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2006 Bentley Arnage RL news, pictures, and information | ||
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Bentley Motors today announced details of wide-ranging changes to its outstanding range of Arnage luxury saloons. The continued investment in the Arnage range is aimed at reinforcing its credentials, both as the only true driver's car in this High Luxury Sector, and as a range that has increased comfort, deeper luxury, classic design language, and the greatest scope for personalisation.
More than ever, the Bentley Arnage now stands as the symbol of British coachbuilding and handcraftsmanship. With an unrivalled heritage, a skill-set handed down through three generations working on the same site, and an ability to tailor cars to precise customer wishes unapproached by any other marque, the Arnage retains an unique appeal.
Every Arnage is built to order and over half are further modified by our coachbuilding arm, Bentley Mulliner. The Arnage is the culmination of over 80 years continual experience of building Grand Touring Limousines: no other production car in the world can be built more closely to the customer's precise specification. It is perhaps no surprise then to hear the comment of one regular customer that determining the specification of an Arnage is like having your own, private car company. Another told us he considered his Arnages to have been born, not made. Considering the care that goes into each one, it's an understandable point of view.
Highlights
· New exterior design, featuring round headlamps wîth Xenon dip and Halogen full beam, a revised
bonnet line and the choice of either a matrix or vaned radiator grille
· New wheels available for all models
· 2005 model year Arnage complies wîth the most stringent emission regulations enforced in Europe (EÚ4) and even achieves Low Emmission Vehicle (LEV) rating in the ÚSA
· Interior design dramatically updated wîth new dashboard top, switchgear, better ergonomics wîth secondary controls hidden behind panels, fresh instruments and new DVD satellite navigation unit, and wîth non-critical controls hidden behind veneered panels
· Increased specification and customer choice through unrivalled paint options from 40 standard colours plus dual tones, and 27 interior hide options
· Revised rear suspension layout and overall settings to both enhance ride quality and provide more consistent handling response
· Price and specification has now been increased across the range: Arnage R: £160,000 (?216, 270) and Arnage T £170,000 (?229,787), providing an improved specification and range of choice
Chassis revisions
After the end-to-end re-engineering of the Arnage chassis introduced in 2002, further changes have been made to the 2005 model year Arnage to extend its already formidable chassis capabilities. By repositioning the lower mounting point of the rear damper from the upright to the lower wishbone, a marked improvement in suspension control has been achieved. This, in conjunction wîth other detailed changes to spring, damper and bush rates (as well as a newly developed Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tyre for the Arnage R and RL) has resulted in much improved ride quality, particularly for those travelling in the back.
Engine
The 6.75-litre V8 engine that powers all Arnages was effectively redesigned from the ground up for 2002, featuring twin-turbocharging and record-breaking torque figures. As such, little change was needed for the 2005 model year. Nevertheless, the engine has now been made fully compliant wîth the new Euro IV emissions regulations, due in 2005. This ensures the viability of this much loved powerplant, that can trace its origins (if not its componentry) back to the 1950s, for many years to come.
Exterior Styling
The 2005 model year Arnage is instantly recognisable thanks to new front end styling designed not only to tidy and freshen the Arnage's appearance, but also to bring the range in line wîth Bentley's iconic design language, as evident on the Continental R & azure and latterly on the Continental GT.
Most notable are the headlamps that comprise twin individual lights wîth chrome bezels, clear lenses and integrated indicators. These lights now comprise xenon bulbs for dip beam and halogen bulbs for full beam.
The Arnage also has a new bonnet, radiator shell and grille, all designed to give a greater sense of occasion and an even more powerful look. The central vee of the bonnet has been raised relative to its lower surfaces and merges seamlessly wîth the revised radiator shell to give a new and integrated look. The new bonnet line also works particularly well in markets where duo-tone paintwork is popular.
As well as the radiator shell being restyled, the radiator grille of the Arnage R and RL can now also be specified wîth longitudinal, parallel vanes for those wanting their car to exude the timeless elegance of Bentleys from the past. The matrix grille introduced wîth the Series Two Arnage in 2002, is still available at no extra cost. A traditional chrome-plated radiator shell can also be specified, again at no extra charge. A new suite of wheels has also been commissioned; each designed to complement the differing characters of the models within the Arnage range.
Interior Styling
A cabin as legendarily cossetting, attractive and elegant as that of the Arnage should not be altered without great thought, and the same principal internal architecture has been retained. Even so, Bentley's designers felt that both the appearance and efficiency of the fascia could be improved further wîth no loss of the cabin's essential charm.
Attention was focussed in particular on the centre console, where a new range of unique switches has been designed for the many functions located there, including the climate control and ventilation systems. These new switches are thoughtfully arranged in an ergonomically efficient and attractive manner that is entirely in keeping wîth the outstanding ambience of the rest of the cabin.
Switches for the electric windows are now more intuitively arranged, while controls for the electric seats, their memories and heater are now located under a sliding panel behind the gear-lever.
The ability to conceal these functions as well as the stereo, ash-tray and more minor ventilation controls behind wood panels has allowed the Arnage's interior designers to create a wonderfully 'clean' look to the cabin. Úncluttered by the legion of switches and buttons that are so often a feature of luxury car interiors, the Arnage is able to present its driver just wîth those controls likely to be in frequent use, while the others are hidden from view unless required.
Other new interior features include a new top to the dashboard, allowing the DVD-based satellite navigation system to be flush fitted, creating a cleaner look to the top of the dash. Because it is DVD rather than CD-ROM based, the satellite navigation covers entire continents down to the smallest detail, on a single disc (Europe and ÚS). This means the owner is spared the time and expense of selecting a new disc and re-programming the navigation every time a border is crossed.
New paintwork
In accordance wîth Bentley's desire to provide Arnage customers wîth an unrivalled specification choice, even before they consider the services of Bentley Mulliner, the range of standard interior and exterior colours has now been greatly expanded.
In stark contrast to other limousine manufacturers, paintwork for the Arnage can now be selected from a choice of 40 exterior colours, compared wîth 22 for the previous model. These include nine blues, eight greens, six reds, silvers and blacks and four browns. In addition to this there are seven recommended duo-tone packages.
The number of hide options for the interior has almost doubled from 15 to 27, 10 of which are shades of cream or brown, the most popular choice for Bentley interiors. There are five greys, four blues and greens, three reds and a single black colour.
Though these colours are Bentley's standard offerings, it is of course possible to have an Arnage painted any colour from the spectrum, and to have hides matched to bespoke requirements. The only constraints are of imagination, and perhaps the broad bands of good taste.
The Arnage R continues in its roles as the personification of refined, four door luxury. Powered by a 400bhp (298kW) version of the twin turbo V8 boasting 616lb ft (835Nm) of torque, they represent the ultimate expression of the iron fist in the velvet glove. Effortlessly, they will pass 60 mph in 6 seconds flat and continue to accelerate until the engine management gently reins them back at 155mph.
But while all Bentleys are true drivers' cars, the Arnage R and RL are intended for those who for whom sublime ride comfort and subdued noise levels mean even more than outright performance and handling response. It is these characteristics that the changes in chassis specification for the 2005 model year Arnage have been designed to enhance.
Specifically in the Arnage R, rolling comfort is considerably improved, bringing extra comfort on motorway and A-roads through a reduction in interference from small surface imperfections. In addition, because the rear axle is now allowed to move rearward in a controlled fashion when it hits a ridge in the road, its energy is much better absorbed wîth a consequent decrease in cabin disturbance. Overall the car feels more compliant yet also more controlled, offering a significant improvement in ride quality wîth no detriment to handling ability.
Taking the Arnage R first, the policy has been to simplify the options packages, wîth many previously optional items becoming either standard or, available at no cost. So while the list price of the Arnage R has risen, over £2000worth of previously cost options are now included as standard. To this can be added a long list of additional features for no further charge, encouraging our customers to commission their Arnage to their own precise and exacting requirements through the offer of an unrivalled level of personal choice.
Finally, the Arnage R benefits from some small but significant styling changes over and above those common to all 2005 Arnages. These modifications have been designed to further augment the luxurious status of the R and to make it stand apart from the considerably more sporting outlook of the Arnage T.
Most obvious is the new suite of wheels that has been commissioned for the cars. The Arnage R and RL both now have an elegant six spoke, 18in alloy wheel as standard and a striking 12 spoke, 19in wheel as an option. These wheels replace those that have served the Arnage since its original launch and breathe fresh life into the exterior appearance of both cars.
On the inside, the seats can now be trimmed wîth contrast piping around their edges and also around the headrest, a small touch for sure, but one that adds an extra dash of class, distinction and atmosphere to a cabin that already boasted perhaps the most envied ambience of any luxury car interior in the world.Source - Bentley
More than ever, the Bentley Arnage now stands as the symbol of British coachbuilding and handcraftsmanship. With an unrivalled heritage, a skill-set handed down through three generations working on the same site, and an ability to tailor cars to precise customer wishes unapproached by any other marque, the Arnage retains an unique appeal.
Every Arnage is built to order and over half are further modified by our coachbuilding arm, Bentley Mulliner. The Arnage is the culmination of over 80 years continual experience of building Grand Touring Limousines: no other production car in the world can be built more closely to the customer's precise specification. It is perhaps no surprise then to hear the comment of one regular customer that determining the specification of an Arnage is like having your own, private car company. Another told us he considered his Arnages to have been born, not made. Considering the care that goes into each one, it's an understandable point of view.
Highlights
· New exterior design, featuring round headlamps wîth Xenon dip and Halogen full beam, a revised
bonnet line and the choice of either a matrix or vaned radiator grille
· New wheels available for all models
· 2005 model year Arnage complies wîth the most stringent emission regulations enforced in Europe (EÚ4) and even achieves Low Emmission Vehicle (LEV) rating in the ÚSA
· Interior design dramatically updated wîth new dashboard top, switchgear, better ergonomics wîth secondary controls hidden behind panels, fresh instruments and new DVD satellite navigation unit, and wîth non-critical controls hidden behind veneered panels
· Increased specification and customer choice through unrivalled paint options from 40 standard colours plus dual tones, and 27 interior hide options
· Revised rear suspension layout and overall settings to both enhance ride quality and provide more consistent handling response
· Price and specification has now been increased across the range: Arnage R: £160,000 (?216, 270) and Arnage T £170,000 (?229,787), providing an improved specification and range of choice
Chassis revisions
After the end-to-end re-engineering of the Arnage chassis introduced in 2002, further changes have been made to the 2005 model year Arnage to extend its already formidable chassis capabilities. By repositioning the lower mounting point of the rear damper from the upright to the lower wishbone, a marked improvement in suspension control has been achieved. This, in conjunction wîth other detailed changes to spring, damper and bush rates (as well as a newly developed Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tyre for the Arnage R and RL) has resulted in much improved ride quality, particularly for those travelling in the back.
Engine
The 6.75-litre V8 engine that powers all Arnages was effectively redesigned from the ground up for 2002, featuring twin-turbocharging and record-breaking torque figures. As such, little change was needed for the 2005 model year. Nevertheless, the engine has now been made fully compliant wîth the new Euro IV emissions regulations, due in 2005. This ensures the viability of this much loved powerplant, that can trace its origins (if not its componentry) back to the 1950s, for many years to come.
Exterior Styling
The 2005 model year Arnage is instantly recognisable thanks to new front end styling designed not only to tidy and freshen the Arnage's appearance, but also to bring the range in line wîth Bentley's iconic design language, as evident on the Continental R & azure and latterly on the Continental GT.
Most notable are the headlamps that comprise twin individual lights wîth chrome bezels, clear lenses and integrated indicators. These lights now comprise xenon bulbs for dip beam and halogen bulbs for full beam.
The Arnage also has a new bonnet, radiator shell and grille, all designed to give a greater sense of occasion and an even more powerful look. The central vee of the bonnet has been raised relative to its lower surfaces and merges seamlessly wîth the revised radiator shell to give a new and integrated look. The new bonnet line also works particularly well in markets where duo-tone paintwork is popular.
As well as the radiator shell being restyled, the radiator grille of the Arnage R and RL can now also be specified wîth longitudinal, parallel vanes for those wanting their car to exude the timeless elegance of Bentleys from the past. The matrix grille introduced wîth the Series Two Arnage in 2002, is still available at no extra cost. A traditional chrome-plated radiator shell can also be specified, again at no extra charge. A new suite of wheels has also been commissioned; each designed to complement the differing characters of the models within the Arnage range.
Interior Styling
A cabin as legendarily cossetting, attractive and elegant as that of the Arnage should not be altered without great thought, and the same principal internal architecture has been retained. Even so, Bentley's designers felt that both the appearance and efficiency of the fascia could be improved further wîth no loss of the cabin's essential charm.
Attention was focussed in particular on the centre console, where a new range of unique switches has been designed for the many functions located there, including the climate control and ventilation systems. These new switches are thoughtfully arranged in an ergonomically efficient and attractive manner that is entirely in keeping wîth the outstanding ambience of the rest of the cabin.
Switches for the electric windows are now more intuitively arranged, while controls for the electric seats, their memories and heater are now located under a sliding panel behind the gear-lever.
The ability to conceal these functions as well as the stereo, ash-tray and more minor ventilation controls behind wood panels has allowed the Arnage's interior designers to create a wonderfully 'clean' look to the cabin. Úncluttered by the legion of switches and buttons that are so often a feature of luxury car interiors, the Arnage is able to present its driver just wîth those controls likely to be in frequent use, while the others are hidden from view unless required.
Other new interior features include a new top to the dashboard, allowing the DVD-based satellite navigation system to be flush fitted, creating a cleaner look to the top of the dash. Because it is DVD rather than CD-ROM based, the satellite navigation covers entire continents down to the smallest detail, on a single disc (Europe and ÚS). This means the owner is spared the time and expense of selecting a new disc and re-programming the navigation every time a border is crossed.
New paintwork
In accordance wîth Bentley's desire to provide Arnage customers wîth an unrivalled specification choice, even before they consider the services of Bentley Mulliner, the range of standard interior and exterior colours has now been greatly expanded.
In stark contrast to other limousine manufacturers, paintwork for the Arnage can now be selected from a choice of 40 exterior colours, compared wîth 22 for the previous model. These include nine blues, eight greens, six reds, silvers and blacks and four browns. In addition to this there are seven recommended duo-tone packages.
The number of hide options for the interior has almost doubled from 15 to 27, 10 of which are shades of cream or brown, the most popular choice for Bentley interiors. There are five greys, four blues and greens, three reds and a single black colour.
Though these colours are Bentley's standard offerings, it is of course possible to have an Arnage painted any colour from the spectrum, and to have hides matched to bespoke requirements. The only constraints are of imagination, and perhaps the broad bands of good taste.
The Arnage R continues in its roles as the personification of refined, four door luxury. Powered by a 400bhp (298kW) version of the twin turbo V8 boasting 616lb ft (835Nm) of torque, they represent the ultimate expression of the iron fist in the velvet glove. Effortlessly, they will pass 60 mph in 6 seconds flat and continue to accelerate until the engine management gently reins them back at 155mph.
But while all Bentleys are true drivers' cars, the Arnage R and RL are intended for those who for whom sublime ride comfort and subdued noise levels mean even more than outright performance and handling response. It is these characteristics that the changes in chassis specification for the 2005 model year Arnage have been designed to enhance.
Specifically in the Arnage R, rolling comfort is considerably improved, bringing extra comfort on motorway and A-roads through a reduction in interference from small surface imperfections. In addition, because the rear axle is now allowed to move rearward in a controlled fashion when it hits a ridge in the road, its energy is much better absorbed wîth a consequent decrease in cabin disturbance. Overall the car feels more compliant yet also more controlled, offering a significant improvement in ride quality wîth no detriment to handling ability.
Taking the Arnage R first, the policy has been to simplify the options packages, wîth many previously optional items becoming either standard or, available at no cost. So while the list price of the Arnage R has risen, over £2000worth of previously cost options are now included as standard. To this can be added a long list of additional features for no further charge, encouraging our customers to commission their Arnage to their own precise and exacting requirements through the offer of an unrivalled level of personal choice.
Finally, the Arnage R benefits from some small but significant styling changes over and above those common to all 2005 Arnages. These modifications have been designed to further augment the luxurious status of the R and to make it stand apart from the considerably more sporting outlook of the Arnage T.
Most obvious is the new suite of wheels that has been commissioned for the cars. The Arnage R and RL both now have an elegant six spoke, 18in alloy wheel as standard and a striking 12 spoke, 19in wheel as an option. These wheels replace those that have served the Arnage since its original launch and breathe fresh life into the exterior appearance of both cars.
On the inside, the seats can now be trimmed wîth contrast piping around their edges and also around the headrest, a small touch for sure, but one that adds an extra dash of class, distinction and atmosphere to a cabin that already boasted perhaps the most envied ambience of any luxury car interior in the world.Source - Bentley
The luxurious Bentley Arnage was debuted at the Sarthe Circuit in France on the 26th of April of 1998. This was considered fitting because this was the racecourse where Bentley's had finished first place in the legendary '24 Hours of Le Mans' at least five times during their history. The name Arnage was taken from the challenging bend at the famous track. The Arnage measuring 197 inches long, 75 inches wide and featured a curb weight of more than 2.5 metric tons. At one point, it was the fastest and most powerful four-door saloon on the market.
The first of a new generation of sporting Bentleys, the Arnage featured great mid-range pulling power alongside superb levels of refinement. A large luxury vehicle produced by Bentley Motors in Crewe England, the Arnage was introduced in 98 and ran until 2009. Introduced in the spring of 1998 alongside it's Rolls-Royce branded sibling; the Silver Seraph, both were the first brand new designs for the two marques since 1980. Completely breaking from tradition, these new vehicles had bodies constructed at the Crewe factory, with its internal combustion engines built elsewhere.
Some Bentley enthusiasts were unhappy that the vehicle lost the traditional 6750cc V8; a powerplant that could trace its history back to the 1950's, it instead featured a 4.4-liter turbo-charged V8 engine from BMW. The BMW engine, with Cosworth-engineered twin-turbo installation was an excellent unit that delivered tons of power and torque. Diehard Bentley devotees weren't pacified though until September of 1999 when the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's parent company, offered the huge Rolls-Royce 6.8-liter V8 in a new version of the Arnage.
In 1998 during the takeover battle between BMW and Volkswagen Group for possession of Rolls Royce and Bentley Motors, BMW threatened to halt supply of their engines if Volkswagen Group won. This threat was later withdrawn when BMW acquired the right to manufacture the Rolls Royce marque at a new location and it was obvious that Volkswagen couldn't accept the risks association with having their long-term business partner as a rival. In response Volkswagen got ready their old 6.75 liter 16-valve engine from the Turbo R, which they mated to an outdated 4-speed automatic. Unfortunately this combination made for a thirsty engine that wouldn't meet Government-imposed emission standards without quick modifications.
The BMW-powered version was called the Green Label, while the Rolls-Royce engine model was dubbed the Red Label. Both Red and Green Label vehicles received stiffer body shells along with larger wheels and brakes. 2000 model year vehicles were fitted with more powerful brakes while the Green Label model received the 18-inch wheels that were displayed by the more powerful Red Label variant. Because of the extra weight of the British engine the stiffer body shell was a priority, the same with the larger brakes. Unfortunately though despite the larger brakes, the performance only worsened with the additional weight of 6.75 engine. The 1999 Green Label had braking performance from 70-0 at 172 feet while the Arnage T's performance was 182 feet from 70-0.
Other revisions included adding park distance control to the front and rear, making a pop up Alpine navigation system standard and increasing the rear seat legroom. The steering rack was also modified to reduce steering effort at low speed and adding power folding exterior mirrors. The headlight lens covers transitioned from glass to plastic.
Bentley public relations department hinted at customer demand for the reason behind the reversal of the previous two valve per cylinder 6.75 liter unit for the Red Label. Most consumers accepted this, but few criticized the BMW motor as lacking in power and dull. The BMW-powered Arnage was more up-to-date, more fuel efficient and featured 32 valves with double overhead camshafts, twin turbo and Bosch engine management technology, rather than 16 valve, single turbo and a pushrod motor with considerably less advanced engine management.
Less than a second of the 0-60 mph time was shaved from the Red Label's growth in motive power. The BMW's twin turbo unit did continue to remain more responsive and nimble from the driver's perspective due to its DOHC engine being more responsive along with better weight balance and nearly 600lb lower curb weight.
The Green Label was sturdier and more reliable as well as being cheaper to service in the long run. The BMW engine's output drawback was the ZF 5HP30 transmission; which wasn't rated to handle more than 413 lb/ft of torque that the twin turbo engine was tuned to produce.
The production of the aged 6.75 liter Roll's Royce engine was outsourced for use in the continued Azure and Continental models to Cosworth, so going back to the old standby engine was a easy choice for the company. The Red Label model went back to the old V8 engine that featured torque of 835 newton meters with a single Garrett T4 turbo charger. At this time, it was the highest amount of torque for a four-door vehicle. The GM-sourced four-speed 4L80-E automatic transmission also made reappearance.
The Green Label was very quietly dropped shortly afterwards in 2000.
The Arnage RL was a long-wheelbase model introduced in 2001. It was 9.8 inches longer than the original Arnage with the extra length at the rear doors and its C-pillar. The RL model had rear wheel butts a few inches further back than the standard Arnage model whose wells butt up against the rear door-frames. The effect was a larger rear area on the interior of the vehicle. Sometime dubbed 'double-cut' in the U.S. the type of saloon stretch was named this was because of the two main points where the car is extended. Each Arnage RL was individually customized for the buyer.
Arnage RL wheelbases ranged from 131.3 inches to 140.4 inches, and even sometimes 151.3 inches. The longest wheelbase version, the 151-inch version had its length stretched between the front and rear doors instead of at the C-pillar at the rear doors, American limousine-style. The large car handled well due to the suspension being retuned for the added weight. Many Arnage RL limousines were ordered with bulletproof elements, reflecting the clientele of the vehicle. For a hefty pricetag starting at $243,000, a full B6 package was available which offers protection from grenades and assault weapons. As of 2006, the Arnage RL continues to remain in production.
The RL featured a completely reworked version of the old 6.75 liter V8 engine. Over half of the engine's parts were brand new, with the old Zytech system being replaced with Bosch Motronic ME7.1.1 engine management and two small Garrett T3 turbochargers replacing the single large T4. This new engine was said to be capable of meeting all future emissions requirements and developed 405 metric horsepower and 835 newton meters. Similar to the originally Cosworth-BMW unit developed for the 98 Arnage, the RL was powered by a modern twin-turbo unit with state-of-the-art electronic management system.
In 2002 Bentley updated the Red Label as the series two Arnage R. The Arnage T was the more sporting model and was introduced in contrast to the Arnage R. Same with the RL the Arnage R features two Garrett T3 turbochargers. It also claimed to be the most powerful road warrior at its debut at the Detroit Motor Show in 2002. There were twin-turbochargers, like with the Arnage R, but they were tuned to develop 465 metric horsepower and 875 newton meters. The T's top speed was 170 mpg and could achieve 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. All R & T models share the same 122.7 in wheelbase. In 2005 the Arnage range was updated and the front end now resembled the new Continental GT.
In honor of the Queens Golden Jubilee in 2002, the Bentley State Limousine was an official vehicle created by Bentley Motors Limited. Only two were built. The car's twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine was converted from Bentley's Arnage R version to produce 296 kW; 397 bhp and 616 lb/ft or torque.
For 2007 the Arnage R received low-inertia Mitsubishi units designed to enhance engine response that replaced the Garrett turbochargers. This model year's engine was joined to a variant of the six-speed ZF automatic transmission found in the Continental range. The engine capacity was increased from 411.8 cu in to 412.6 cu in. Due to the new tuning, the horsepower was bumped up to 500 (368 kW; 493 bhp) and 1,000 newton meters in the Arnage T, while the Arnage R featured 460 metric horsepower and 875 newton meters. The Arnage T was performance oriented and could reach 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 179 mph.
For 2006 Bentley commemorated their 60 years of production at the Crewe factory with a unique Diamond Series Arnage. A total of 60 vehicles were planned, mostly for the United States. The vehicles featured diamond quilted leather seats, diamond wood inlays, special 19-inch alloy wheels, a stainless steel front bumper and Union Jack badges on the front wings.
Two years later in September of 2008 it was announced that Arnage production would cease the following year, once a final run of 150 'Final Series' models had been completed. The Final Series included the Arnage T powertrain and the twin-turbo 6.75 V8 engine that produced 500 metric horsepower and approximately 1,000 newton meters of torque. Through a six-speed ZF automatic transmission the powertrain delivers torque to the rear wheels.
On the exterior the Final Series featured special 20-inch alloy wheels, body-colored headlamp bezels, a retractable 'Flying B' mascot, dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles, lower front wing vents, special badging and a 'Jewel-style' fuel filler cap. Mulliner designed the interior of the car, and featured Final Series kick plates, special chrome trim, drilled alloy pedals, two picnic tables and a rear cocktail cabinet. This model also came with a premium 1,000 watt audio system by Naim Audio and came with four distinct umbrellas.
Forty-Two exterior color schemes were offered with this model, twenty-five interior hides and three wood veneers. Customers could also specify bespoke color- matching offered by Bentley. The Arnage Final Series marks the 50th Anniversary of Bentley's V8 engine. The 2009 version of the engine continues to be loosely based on the same design that was introduced way back on the 1959 Bentley S2. Though the 2008 engine shares no identical parts with the 1950 model, the final common item having been replaced in 2005. Advertising of the engine when first introduced described the power and torque as 'adequate'. Twin-turbocharged, the all-aluminum alloy engine delivers 0-60mph in just 5.3 seconds. The car weighs 2.5 tons.
In 2009 a replacement model called the Bentley Mulsanne was debuted in August at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in Monterey, California. Because of separate parent companies, the design of the Mulsanne will now be completely separate and independent from Rolls-Royce cars. Rolls-Royce is held by BMW and Bentley is held by the Volkswagen Group.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Arnage
http://www.compucars.co.uk/car-reviews/bentley/review/?arnage
By Jessica Donaldson
For more information and related vehicles, click hereThe first of a new generation of sporting Bentleys, the Arnage featured great mid-range pulling power alongside superb levels of refinement. A large luxury vehicle produced by Bentley Motors in Crewe England, the Arnage was introduced in 98 and ran until 2009. Introduced in the spring of 1998 alongside it's Rolls-Royce branded sibling; the Silver Seraph, both were the first brand new designs for the two marques since 1980. Completely breaking from tradition, these new vehicles had bodies constructed at the Crewe factory, with its internal combustion engines built elsewhere.
Some Bentley enthusiasts were unhappy that the vehicle lost the traditional 6750cc V8; a powerplant that could trace its history back to the 1950's, it instead featured a 4.4-liter turbo-charged V8 engine from BMW. The BMW engine, with Cosworth-engineered twin-turbo installation was an excellent unit that delivered tons of power and torque. Diehard Bentley devotees weren't pacified though until September of 1999 when the Volkswagen Group, Bentley's parent company, offered the huge Rolls-Royce 6.8-liter V8 in a new version of the Arnage.
In 1998 during the takeover battle between BMW and Volkswagen Group for possession of Rolls Royce and Bentley Motors, BMW threatened to halt supply of their engines if Volkswagen Group won. This threat was later withdrawn when BMW acquired the right to manufacture the Rolls Royce marque at a new location and it was obvious that Volkswagen couldn't accept the risks association with having their long-term business partner as a rival. In response Volkswagen got ready their old 6.75 liter 16-valve engine from the Turbo R, which they mated to an outdated 4-speed automatic. Unfortunately this combination made for a thirsty engine that wouldn't meet Government-imposed emission standards without quick modifications.
The BMW-powered version was called the Green Label, while the Rolls-Royce engine model was dubbed the Red Label. Both Red and Green Label vehicles received stiffer body shells along with larger wheels and brakes. 2000 model year vehicles were fitted with more powerful brakes while the Green Label model received the 18-inch wheels that were displayed by the more powerful Red Label variant. Because of the extra weight of the British engine the stiffer body shell was a priority, the same with the larger brakes. Unfortunately though despite the larger brakes, the performance only worsened with the additional weight of 6.75 engine. The 1999 Green Label had braking performance from 70-0 at 172 feet while the Arnage T's performance was 182 feet from 70-0.
Other revisions included adding park distance control to the front and rear, making a pop up Alpine navigation system standard and increasing the rear seat legroom. The steering rack was also modified to reduce steering effort at low speed and adding power folding exterior mirrors. The headlight lens covers transitioned from glass to plastic.
Bentley public relations department hinted at customer demand for the reason behind the reversal of the previous two valve per cylinder 6.75 liter unit for the Red Label. Most consumers accepted this, but few criticized the BMW motor as lacking in power and dull. The BMW-powered Arnage was more up-to-date, more fuel efficient and featured 32 valves with double overhead camshafts, twin turbo and Bosch engine management technology, rather than 16 valve, single turbo and a pushrod motor with considerably less advanced engine management.
Less than a second of the 0-60 mph time was shaved from the Red Label's growth in motive power. The BMW's twin turbo unit did continue to remain more responsive and nimble from the driver's perspective due to its DOHC engine being more responsive along with better weight balance and nearly 600lb lower curb weight.
The Green Label was sturdier and more reliable as well as being cheaper to service in the long run. The BMW engine's output drawback was the ZF 5HP30 transmission; which wasn't rated to handle more than 413 lb/ft of torque that the twin turbo engine was tuned to produce.
The production of the aged 6.75 liter Roll's Royce engine was outsourced for use in the continued Azure and Continental models to Cosworth, so going back to the old standby engine was a easy choice for the company. The Red Label model went back to the old V8 engine that featured torque of 835 newton meters with a single Garrett T4 turbo charger. At this time, it was the highest amount of torque for a four-door vehicle. The GM-sourced four-speed 4L80-E automatic transmission also made reappearance.
The Green Label was very quietly dropped shortly afterwards in 2000.
The Arnage RL was a long-wheelbase model introduced in 2001. It was 9.8 inches longer than the original Arnage with the extra length at the rear doors and its C-pillar. The RL model had rear wheel butts a few inches further back than the standard Arnage model whose wells butt up against the rear door-frames. The effect was a larger rear area on the interior of the vehicle. Sometime dubbed 'double-cut' in the U.S. the type of saloon stretch was named this was because of the two main points where the car is extended. Each Arnage RL was individually customized for the buyer.
Arnage RL wheelbases ranged from 131.3 inches to 140.4 inches, and even sometimes 151.3 inches. The longest wheelbase version, the 151-inch version had its length stretched between the front and rear doors instead of at the C-pillar at the rear doors, American limousine-style. The large car handled well due to the suspension being retuned for the added weight. Many Arnage RL limousines were ordered with bulletproof elements, reflecting the clientele of the vehicle. For a hefty pricetag starting at $243,000, a full B6 package was available which offers protection from grenades and assault weapons. As of 2006, the Arnage RL continues to remain in production.
The RL featured a completely reworked version of the old 6.75 liter V8 engine. Over half of the engine's parts were brand new, with the old Zytech system being replaced with Bosch Motronic ME7.1.1 engine management and two small Garrett T3 turbochargers replacing the single large T4. This new engine was said to be capable of meeting all future emissions requirements and developed 405 metric horsepower and 835 newton meters. Similar to the originally Cosworth-BMW unit developed for the 98 Arnage, the RL was powered by a modern twin-turbo unit with state-of-the-art electronic management system.
In 2002 Bentley updated the Red Label as the series two Arnage R. The Arnage T was the more sporting model and was introduced in contrast to the Arnage R. Same with the RL the Arnage R features two Garrett T3 turbochargers. It also claimed to be the most powerful road warrior at its debut at the Detroit Motor Show in 2002. There were twin-turbochargers, like with the Arnage R, but they were tuned to develop 465 metric horsepower and 875 newton meters. The T's top speed was 170 mpg and could achieve 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. All R & T models share the same 122.7 in wheelbase. In 2005 the Arnage range was updated and the front end now resembled the new Continental GT.
In honor of the Queens Golden Jubilee in 2002, the Bentley State Limousine was an official vehicle created by Bentley Motors Limited. Only two were built. The car's twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine was converted from Bentley's Arnage R version to produce 296 kW; 397 bhp and 616 lb/ft or torque.
For 2007 the Arnage R received low-inertia Mitsubishi units designed to enhance engine response that replaced the Garrett turbochargers. This model year's engine was joined to a variant of the six-speed ZF automatic transmission found in the Continental range. The engine capacity was increased from 411.8 cu in to 412.6 cu in. Due to the new tuning, the horsepower was bumped up to 500 (368 kW; 493 bhp) and 1,000 newton meters in the Arnage T, while the Arnage R featured 460 metric horsepower and 875 newton meters. The Arnage T was performance oriented and could reach 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 179 mph.
For 2006 Bentley commemorated their 60 years of production at the Crewe factory with a unique Diamond Series Arnage. A total of 60 vehicles were planned, mostly for the United States. The vehicles featured diamond quilted leather seats, diamond wood inlays, special 19-inch alloy wheels, a stainless steel front bumper and Union Jack badges on the front wings.
Two years later in September of 2008 it was announced that Arnage production would cease the following year, once a final run of 150 'Final Series' models had been completed. The Final Series included the Arnage T powertrain and the twin-turbo 6.75 V8 engine that produced 500 metric horsepower and approximately 1,000 newton meters of torque. Through a six-speed ZF automatic transmission the powertrain delivers torque to the rear wheels.
On the exterior the Final Series featured special 20-inch alloy wheels, body-colored headlamp bezels, a retractable 'Flying B' mascot, dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles, lower front wing vents, special badging and a 'Jewel-style' fuel filler cap. Mulliner designed the interior of the car, and featured Final Series kick plates, special chrome trim, drilled alloy pedals, two picnic tables and a rear cocktail cabinet. This model also came with a premium 1,000 watt audio system by Naim Audio and came with four distinct umbrellas.
Forty-Two exterior color schemes were offered with this model, twenty-five interior hides and three wood veneers. Customers could also specify bespoke color- matching offered by Bentley. The Arnage Final Series marks the 50th Anniversary of Bentley's V8 engine. The 2009 version of the engine continues to be loosely based on the same design that was introduced way back on the 1959 Bentley S2. Though the 2008 engine shares no identical parts with the 1950 model, the final common item having been replaced in 2005. Advertising of the engine when first introduced described the power and torque as 'adequate'. Twin-turbocharged, the all-aluminum alloy engine delivers 0-60mph in just 5.3 seconds. The car weighs 2.5 tons.
In 2009 a replacement model called the Bentley Mulsanne was debuted in August at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in Monterey, California. Because of separate parent companies, the design of the Mulsanne will now be completely separate and independent from Rolls-Royce cars. Rolls-Royce is held by BMW and Bentley is held by the Volkswagen Group.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bentley_Arnage
http://www.compucars.co.uk/car-reviews/bentley/review/?arnage
By Jessica Donaldson
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 2006
Bentley
models |
| Bentley Arange Diamond Series |
| Bentley Arnage R |
| Bentley Arnage T |
| Bentley Azure |
| Bentley Continental Flying Spur |
| Bentley Continental GT Diamond Series |
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| Devon | Ferrari |
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| Rolls-Royce | Spyker |
| Tesla | |
| Bentley: 2001-2010 |
| Similar Automakers |
| Other models by Bentley |
| Vehicle Recall Information |
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