Ever since the dawn of automobiles, there has always been a significant market for a big convertible. Both Bentley and Rolls Royce have always had their own contenders which were always big, powerful, comfortable, and above all else, classy. And while Rolls Royce continues to make such models, Bentley quit back in 2009 as the last Azure rolled off the production line. And sure, Bentley still makes a convertible, but the Continental can never be compared to the Azure as it's nothing more than a luxurious sports car. That makes the 2009 Bentley Azure pretty special as it's the last full-size Bentley convertible and the last one with the enormous 6.75 liter Bentley V8. It's also the last Bentley convertible with usable rear seats that can transport five people in utmost comfort. Naturally, the Azure cost s fortune back in 2009, and while you can find examples today that go for five figures, it's by no means a cheap car. But that doesn't mean it's not worth the asking prices, far from it, as we will explain throughout this review. Before that, if you are in the market for a 2009 Azure, there are often great examples at Exotic Car Trader so feel free to take our search engine for a run.
In a way, the Bentley Azure is not only the last of its kind but also the first of its kind. That's because Bentley was owned by Rolls Royce for nearly seventy years and during most of that time, all Bentley convertibles were nothing more than rebadged Rolls Royce models. And it wasn't until 1995 when the Azure, the first of its name, came out that the Bentley convertible was substantially different from the alternative Rolls Royce. By the time the second generation came out, the Bentley Azure shared its platform only with other Bentley models, namely the Arnage and the Brooklands. The second generation Azure came out in 2006 and it had the same design language as other, new Bentley models all of which drew inspiration from the original, 1995 Azure instead of building upon the original Arnage design. The Azure remained in production until 2009 with the last two examples being sold in 2010. As for the 2009 Bentley Azure, only 93 were sold out of around 700 total between 2006 and 2009.
The original Bentley Azure was a grandiose automobile back in 1995 by all means. But it can't even compare to the 2009 Azure. The 2009 Azure is 212.6 inches long which is nearly 13 inches longer than the current Audi Q7. It's also wider than the current Audi A8 making these dimensions more than impressive considering the Azure is a two-door convertible. And it's even more impressive how Bentley shaped the Azure's giant body. The front is dominated by a giant stainless steel grille which was the only finish available. Sitting atop the long hood is the flying B logo and the front bumper is equal parts sporty and elegant. Double-round headlights go back to the original Azure but have beautiful projectors. The side profile is very elegant with a flowing line starting at the front bumper, kicking up a bit over the rear wheels as it slopes downward, and finishing off at the tail lights. The Azure also has some of the best-looking wheels Bentley ever made reminding of those legendary Mercedes monoblocks but looking even better and more expensive. The rear has two oval-shaped exhaust pipes that go perfectly with the overall design. All in all, there is no denying that the 2009 Azure is one of the best-looking Bentleys ever.
The interior of the 2009 Bentley Azure definitely doesn't look like it's from the 21st century, but that's a good thing. There are no unnecessary screens, buttons, or shiny materials and obnoxious leather stitching patterns. Instead, the Azure gets a beautiful and simple gauge cluster with an additional five gauges right in the middle of the dashboard just like in the original Arnage. The entire center console, dashboard, and upper door trim are covered in real wood of varying grains and colors. The upper door trim wood extends unbroken to the rear passengers giving an impression of a luxury yacht when looked at from a bird's perspective. It's also interesting to note that there is little to no parts sharing with VW which can't be said for other Bentley models from the same period. Furthermore, everything that's not covered in wood is instead covered by the finest leather in mostly beautiful warm, and natural colors that have aged wonderfully. Ultimately, the 2009 Bentley Azure interior is extremely welcoming and cozy to the point where just sitting in one is an unforgettable experience.
The Bentley Azure packs a serious punch considering its weight. Its 6.75 liter, twin-turbocharged V8 pushes out 450 horsepower which is the same as the Arnage T which came out just a few years earlier and was the most powerful Bentley ever up until that time. The giant V8 also makes 645 lb-ft of torque (874 Nm) which wouldn't be insufficient even for a box truck. But then again, the 2009 Bentley Azure weighs 2.7 tons or 6,000 lbs thanks to all the structural reinforcements. For comparison, the W12 Bentley Bentayga only weighs 2.4 tons. But despite its weight, the 2009 Azure runs to 60 in just 5.6 seconds and can push out to 167 mph. Of course, stopping 2.7 tons from 167 mph is no easy task so the Azure gets 13.5-inch rear rotors and 13.7 inches in the front with six piston calipers biting into them. Naturally, all that weight means the Azure will never handle like a sports car, but overall, it's got some serious performance stats even today.
Back in 2009, the Bentley Azure had a starting price of $334,000 and that could easily be near $400,000 depending on optional equipment materials used. That made it one of the most expensive convertibles money could buy in 2009. Today, the 2009 Azure can go for anywhere between $80,000 and $250,000 depending on the specifications, mileage, and overall condition. But those that are not museum examples but still have less than 15,000 miles and are nicely specced out go for around $150,000. While that's 50% of its value gone, the Azure still holds its value better than any of its competitors or other Bentley models. And while it's not the best bargain on the automotive market today, it's well worth the money considering how much car you get.
The Bentley Azure isn't talked about enough which is a shame since there is almost nothing on the road that looks like it. Not to mention its impressive performance for a car that weighs 2.7 tons, and one of the best and well-aged interiors in the luxury car world. And lastly, the Azure is drop-dead gorgeous today more than 15 years later, and thanks to its elegant design, will likely remain gorgeous for decades to come. And when the right time comes to buy one, it's a good idea to first check if any are available here at Exotic Car Trader. The reason is that Exotic Car Trader will make the entire buying process as easy and convenient as it gets since we handle everything for you including escrow, inspection, paperwork, and delivery. Exotic Car Trader also offers the same services, and more, to those who are selling their luxury vehicle or are looking to trade it with one of our current customers.
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