In the past, Bentley has been quite successful in appealing their luxurious grand tourers to those with finer tastes – and seven-figure net worths. Bentley creations like the R-Type Continental, S1, S2, S3, and Continental Flying Spur were all excellent grand tourers that fostered the pinnacle of performance and luxury, apart from being a favorite among the wealthy elites. The 2003 Bentley Azure, however, was no different. It packed the luxury and serenity of a private jet, but when the mood struck, it transformed into a 420-horsepower machine, catapulting to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds before hitting the limiter at 150 mph. The Bentley Azure commanded a strong starting price of US$350,000, a mere drop in the bucket for the riches. In today's used markets, the 2003 Bentley Azure can be seen exchanging hands for a respectable $60,000 – $70,000, varying on condition and mileage, etc.
First unveiled at the 1995 Geneva Motor Show, the Azure (first gen) was Bentley's answer to the Rolls Royce Corniche. Being a luxury four-seater limo rocking a soft top, the Azure was known for its brute performance, opulent design, and unmatched passenger comfort. Still, the legendary Coachmaker from Italy (Pininfarina) was commissioned to lead the Azure's design, which was built on the Continental R, sourcing its components, engine, and chassis, all except the roof. Despite the initial dwindling sales, the Azure soon shot to fame, featuring stars like Simon Cowell and Mark Wahlberg. Eventually, in 1999, Bentley began offering the Azure in bespoke, highly individualized 'Mulliner' trims, which went into production until 2003, before the second-generation Bentley Azure succeeded it.
The 2003 Bentley Azure sources its power from a mighty 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 motor, unleashing 420 horsepower and 750 nm of torque through a four-speed automatic gearbox. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) that inspires confidence while zipping through corners. More importantly, the Azure promises a decent punch, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds before topping out at a hair-ruffling top speed of 150 mph (limited). However, with great power, comes great responsibility, and so the Azure returns an atrocious mileage of 10/15 mpg (City/Highway). Still, with a weight of 2.6 tons, the Azure is not meant for breaking lap records. It does, however, prioritize a luxurious grand touring feel, effortlessly devouring miles and miles in style and unparalleled comfort. When the mood strikes, though, you may bury the pedal to the metal for a satisfying, spirited driving experience.
The interior flaunts typical Bentley opulence, studding premium, hand-stitched leather throughout the cabin. Meanwhile, wood trims extend from the dash, steering wheel, and center console to the door panels and floor, accentuating the cabin's timeless theme. Speaking of timeless character, the interior is kept subtle, evident through the analog gauges dominating the dash, rid of massive, tablet-like screens. However, the presence of passenger-convenience features like multimedia radio, heated (power) seats, and dual-zone climate control prioritize passenger comfort. Lastly, a premium, 8-speaker sound system is onboard to drown out city noise with your favorite Queen records. Luckily, the Azure comes equipped with an electronically controlled soft-top, neatly folding in just 25 seconds, to complete a sun-bathed, open-air ride down British backroad.
Pininfarina, the artful Italian design house behind automotive legends like the Ferrari 308GTB and F50, was commissioned by Bentley to sculpt the Azure. And, safe to say, they didn't disappoint. From the elegant yet sporty lines to the graceful, royal-like front end, the Azure aged like fine wine. Still, it retained the typical Bentley DNA, evident through the dramatic front end that houses a matrix center grille flanked by twin headlights. A quick look at the elongated hood reveals where the Azure's boat-like length originates. The sides, however, shout 'speed' in lowercases, sporting glossy 18-inch alloys showered in chrome. Also, there's no mistaking the soft-top roof that electronically tucks behind the Azure's rear section. In fact, the back mirrors the front's elegance, fostering elliptical taillights and a set of twin tailpipes.
The 2003 Bentley Azure was a technological marvel, offering a thrilling blend of performance and comfort. Underneath the hood lies a powerful V8, delivering crazy-fast speeds. At the same time, a sophisticated traction control system and a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure impeccable stability on any road. Meanwhile, prioritizing comfort were features like an automatic self-levelling suspension and cruise control, allowing the Azure to glide effortlessly by highway bumps. Also continuing the 'comfort' theme was the premium sound system and climate control, pampering the occupants with an unmatched level of comfort and refinement.
New, a 2003 Bentley Azure commanded a starting price of US$349,990, excluding options and destination charges. Dare add options – or step up the trim level to the 'Mulliner' and 'Final Series Performance' – and you’ll soon be treading the $400,000 mark. With that said, used specimens of the 2003 Bentley Azure can be seen auctioned off at a respectable $75,000. But, then again, the price may vary depending on the Azure's mileage, condition, and prior ownership. Ever dreamt of owning one? Well, you may want to check out the Bentley listings at Exotic Car Trader to experience the pinnacle of British luxury motoring.
While the 2003 model year concluded the first-generation Azure's reign, it only cemented the brand's legacy as a luxurious and powerful convertible limo that offered an unmatched open-air driving experience. Exotic Car Trader offers an online solution to your exotic-car buying (and selling) dreams. It covers an extensive portfolio of exotic cars, modern or classic, ready to exchange hands. More importantly, we guarantee a hassle-free car-buying experience through our clear yet in-depth car-buying process. Luckily, it also highlights a straightforward car-selling process, protected by market-best fraud detection tools and verification checks, to ensure a safe and secure dealing.
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