Bentley Azure

Nothing compares to a Bentley Azure cruising along the stunning coastal roads of the Côte d’Azur. Picture the dream scenario, but for this magnificent 6.8 Convertible Series II, it was once an everyday reality. The Azure was originally delivered in Monaco, the glamorous jewel of the South European coast, as confirmed by its original documentation. Since entering Dutch ownership in 2017, it has had just one owner. That fortunate individual had this British pride meticulously cared for and maintained by a renowned specialist, explaining its unique condition. Combined with the astonishingly low mileage, this makes it an unparalleled object for discerning collectors. Collectors with style, naturally.

History
Bentley launched the Azure in 1995: a luxury top-tier convertible with seating for four adults. The first-generation Azure shared its platform with the Continental R, explaining its generous proportions both inside and out. This brilliantly beautiful example was first registered in 2002, towards the end of the production run, making it a Series II. If there is one place in the world where an exclusive convertible like the Azure feels completely at home, it is Monaco. Its first miles were driven in this luxurious city-state. And the low mileage confirms this: over the past 23 years, it has covered fewer than 21,000 kilometers. That is the only thing modest about this British exotic. Its overall condition is remarkable, truly worthy of a collector’s item. This is largely thanks to its sole Dutch owner, who had the Bentley expertly maintained by Bentley specialist Brabo, and lavished it with an extraordinary amount of care and attention.

Exterior
Looking at its enormous, supremely elegant bodywork, one immediately imagines the Mediterranean. The dark blue metallic paint has a depth as profound as the sea. The pinstripe along the sides is perfectly straight, while the gentle curves of the bodywork flow like serene waves. This is timeless class at its peak. Connoisseurs will immediately recognize the Series II by its modified grille and distinctive logo. Everything about the Bentley Azure is imposing: the ultra-chic, body-matched blue soft top is roughly the size of an average car—and that’s before you even account for the huge front end and the massive rear overhang. This stately classic simply cannot be ignored. Literally.

Interior
Cars today may be innovative, sleek, and modern, but nothing compares to the quality of an old-school Bentley. The exquisite beige leather is as thick as the skin of the British royal family, and the classy woodwork is as timeless as James Bond. Analog gauges, traditional buttons, signature switches, and plentiful chrome accents create a warm welcome and a unique experience aboard this open-top giant. Black leather on the dashboard, along the edges of the center console, and on the middle section of the steering wheel provides just the right contrast for a perfectly balanced ambiance. This is how driving in style should feel.

Engineering & Performance
Perhaps even more classic than its appearance is the drivetrain of the Azure 6.8 Convertible Series II: a further development of the legendary Rolls-Royce-Bentley V8. The Garrett turbocharged specification with intercooler delivers an impressive 408 hp in this series. More than enough to make your teacups rattle, you might think—but even under full acceleration, serenity and calm prevail inside the Bentley. The way this stretched convertible devours the tarmac at high speed seems otherworldly. Only the rushing scenery reminds occupants of just how fast they are moving. For which enthusiast shall we prepare the scones in advance?

Kind regards,
team Prins