1996 Bentley Azure

The Bentley Azure was luxurious, with handcrafted appointments that set it apart from their six-figure competitors. The direct successor to the long-running Corniche, the 'first generation' was introduced in 1995 and produced through 2003, with the second built from 2006 to 2009. Working in conjunction with Pininfarina, Bentley created a graceful convertible with uncluttered styling and elegant proportions. The tried and true 6.75-liter V8 engine was aided by a Garrett turbocharger and could propel the 6,000-pound motorcar to sixty miles per hour in under six seconds.

Bentley chose the Geneva Motor Show in March of 1995 for the Azure's unveiling. It was given the platform of the Continental R model, which had been introduced just a few years prior - in 1991. Assisted by Pininfarina, the four-door Continental R was transformed into a four-seater convertible, a process that consumed two years to complete. Pininfarina created the shell and electrically powered soft-top at their factory in Italy, with the final assembly handled by Bentley at Crewe.

Removing the Continental R's roof required considerable reinforcements to the chassis, as it did not receive a roll-bar.

Mechanical Specification
The Bentley Azure had a 120.5-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 210.6 inches, a height of 58.1 inches, and a width of 74 inches. The 6.75 liter L410 MT 1TV8 engine produced approximately 360 horsepower. It had a single, intercooled Garrett turbocharger, and although Rolls-Royce/Bentley did not announce official power numbers, it is believed that it produced approximately 360 horsepower. As development continued and near the close of production, a new engine management system from Zytek boosted output to 385 horsepower at 4,000 RPM and 550 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 RPM. The transmission was a modified, General Motors-sourced, four-speed 4L80-E automatic transmission. The suspension was independent, and the brakes were discs.

The Bentley Azure successfully fussed modern technology and bespoke assembly. It was offered in a wide color palette and a long list of optional and standard equipment. Costing a premium above the Continental R on which it was based, a total of 1,403 were built through 2002.

Mulliner Trim
Beginning in 1999, Bentley offered the Azure in 'Mulliner' trim, which added bespoke trim, additional equipment, and further customization during the build process.

Final Series Performance
As production was near the end, Bentley offered the 'Final series performance' edition in 2002 and 2003. Production of these unique final editions remained exclusive, with just 62 examples built.

by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2024