sedan, coupes, and SUVs.
In its initial years, Bentley participated in major racing events like the 24 Hours Le Mans and took several titles to its name from 1924 to 1930. The Speed Six by Bentley, was the first iconic racing car that put the company at the forefront of performance cars during its era.
“To build a fast car, a good car, and the best in its class is what we aim for” – Bentley
Post the great depression, in 1968, Bentley Motors was acquired by another leading luxury automaker, Rolls Royce. These companies shared their technology, design ques, and other mechanical components. Though they were competitors, they still thrived together for over 30 years and gained significant popularity as luxury car brands. Later, in 1998, the Volkswagen Group acquired Bentley, and most recently, VW sub-brand Audi took over Bentley operations.
These cars have become so popular in the UAE, resulting in a rise in demand for Bentley car rental in Dubai.
First Bentley Car
Bentley EXP1 was the first car produced by the brand in 1919. Founder W.O. Bentley used his knowledge and expertise from the aircraft industry to build world-class cars. Everything from the 3.0 L 4-cylinder engine to the bodywork and design of the EXP 1 was developed by him.
The car had a lean-long front hood, with slender spoke wheels and two seats. It featured a monobloc engine with four valves for each cylinder, double magnetos and twin spark plugs. This engine produced a total of 100 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 65 mph. The car is now exhibited at Bentley’s headquarters at Crewe for visitors to take a glimpse into the history of this legendary brand.
Who makes Bentley motor cars?
Bentley motors have been owned and managed by the VW group since 1998. Hence, all the production operations and distribution of Bentley automobiles have been overseen by them. In 2022, the management of Bentley was consolidated by Audi, another premium automaker owned by Volkswagen Group.
“Bentley cars showcase artistic designs both on the exterior and the interior.”
Moving forward, the company aims to adopt eco-friendly technology in all their vehicles to create sustainable automobiles. They have also announced the reduction of leather in their cars by using recycled materials.
Top 6 historically popular Bentley models
For over 100 years, Bentley has been producing different cars for various segments. Here are some of the popular models produced by the brand that are highly valuable and rare to find:
- Blower by Bentley
- The Bentley R-Type Continental
- Bentley Flying Spur S1 Continental
- Mark V & VI by Bentley
- Bentley XP 2
- Blue Train by Bentley
- Bentley 8 liter
- The Bentley Blower
Bentley Motors – An iconic British automobile company
Bentley has stood the test of time, overcoming its challenges during the great depression and emerging as a successful automaker. Moving from Rolls Royce, VW to Audi, the company has been associated with some of the largest brands in the automobile industry. From the very first EXP 1 to the more recent Bentayga, Bentley has come a long way in producing refined cars that deliver performance and luxury.
