In the late 90s, as sales rose for most Rolls-Royce models and a revival of Bentley, the company set out to launch a new model to replace the Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit and the Bentley Mulsanne, which were in production since 1980. In a break from their standard practice, these new models will get engines sourced from a third party, and their bodies were built at the Crewe factory. It was ultimately decided that the BMW V8 would be used in Bentley’s model. This led to a problem in 1998 when BMW’s arch-rival Volkswagen acquired Rolls-Royce and Bentley Motors. Using the BMW engines in the Bentleys was an issue now, and Arnage models post-1998 were fitted with Mulsanne 6.75 engines and relaunched as the Arnage Red Labels in 1999. These engines and models were reworked over time, and from 2002 onwards, the Arnage Red Label was replaced by the Arnage R, while the Red Label legacy was honored by giving the extended wheel-based models of the Arnage the “RL” label from 2003.
The 2008 Bentley RL can ease from 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds and touch 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds without the passengers realizing their speed in their leather-bound cocoon of luxury. The car reached 124 mph in less than 25 seconds, all thanks to the twin-turbo V8 with its 450 horsepower and 645 pounds/feet of torque. The transmission is a four-speed automatic, and the Arnage RL limousine gets a 9.8-inch extension over the standard Arnage wheelbases. Since all RLs are entirely customized, they are all different. The deeply placed back seats offer complete comfort and privacy, with 12-inch DVD screens, picnic tables, cigar and drink compartments, and all the trappings of high-end traveling needs.
All models of the Arnage got an interior update in 2005, with a new dashboard layout and instrument design. The wooden finish, leather seats, and woolen carpets are standard for all cars, and the level of customization can be confusing in its variety. The Arnage RL comes with a cooler fitted into the center rear armrest and a rear backup camera. There is a DVD player and satellite navigation system. The rear seats are also automated and can move forward to ease entry and exit from the deeply placed back seat. The view from the driver’s seat is high, almost like that of an SUV, and the seat height may cause discomfort for taller drivers. The equipment and instrumentation are ample and lavish. The audio system performs excellently and makes up for the wind and road noise.
The Arnage RL weighs a formidable 5700 pounds, with a 132-inch wheelbase and a total length of 212.2 inches or 17.6 feet. The width of the car is 76 inches. This is a huge and heavy-weight car model. Couple that bulk with the chrome-finished front grilles, the retractable iconic “Flying B” symbol, and the refinement of the hand-built car, and you are in front of a massive, luxury limousine built for ultimate comfort and style. For more details, visit the Autoblog review of the Arnage RL.
The 450-hp V-8 in the Arnage RL is coupled with a ZF automatic gearbox and remains quiet, smooth, and fast. Some people have issues with the age of the V8, but it's mostly re-engineered, and it delivers in the Arnage by handling the heft of the car admirably. The gearbox change can be felt at low to medium speeds, which was a problem in older models too. There is little lag, and the engine and throttle are incredibly responsive despite the bulk of the RL. A better traction and road handling interface allows the car to handle rough roads and maintain stability on less-than-ideal surfaces without losing on driving performance.
The 2008 Bentley Arnage RL was launched at a base price of $267,990, and the rarity of these cars ensures that you won’t be running across multiple listings anywhere. The car has depreciated to some extent over time, and like all used cars, its current value will depend on condition, maintenance history and mileage. The best option is to look at Exotic Car Trader Bentley listings. We don’t always have a Bentley Arnage RL listed, but they do show up sometimes.
The Arnage RL is the high-end version of a luxury car. For most people, the ride, interior, and looks of the Arnage are benchmarks that define a limousine. The interior is sumptuous in its all-leather and wood finishing. The Bentley benchmark of handcrafted details is there in all its glorious wonder. The drive performance is excellent, and the car handles its bulk and rough roads easily. If you have the capacity to add such an ideal luxury car model to your collection, visit us at Exotic Car Trader to check out our Bentley Arnage Listings for any RLs available.
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