Long-wheelbase luxury sedans are the ultimate expression of luxury travel for buyers who prioritize spaciousness and comfort. Additionally, like a bold gent whose long trench coat commands attention on the street, a long-wheelbase sedan makes a powerful statement. It exudes an aura of success that leaves no room for doubt. One of the best extended-wheelbase luxury sedans 2003 had to offer is the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL pulled from Bentley's Arnage Range, which had become a threat to any car manufacturer with a luxury sedan in their production belt. This 2003 Bentley Arnage RL review explores its features to determine if it still reigns among the best long-wheelbase luxury sedans.
Bentley introduced the first Arnage RL, and today, the automaker describes it as a culmination of world-class coachbuilding that spans generations. Mulliner built each example bespoke to its buyer since the Arnage RL targeted a specific clientele that prefers extra protection while in their car. Bulletproof materials were used throughout the car's construction, and buyers could choose packages for higher protection. Like other 326 Arnage RL examples, the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL was constructed on the same basis and retained the 10-inch extended wheelbase of previous models. Built at the Crewe plant with a strong purpose for luxury, Bentley added 8 of the 10 inches to the rear half of the chassis, resulting in palatial comfort for the back seat passenger while retaining the classic Arnage profile. Did Bentley use a different engine for the 2003 Arnage RL? Read on to find out.
For 2003, Bentley held on to their recently revived 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V8 for the Arnage RL. Its power was rated at a respectable 400 horsepower and 616 lb.ft, enough to propel the hefty 5,853-pound sedan from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 6.9 seconds. The extended wheelbase improved rear traction and stability for this rear-wheel-drive behemoth. Channeling power to the wheels is a 6-speed automatic transmission that Bentley describes as highly engaging. We'll take their word for it since having a manual transmission in a car that would have set you back a quarter of a million dollars in 2003 would have been diabolical.
The 2003 Bentley Arnage RL's cabin is typically what you'd expect in an Arnage or any other Bentley, for that matter. Supple leather cloaks all the seats and is complemented by polished wood accents adding striking contrast. Sure, the cockpit is where any enthusiast would want to be, but in an Arnage RL, true indulgence lies in the rear seats. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, you get palatial legroom, transforming the rear seats into a first-class plane experience. You get to experience full-blown luxury without being deprived of the cabin's amenities, including heated seats, which are just an arm-stretch away.
Mulliner has been making some of the most iconic cars since 1897. Not only are they iconic, but they're also good-looking looking, especially those built in the coachbuilders modernity era. Case in point, the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL. It cuts a striking figure on the road, its long wheelbase giving it a more elegant appeal than standard wheelbase Arnage examples. Mulliner might have built it, but Bentley penned down the design; hence, the automaker's design language flows across every line and curve.
Being a luxury sedan, the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL's tech suite mainly caters to the cabin's occupants. Heated seats are standard throughout, with the fronts offering power adjustments for ultimate relaxation. For entertainment, a 140-watt sound system pampers occupants and features separate controls for rear passengers. In the driver assist and safety features itinerary, you get cruise control, four-wheel ABS, front and rear parking sensors, stability control, and dual front and dual rear side-mounted airbags. These features, and many more, the Arnage RL's commitment to a luxurious and secure driving experience.
While the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL no longer commands the stratospheric prices of its debut, it retains the allure of a proper luxury sedan even amongst today's offerings. Prices typically average $50,000, relatively higher than other Arnage models from the same period. But despite its price, it offers an entry point to Bentley ownership, and if a Bentley Arnage RL has been at the back of your mind, there's no better place to get one than Exotic Car Trader.
The 2003 Bentley Arnage RL offers a unique blend of timeless design, unparalleled craftsmanship, and exclusivity since it's not every day you spot one on the road. Today, like other Arnage models, it remains an embodiment of automotive mastery and excellence that guarantees a long-lasting appeal. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Hand-crafted elegance and timeless design, courtesy of the renowned Mulliner, ensure the 2003 Bentley Arnage RL remains a head-turner.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
LEARN MORE