The 2008 Bentley Azure brings back the classic Bentley style without any modern Volkswagen engines. It takes people back to a time when British car companies were independent, and Bentley convertibles were known for their luxurious size. This convertible is 18 feet long and can comfortably seat four people in its carefully crafted interior. Inside the car, it packs a powerful 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. It's so luxurious that if you have to ask about the price, it's probably out of reach. According to Dirk van Braeckel, the Director of Design for Bentley Motors, the Azure reflects the heritage of Bentley convertibles with its elegant design, whether the roof is up or down. The canvas top has seven bows for support and can be raised or lowered electrically in just 25 seconds. The windscreen is tilted for a sleek look, and the roof stows away neatly without taking up trunk space. The design includes distinctive wheel arches and a tapered rear end reminiscent of classic Bentleys. LED tail lamps borrowed from the Continental GT Coupe, abundant chrome detailing, and luxurious interior touches like Burr oak veneers and Nautic Blue leather trim complete the exquisite look of the Azure.
The Bentley Azure traces its origins back to the unveiling of the 'Arnage Drophead Coupe' at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show. Despite initial skepticism from industry experts, it was evident that this was more than just a concept car. The level of engineering and integration suggested that a production version was imminent. Development work on Azure commenced in January 2004, and thanks to advancements in technology and production techniques, the project was completed in record time. Ashley Wickham, the Chief Engineer, highlights the challenge of balancing stylish design with rapid development, achieved through a combination of traditional methods and innovative approaches. By early 2006, the first press drives of the Azure convertible took place, offering a blend of classic Bentley luxury with unexpected high-tech features.
While the older Azure was based on the pre-VW merger Continental, the 2008 Bentley Azure is linked to the Arnage sedan, the oldest model in Bentley's lineup. The engine in the Azure comes from the Arnage and it's quite ancient, dating back to 1959. It's a big engine, but the car itself is quite heavy, so it could use some weight loss instead of just a new gearbox. The 2008 Azure has a big 6.75-liter V8 engine with twin turbos, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that powers the rear wheels. Despite its heavy weight, it can still accelerate quickly, with Bentley claiming it can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
The 2008 Bentley Azure features an interior that radiates opulence, adorned with lavish burl walnut and soft leather, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of royalty and appealing to those with a taste for luxury, especially compared to the Drophead Coupe. Following the grand British tradition, the 2008 Bentley Azure showcases an interior that emphasizes aesthetics over practicality. The cabin possesses timeless charm with its rich leather and wood accents, offering several customization options for carpets, wood trims, and hide colors.
Bentley says that the design of the 2008 model takes inspiration not just from the 1995-2002 Azure but also from the 1955 Park Ward S1 drophead coupe. It borrows its suspension and body structure from four-door Bentleys and shares its front-end design with the current Arnage sedan. The Azure has body-colored bumpers and chrome accents on the sides. Its three-layer fabric top can be opened and closed hydraulically in less than 30 seconds, hiding under a cover. The exterior of the 2008 Bentley Azure looks strong and stylish, with long, smooth lines and curved shapes that show luxury and class. The front has a bold grille and the Bentley emblem, with body-colored bumpers and chrome details that add to its fancy look. Overall, Bentley Azure model has a classy design, showing Bentley's tradition of making high-quality cars.
The 2008 Bentley Azure achieving a sprint to 60 mph in under six seconds is commendable. Its redline of under 5,000 rpm is a rare feature for gasoline engines in today's era. While the Azure may not offer the dynamic engagement of some vehicles like the Chevrolet Suburban, it creates a regal presence, effortlessly absorbing bumps and minimizing road noise for a serene driving experience on the open road. Beneath its elegant exterior, the Azure boasts a formidable twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering effortless acceleration and refined performance. The cabin is adorned with premium leather upholstery, genuine wood trim, and state-of-the-art audio and navigation systems, ensuring unparalleled comfort and convenience for occupants.
The 2008 Bentley Azure new cost around $330,000, which seems like a steal compared to the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe priced at over $400,000. However, a used Azure model currently ranges around $94,000. Yet, at this ultra-luxury level, discussions about value become somewhat irrelevant. Azure buyers likely already own an M6, or perhaps they've bought one for their children. Ultimately, it's all about image and exclusivity in this exclusive realm, and the 2008 Bentley Azure certainly ticks those boxes.
In Bentley's lineup, the 2008 Azure represents luxury and performance, showing exclusive features and personalized customization options tailored to Bentley's discerning clientele. Explore a diverse collection of exotic vehicles, including luxury cars, supercars, sports cars, custom builds, classics, and more, at Exotic Car Trader. With a simplified trading process, realizing your dream car is easier than ever. Among its top competitors, the 2008 Bentley Azure embodies the brand's core values of luxury, craftsmanship, and innovation, reaffirming Bentley's status as a leading provider of luxury automobiles.
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