The 2001 Bentley Azure is as luxurious as its predecessors - retaining its grand touring convertible physique and engine that offers a refined and powerful driving experience. Under the hood sits its massive 6.8-liter V8 engine that pumps out 400 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This ensures you get smooth acceleration and effortless cruising. While the original MSRP was north of $330,000 for a fully loaded unit, today, you can find a used 2001 Bentley Azure for less than $70,000, depending on mileage, condition, and options. Here is our 2001 Bentley Azure review!
The 2001 Bentley Azure doesn't represent a unique model year in the car's history; instead, it falls within the production run of the first generation Bentley Azure, which began in 1995. It is a grand tourer convertible built on the Bentley Continental R platform and remained in production until 2002. By 2001, the Bentley Azure had matured into a refined luxury machine, receiving a few upgrades to boost its horsepower and torque ratings. Bentley also produced a Mulliner Azure edition to rival the Rolls-Royce Corniche V, its strong competitor of the same era. The interior of the 2001 Azure is a haven of luxury, crafted with extensive use of supple leather and rich wood accents. A unique feature was a "Sport" button that transformed the car's personality. For the 2001 Azure, the Automatic Ride Control (ARC) system did a fantastic job of electronically adjusting the suspension and dampers in real time for a smooth driving experience.
The 2001 Bentley Azure boasts a powerhouse engine designed for effortless cruising and exhilarating bursts of speed. Nestled under the hood is the already familiar 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 engine, which has been in the picture since 1995. It produces a hefty 400 horsepower and about 590 lb-ft of torque. This translates to smooth acceleration and ample power for overtaking, even with the top-down. With a staggering 590 lb-ft of torque on tap, the Azure offers a sense of effortless grunt that propels the car forward with authority. The 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds is respectable for such a luxurious and hefty car (weighing over 5,400 pounds. This grand tourer can unleash a surprising amount of power when desired.
As you'd expect, the interior of the 2001 Azure sports some of the finest materials you'll see on a car interior. Supple leather adorns many surfaces, from the seats and door panels to the dashboard and steering wheel. The rich, inviting scent of the leather adds ambiance to the car. Hand-selected wood veneers that grace the dashboard, center console, and door trims complement the leather. The intricate wood grain patterns and flawless finishing touches showcase Bentley's dedication to detail. All the passengers are treated to ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable journey even for taller individuals. Functionality is integrated seamlessly into the design of the 2001 Bentley Azure's interior, with the instrument cluster featuring clear and legible gauges. The center console houses the infotainment system and climate controls, ensuring everything is within easy reach of the driver. For those who crave a touch of excitement, a unique "Sport" button is present. When engaged, it transforms the car's personality into something sportier.
The 2001 Bentley Azure commands attention on the road with its inherited design. The exterior is mostly the same as its predecessors. The imposing front end features a stately chrome grille reminiscent of Bentley's heritage and sleek halogen headlights that flank the grille. The body's flowing lines create a dynamic profile stretching to the car's back. The long hood and gracefully curving fenders accentuate the car's grand touring nature. There are polished chrome window surrounds, and door handles that add a touch of brilliance, while 17-inch alloy wheels (or 18-inch on Mulliner models) complete the picture of automotive grandeur. The power-retractable convertible top folds neatly beneath a flush-fitting panel behind the rear seats. The convertible top is in various colors to complement the exterior paint and create a truly personalized look.
While the 2001 Bentley Azure prioritizes classic luxury, it doesn't neglect technological advancements. Though less sophisticated than modern, the infotainment system provides essential features like a CD player and radio for on-the-go entertainment. Automatic climate control ensures optimal cabin temperature regardless of the weather. However, the Automatic Ride Control (ARC) system is the most exciting tech feature. This ingenious system utilizes a computer to constantly adjust the suspension dampers, automatically adapting to road conditions. This translates to a smooth and comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces, without compromising handling when taking corners.
Finding a used 2001 Bentley Azure requires patience and searching through classic car dealerships or specialized listing sites like Exotic Car Trader. The final price tag depends on several factors. Expect to pay around $70,000 for a clean, pre-owned 2001 Bentley Azure, and remember that this price depends on mileage, condition and optional features.
In conclusion, the 2001 Bentley Azure remains a captivating choice for those seeking a luxurious and powerful grand touring classic luxury car. It boasts a bold design, a handcrafted and elegant interior, and an engine that delivers power. If you're considering buying or selling a used 2001 Bentley Azure or any other exotic car, look no further than Exotic Car Trader. Their user-friendly platform simplifies buying and selling luxury vehicles online, making it easier to find the perfect car or secure top-dollar for your prized exotic car. While technological features on the 2001 Bentley Azure may not rival modern offerings, the clever Automatic Ride Control system ensures a smooth ride on any road. So, if it sounds like something you've been planning to own, you should get one immediately!
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