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  • Final Mulsanne Adds a Royal Touch to Bentley Heritage Collection

    Final Mulsanne Adds a Royal Touch to Bentley Heritage Collection

    • The last Mulsanne to be built comes home to Crewe, after service with Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
    • Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase commissioned by the Queen, in Barnato paint with a Twine and Cumbrian Green interior
    • Joins Bentley’s Heritage Collection, to live alongside the second production Mulsanne built (2010) and pinnacle Mulsanne Speed (2019)
    • Unique interior features – including a custom cubby for a handbag – define a cherished vehicle
    • The Heritage Collection now comprises 45 cars spanning the company’s 104-year history

    [source: Bentley]

    Crewe, England –  Bentley Motors today announces the most recent and prestigious addition to its rejuvenated Heritage Collection – a bespoke 2020 Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, the final example of the Mulsanne handcrafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, which has now returned home after service with the Royal household.

    The last Mulsanne was commissioned by, and built for, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and includes a range of bespoke features to ensure the car was fit for royal duties. The starting point was an exterior in solid Barnato green (barnatogreen; metallic UNI; 6602 / 9561028 / LK6A; Bentley), paired with an interior in Twine and Cumbrian hide, Burr Walnut wood veneers and deep lambswool carpets. To this, the specification added rear privacy curtains and the Royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom inlaid into the door waistrails, while the front centre armrests were removed in lieu of a custom-sized tray to accommodate the Queen’s handbag. 

    Discretely concealed blue police lights, a siren and a bullhorn were also installed, with a dedicated switch panel hidden beneath a walnut-veneered door behind the gear lever. 

    Bentley’s famous 537PS 6.75-litre V8 engine, 21” alloy wheels and chrome brightware for the grille and front wing vents and the iconic Flying B complete the car, which will be retained as the third and final Mulsanne in Bentley’s Heritage Collection. It will join the second Mulsanne ever built, VIN 0002 from 2010, and a 2019 Mulsanne Speed that previously saw service on Bentley’s press fleet. The three Mulsannes are part of an expanded 45-car Collection, 2.5 years into a three-year programme to completely rebuild a family of cars that together explain and describe Bentley’s 104-year history.

    A History of Mulsanne

    Launched at Pebble Beach in 2009, the Mulsanne was developed from scratch, housing a new variant of Bentley’s 6.75-litre V8 engine, a new chassis, as well as new exterior and interior designs.

    In 2016, a new Mulsanne was launched at the Geneva Motor Show, with the car further raising the standards of luxury with a redesigned interior – featuring new seats, door trims, armrests, navigation technology and a brand new infotainment system. The front end of the car was also upgraded with new grilles, lights and a new bonnet.

    Alongside the new Mulsanne in 2016, Bentley also launched the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase, with a 250 mm extension of the Mulsanne’s footprint enabling space for an ornate folding table, centre console, electronic leg-rests and privacy curtains to deliver the best in class luxury experience for the rear-seat passengers.

    Bidding farewell to the Mulsanne in 2020, the final 30 series production cars formed the unique ‘6.75 Edition by Mulliner’, with the name derived from the car’s legendary 6.75-litre engine – which also came to the end of production alongside the Mulsanne after more than 60 years.

    The Mulsanne was in production for over a decade, with each of the 7,300 cars handcrafted at Bentley’s factory in Crewe.

    The Bentley Heritage Collection

    Bentley’s Heritage Collection now consists of 45 cars, from the oldest Bentley in the world (the 1919 3-Litre EXP2) through to the 2021 Continental GT Speed, with some of the most extraordinary Bentleys ever made representing every decade of the company’s 104-year history. 37 road registered, road legal cars describe the development of the Bentley model range over the same period, bolstered by eight of the most famous motorsport and record-breaking vehicles – including three Speed 8s, both generations of Continental GT3, and Pikes Peak and Ice Speed Record cars.

    All of the cars in the Heritage Collection are maintained and on display at Bentley’s carbon neutral Dream Factory in Crewe, England. Customers, VIPs, media guests and Bentley colleagues are all able to view the company’s history through the Collection as part of the factory tour experience.

  • Audi TT Roadster Final edition Celebrates Legacy of Original Audi Design Icon

    Audi TT Roadster Final edition Celebrates Legacy of Original Audi Design Icon

    • TT Roadster Final edition features unique design details, including a gray convertible top, carbon fiber inlays, 20-inch wheels, and S line exterior
    • Available only as Roadster and painted in Audi exclusive Goodwood Green pearl effect with Palomino Brown leather interior
    • Limited to 50 units and only for the United States

    [source: Audi of America]

    RESTON, VA – Today, Audi of America celebrates three generations of iconic design with the 2023 Audi TT Roadster Final edition. Finished in an Audi exclusive shade of green – Goodwood Green pearl effect (goodwoodgrün; pearl effect UNI; Z6X; Audi), the TT Roadster Final edition includes unique elements including a modern interpretation of the original TT’s baseball stitch seats. Only 50 units are available for the U.S. market.

    TT Final edition celebrates the original Audi design icon
    The TT Final edition features unique design elements that celebrate the heritage of the Audi TT and embody the model’s reputation for transcendent design.

    The TT Final edition presents an exclusive list of equipment not available on other Roadster models, including:

    • Audi exclusive Goodwood Green pearl effect
    • Audi exclusive Palomino Brown stitching
    • Audi exclusive floor mats
    • Audi magnetic ride
    • Extended leather package in seat color
    • Gray convertible top
    • 20×9-inch 10-Y-spoke design forged wheels
    • Carbon fiber inlays
    • S line exterior

    Unique design elements
    The TT Final edition is available only as a Roadster and comes finished in Audi exclusive Goodwood Green pearl effect paint, which was offered as a series production color for the first generation TT Roadster. Platinum gray matte exterior bumper trim and side trim elements are integrated with the S line exterior, which is offered for the first time on the third generation TT Roadster, and comes equipped without S line badging for increased exclusivity. Complementing the gray accents of the S line exterior is a gray convertible top. The gray color soft-top was only previously used on the 2019 TT Roadster 20thAnniversary edition, and features an electrohydraulic drive system that can raise and lower the roof in just 10 seconds while the vehicle is driving at speeds of up to 31 mph.

    Inside, the TT Final edition is finished in Palomino Brown leather, which nods to the first generation’s iconic baseball stitch leather. When paired with the Audi exclusive Goodwood Green exterior, it creates a timeless combination and is a tribute to the first generation TT Roadster. Furthermore, the TT Final edition comes standard with an extended leather package, which finishes the door armrests and center console in the same Palomino Brown leather and stitching, as well as black leather covering the airbag cap and instrument cluster hood. Audi exclusive Palomino Brown stitching was added to the steering wheel and gear selector boot, and the floor mats are trimmed with Palomino Brown leather piping and stitching to complete the look of the interior.

    The TT Roadster’s S sport seats are also equipped with neck-level heating to keep you warm on chilly days with the top down and include built-in seatbelt microphones for optimizing Bluetooth and voice recognition operation. Finally, Carbon fiber inlays adorn the interior surfaces, underlining the sporty character of the TT Roadster Final edition.

    Legendary TT performance
    The TT Roadster Final edition comes standard with 20×9-inch 10-Y-spoke design forged wheels, wrapped with 255/30 R20 92Y XL summer tires, borrowed from the sporty TTS. Also taking a cue from the TTS is the Audi magnetic ride suspension system, which adapts the damping forces depending on the driving situation for increased driving dynamics, as well as provides a lower center of gravity with its 10mm reduction in ride height compared to the standard suspension.

    The TT Roadster features a 2.0-liter four cylinder turbocharged engine with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque that comes mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The TT Roadster can sprint from 0-60 mph in as little as 5.5 seconds.

    It is all in the name
    The model name “TT” is reminiscent of the legendary Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man – one of the oldest motorsports events in the world where Auto Union brands, NSU and DKW, celebrated great successes with their motorcycles. NSU would later use the TT nomenclature to commemorate the brand’s historic race championship on its sporty small car – the TT Prinz.

    In 1998, Audi debuted its TT Coupe to the world – and followed with a Roadster model just one year later. The Bauhaus inspired design challenged conventional ideas of Audi design, while the Audi TT’s name itself was a deliberate departure from the brand’s usual nomenclature to underscore the novelty of the model line.

    A fond farewell
    Over the years, the TT model line often served as the technology leader for the brand, launching several iconic design and technology firsts including – the electronically deployable rear spoiler, Audi virtual cockpit, and the first Audi with available OLED taillights.

    The Audi TT closes production after the 2023 model, ending a chapter of iconic design for the brand with four rings.

    On sale now
    The Audi TT Roadster Final edition is on sale now for the U.S. market with an MSRP of $67,800 plus $1,095 destination charge.

    ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA
    At Audi of America, we believe the future is electric. By 2025, our U.S. model lineup will be at least 30 percent electrified, including fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Globally, we are committed to net CO2 neutrality by 2050. In 2022, Audi sold 186,875 vehicles in the U.S., sold more fully electric models than ever before, and achieved a record-breaking year in after sales. Learn more about who we are and how we’re working to create a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive future at audiusa.com or media.audiusa.com. 

    This information and any vehicle specifications are preliminary and subject to change.

    Always obey local speed and traffic laws.

    MSRP excludes taxes, title, other options and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

  • Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    Bentley Zurich Celebrates Centenary with a Mulliner Anniversary Collection

    • Special Bentley Mulliner 100 Anniversary Collection to celebrate the centenary of Bentley retail partner in Zurich 
    • Luxury quartet based on Bentayga S, Flying Spur Speed, Continental GT and GTC Speed models
    • Limited Edition models are result of a collaboration with Mulliner who worked on a co-creation with unique features: exterior colour, treadplates, ‘100’ welcome lamps and embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems
    • Anniversary coincides with important moment in Bentley history
    • Bentley Zurich has been operated by Schmohl AG since 1950

    [source: Bentley]

    Münich, Germany –  Bentley Motors is celebrating the centenary of its retail partner in Zurich, Schmohl AG, with a quartet of luxury cars. The uniquely-styled 100 Anniversary Collection is based on four Bentley models – the Bentayga S luxury SUV, the Flying Spur Speed four-door sedan, as well as the Continental GT and GTC Speed definitive grand tourers.

    Each example is handcrafted in Crewe, England, by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house personalisation and bespoke department. For the 100 Anniversary Collection range, Mulliner has developed a new Slate Blue Metallic exterior paint and matching Slate Blue Metallic Styling Specification, with personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps. The Flying Spur Speed, GT and GTC Speed examples also benefit from a bootlid spoiler. Personalised ‘100’ welcome lamps greet both driver and passengers as they step in or out of the 100 Anniversary Collection models.

    Inside each exquisitely appointed cabin, the 100 Anniversary Collection cars are crafted with Cognac main hide and Beluga secondary hide, with Diamond Quilt contrast stitching. Personalised embroidered ‘100’ headrest emblems adorn the seats, while Piano Black over Copper Stone dual finish veneer complements the dashboard and doors, with Diamond Knurling Specification to brightwork as standard. 

    Talking about the centenary, Roderick Pike, General Manager of Bentley Zurich, explains: 

    “A centenary is a key milestone and a special celebration. Schmohl AG was formed in 1923, the same year the Bentley 3 Litre became the brand’s first car to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, setting the fastest lap in the process. The new 100 Anniversary Collection cars reflect a proud partnership with Bentley, offering unique features to honour our special relationship.”

    Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Motors Europe, added:

    “We are delighted to be celebrating this milestone with Bentley Zurich who have been with us since 1950. Switzerland is an important market for Bentley Motors Europe and with this collection we honour and highlight our achievements over the years. At the same time, with our Beyond100 strategy we are also looking forward towards an electrified range by 2024.”

  • Ferrari SP-8: F8 Spider-Derived Roadster Is Latest On-Off from Maranello

    Ferrari SP-8: F8 Spider-Derived Roadster Is Latest On-Off from Maranello

    • The wraps are off the new Ferrari One-Off designed to a client’s specifications
    • The SP-8 is an uncompromising thoroughbred roadster crafted on the F8 Spider architecture
    • It will be possible to admire the SP-8 at the Ferrari Finali Mondiali and later at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello

    [source: Ferrari]

    Maranello, 24 October 2023 – Ferrari today unveiled the latest addition to its One-Off series, theFerrari SP-8. Part of the marque’s Special Projects programme and designed by the Flavio Manzoni-headed Ferrari Styling Centre, it is a mid-rear-engined V8 based on the F8 Spider from which it inherits its layout, chassis and engine. The SP-8 one-off joins the hallowed ranks of the most exclusive segment in the Ferrari range, unique cars crafted around individual clients’ specifications, with the result that they embody the very pinnacle of Prancing Horse customisation. 

    The car’s name celebrates its 3.9-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, one of the most critically-acclaimed power units in history and the winner of the prestigious Engine of the Year (IEOTY) award on four consecutive occasions. As the client that commissioned the SP-8 hails from Taiwan, the number 8 is also significant as it considered extremely lucky in Chinese culture, traditionally auguring success, good fortune and personal achievement. 

    The SP-8’s most unique feature is the fact that it has no roof, making it a thoroughbred two-seater roadster in every respect, underscoring its sporty character and the instantly exhilarating visual and en plein air driving experience it delivers. This solution demanded extensive refining of its aerodynamics through a combination of CFD simulations, wind tunnel testing and track testing to guarantee a standard of acoustic comfort and wind feeling comparable to the car that inspired it. 

    The car’s main styling theme centres around the way in which its volumes crossover and fuse into one another: the unpainted carbon-fibre front wraps around to the tail, creating a two-tone effect that creates a powerful contrast in terms of both colour and materials. The elimination of the retractable hard top allowed the designers to radically restyle the entire tail section, giving it a full volume with a taut belt line. The car’s volume is divided into two parts which are connected by a functional central area in matte black that includes the side air intakes with separate ducts for the intercoolers and engine. The upper section of this band incorporates a vent for the engine compartment with longitudinal elements that reference the lateral strakes typical of Ferraris of the past. 

    Dominating the front of the car is an imposing full-width, cast aluminium grille made from a single, 3D-printed mould. The grille features the same strake theme, this time in a vertical movement, with the spacing in plan view gradually widening towards the flanks to better channel air flow to the two front radiators. The angling of these elements was optimised by the close collaboration between the Ferrari Styling Centre and the aerodynamics team that spent months honing the car using CFD. 

    Other areas of the SP-8 that were redesigned from the donor car include the headlights, which have special masks and lenses, the rear lights derived from those of the Roma with specific lenses, the windscreen, the tailpipes, which were given the same treatment as the 296 GTB’s, and the specially-designed wheel rims in a dedicated colour (matte Grigio NART). 

    These directional five-spoke wheels are exclusive to this particular car and offer a modern take on the classic rims used on Ferrari Sports Prototypes as well as the legendary F40. A clever and inextricable part of their overall aesthetic are their heavily sculpted sections and large apertures designed to make them lighter. 

    Inside the car, an important modification has been made to the central console to house the F1 gearbox commands that have featured in the Ferrari range since the debut of the SF90 Stradale. This meant modifying the now iconic shift-gate for this specific application. The interior finish is completed with seats featuring details in laser-etched Navy Blue Alcantara® coupled with gradient effect cloth, and carpets in specific twill fabric with an iridescent effect.

    The matte Argento Micalizzato colour created specifically for the SP-8 pairs brilliantly with the car’s carbon-fibre section, which has an equally specific colour and finish (glossy iridescent Blue Sandstone). Even the Blu Scuro Stellato colour used to link the two bodywork sections was specifically developed. 

    The SP-8 will be on display from the morning of the 24th of October at the Mugello Circuit until the end of the Finali Mondiali Ferrari 2023. Thereafter, it will be displayed at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello from November 16, 2023 until March 2024. 

    SPECIAL PROJECTS

    The Special Projects programme is aimed at creating unique Ferraris (so-called “One-Offs”) characterised by an exclusive design crafted to the requirements of the client, who thus becomes the owner of a one-of-a-kind model. Each project originates from an idea put forward by the client and is developed hand-in-glove with a team of designers from Ferrari’s Styling Centre. Once the car’s proportion and forms have been defined, detailed design blueprints and a styling buck are produced before the manufacturing process for the new One-Off begins. The entire process takes around two years on average, during which time the client is closely involved in assessing the design and verification phases. The result? A unique Ferrari sporting the Prancing Horse logo and engineered to the same standards of excellence that characterise all of Maranello’s cars.

  • Bentley Presents Mulliner Styling Packages for Latest Continental GT V8 Models in Europe

    Bentley Presents Mulliner Styling Packages for Latest Continental GT V8 Models in Europe

    • Five unique “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages celebrate the individualization of the ultimate Bentley Continental GT – the last Grand Tourer with a V8 engine
    • The new packages include special exterior colors that are tailored to either the performance or the Luxury specification
    • The Mulliner styling packages further refine the Continental GT and enable even more individual equipment of the vehicles

    [source: Bentley]

    (Munich, 24. October 2023)

    Bentley Motors Europe has announced that the order of derivatives of the Continental GT and GTC with the V8 engine will be completed by mid-November. This is in line with the Beyond100 strategy, which provides that by 2025, a hybrid option will be available for each model series. The V8 engine is still available in other markets. To mark this milestone, the designers of Mulliner have created impressive design themes that underline the positioning of the S and Azure derivatives that can be configured as additional equipment for the latest Continental GT V8s.

    The five interior packages “Curated by Mulliner” reflect the strong customer demand for a custom design of the Continental GT and represent a unique opportunity to give Bentley’s ultimate Grand Tourer a personal touch. Inspired by vivid color accents found in nature, these special packages are available to Bentley customers in Europe – the Continental GT region.

    The styling packages were put together by Bentley’s finishing department Mulliner, based in Crewe, England. They are available for all model variants of the Continental GT V8 and Continental GTC V8 – including the comfort-oriented Azure and performance-oriented S. Customers can supplement the selected styling package for the interior with a colour-matched styling package for the exterior.

    The “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages take into account the ongoing demand from Bentley customers for a custom design of their vehicles – a trend that has become increasingly popular since the introduction of the first Continental GT 20 years ago. Each styling package should inspire the customer to create his very own dream version of the Continental GT. The dynamic colours Key Lime, Vivid Red, Mandarin, Klein Blue and Turquoise are offered. Each styling package can be complemented with additional options to complement Bentley’s ultimate
    Grand Tourer even further.

    Each of the five packages is based on a motif from nature. Key Lime was inspired by lively citrus pigments that invigorate the interior of the vehicle. Designed for the performance-oriented models GT S and GTC S, Vivid Red is based on the tin-red pigments obtained in the Aeolian landscapes. Mandarin, on the other hand, testifies to the rich shades that can be found in spectacular areas such as the Icelandic Magmac craters or the Namib desert. Klein Blue fits perfectly with the well-being-oriented Azure models and goes back to nuances abstracted from elements of hypernature. Finally, Turquoise refers to the cyan-blue depths of the Icelandic seas and the radiance of the Aurora Borealis at night.

    Distinctive color accents from the styling packages tastefully emphasize key elements in the interior of each of the “Curated by Mulliner” vehicles. These elements include the contrasting steering wheel spokes or the gear lever, rounded off by colour-matched contrasting lines on the handcrafted veneer. The seats, held in Mulliner color combinations, are harmoniously complemented by Mulliner floor mats with contrasting micro-keeds in the chosen accent color. Passengers are welcomed by a welcome light “Curated by Mulliner” in the Continental GT when boarding and disembarking. The optional styling package for the exterior, which is only available in conjunction with the styling package for the interior, continues the chosen color theme with accent lines on exterior mirrors and body kit.

    The “Curated by Mulliner” styling packages further refine the interior. A diamond kerling gives the metal elements of the dashboard a jewel-like look, while the “Mood Lighting Specification” allows the color and intensity of the lighting in the interior to be controlled.

    The Bentley Rotating Display offers three different instrument variants to choose from. In addition, the styling packages also include chrome-plated kee on the instrument panel and an LED welcome light as well as – for the S version of the Continental GT and the Continental GTC – also a “Leather Specification”. The styling package for the exterior is emphasized by the “Styling Specification” as well as by self-aligning wheel emblems.

  • Trio of Bentley Models Take Center Stage at the Zoute Grand Prix on the Belgian Riviera

    Trio of Bentley Models Take Center Stage at the Zoute Grand Prix on the Belgian Riviera

    • Limited Edition Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 celebrates end of an era for Bentley’s iconic W12 engine 
    • Final Speed Edition 12 cars feature unique fascia engine display and commemorative scale model of legendary W12 engine
    • Bentayga EWB First Edition and Continental GTC Mulliner V8 also displayed at Belgian Riviera event

    [source: Bentley]

    Münich, Germany – Bentley Brussels, Knokke and Antwerp will showcase one of the final vehicles to be fitted with the luxury British automotive brand’s legendary W12 engine at the Zoute Grand Prix, a week-long series of exclusive automotive activities held on the Belgian Riviera. 

    The full Bentley range will be displayed at the Prado, a Bentayga EWB, a Continental GTC as well as a Flying Spur Speed Edition 12. The Flying Spur Speed Edition 12 is one of the only 120 examples to be built, a supremely powerful sedan that pays homage to Bentley’s 6.0-litre W12 unit, which is due to end production in 2024 and ordering in a few weeks in Europe.

    The W12 engine ensures the Flying Spur Speed 12 is one of the fastest, four-door sedans in the world. Capable of 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 333 km/h, the phenomenal W12 also produces 659 PS and 900 Nm of torque. First introduced in the original Continental GT in 2003, the engine has since become an icon of Bentley’s DNA.

    A genuine collector’s car, the Flying Spur Speed 12 Edition is also afforded a range of unique commemorative features. The dashboard fascia displays a visual representation of the W12’s firing sequence, while every owner will receive a scale model of the engine, handcrafted from a genuine recycled W12 block and housed in a special presentation case. A full-size example of a W12 engine itself will be on show alongside the Flying Spur Speed Edition 12.

    Bentley will also showcase the Bentayga EWB First Edition V8, in eye-catching Pale Brodgar (palebrodgar; metallic UNI; 6754 / 9560180; Bentley) over Brodgar (brodgar; metallic UNI; 6753 / 9560179; Bentley) two-tone paintwork. Inside, the luxurious SUV features a colour split interior of Portland and Burnt Oak hide, with Dark Stained Burr Walnut veneer. A Continental GT Convertible Mulliner V8 will complete the trio of Bentley models. This open-air tourer is painted in Onyx, complemented by a Cambric lightweight cotton interior in Linen, with contrasting Beluga hide, finished with a Grand Black with Diamond Milled trim.

    All visitors are welcome to the Bentley stand at the Zoute Grand Prix in Knokke-Heist, Belgium, which is taking place from October 5 – 8.

    Bentley is represented in Belgium by D’Ietern Luxury Performance Group and operates from Bentley Antwerp, Bentley Brussels and Bentley Knokke.

  • The Lancia Delta Safarista by Automobili Amos

    The Lancia Delta Safarista by Automobili Amos

    [source: Automobili Amos]

    Functionality and durability over aesthetics: this is the leitmotif that led us during the development of the car.

    At the same time, we’ve always felt that racing features enable that functional-look that we love and find beautiful.

    We tried to put all the racing know-how of Podium Advanced Technology and the taste of BorromeoDeSilva in place in order to completely reshape the content of the Lancia Delta modified by Automobili Amos, known as “Futurista”, and take it on another level of performance and driving pleasure to satisfy the requests of our most demanding customers.

    The AAmici community

    Our dream has always been to create a community of different people who share the same visceral love for cars, to create a sense of belonging to the AAmici community, born jokingly through an Instagram hashtag.

    From our point of view, too often cars are bought as trophies rather than as objects capable of making their owners live unforgettable experiences, and it is through this new Project that we want to create a community of like-minded people who can share the sense of adventure around the world, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

    The car, in this case, is the enabler that allows to share the experience but not the objective of the Project.

    «no matter where, but how and with whom»

    Our goal with the “Safarista” program is being able to offer to our customers a non-competitive experience to enable them to safely reach their limits and those of their car, surrounded by incredible nature contexts from Sweden ice-ring to the dunes of Arabia.

    Few but good travel companions, full and hassle free logistic, astonishing scenarios and the roar of the engines: this is the way we love to enjoy our passion.

    Price: 570k€ + VAT

    Production numbers: up to 10 cars

    Delivery: 2023-2024

    Donor car: Lancia Delta Integrale 16V

    Exterior:

    • 3-doors shape
    • Custom wheels
    • New front & rear bumpers
    • New front fenders
    • New sidepod
    • Central exhaust pipe
    • New wing
    • Lower front and rear shields
    • Mud flaps

    Interior:

    • 2 seats configuration
    • Motorsport pedal set
    • Motorsport steering wheel with snap-off
    • Racing button box
    • Carbon rear tub with spare wheel

    Chassis, gearbox & electronics:

    • Sequential gearbox & Motorsport differentials

    Engine:

    • Engine fully upgraded by Autotecnica
    • Upgraded water and oil cooling systems
    • Upgraded air intake by K&N

    Brake & suspensions

    • Hydraulic handbrake
    • Adjustable suspension derived from motorsport
    • Motorsport brakes with steel brake discs

    Safety

    • Full bucket seats
    • 4 or 5 points harnesses
    • Fire extinguisher
    • Motorsport tank
    • Full rollbar
  • Unique Extras Delivered with Each Continental GT Le Mans Collection Model

    Unique Extras Delivered with Each Continental GT Le Mans Collection Model

    • First of 24 GT coupes destined for Europe hits the road in Germany
    • Each car is delivered to its owner with unique extras: special wooden handover box with unique Speed 8 sculpture and booklet, Speed 8 book as well as special car cover
    • GT Le Mans Collection marks 20th anniversary of Bentley’s sixth victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans – the world’s most iconic endurance race
    • Unique features include Bentley Rotating Display housing valve from engine of 2003 Le Mans winning Bentley #7 Speed 8
    • GT Le Mans Collection handcrafted in England by Mulliner – Bentley’s personal commissioning division 

    Münich, Germany – The first of 24 Bentley Continental GT Le Mans Collection models for Europe is hitting the continent’s roads for the first time in Dusseldorf, Germany. The full collection of 48 limited edition Continental GT and GTC cars are being handcrafted in England by Mulliner, Bentley’s personal commissioning division, with just 24 coupes destined for European customers. 

    All GT Le Mans Collection owners will receive a unique car cover as well as a special wooden presentation box, crafted in Piano Black and Verdant – the same as the car itself. Inside, the box contains the car key, as well as an exclusive Speed 8 sculpture and booklet, detailing how the sculpture was made. A plaque inside the lid is signed by Adrian Hallmark, Chairman and CEO, Bentley Motors, and Ansar Ali, Mulliner and Motorsport Director, Bentley Motors.

    The box is complemented by a Speed 8 book, written by automotive expert Andrew Cotton. Published by Sportfahrer, the fascinating hardback reveals the full history of the Speed 8 race car project, from the first concept to Bentley’s Le Mans success. With a whole chapter dedicated to Shaun Lynn’s Speed 8 car restoration, the book features a green cover with a silver 2003 wreath, identifying it as unique to the Le Mans Collection.

    The GT Le Mans Collection marks the 20th anniversary of Bentley’s sixth victory at the world’s most iconic road race, with the Bentley #7 Speed 8 taking the chequered flag in 2003. This year is also the centenary of the first 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1923, when Bentley recorded the fastest lap. 

    Like the coupe in Dusseldorf, each GT Le Mans Collection car is delivered with unique features. The Bentley Rotating Display on the dashboard houses a valve from the engine of the 2003 Le Mans winning #7 Speed 8, while evocative exterior styling includes Verdant green paintwork and a Moonbeam racing stripe. A No. 7 emblem on the grille also celebrates the 2003 victory.

    Other bespoke details range from the six-wreath emblem inlaid into the high-gloss carbon fibre fascia, marking each of the six outright victories recorded by Bentley at Le Mans from 1924 to 2003, to the Bentley matrix grille, originally designed to protect the radiator on the unpaved Le Mans racetrack of the 1920s. Inside, a luxurious Le Mans Collection cockpit is trimmed with Beluga hide, while the standard 12-hour analogue clock is replaced with a bespoke, 24-hour dial design. 

    Race-inspired performance comes from Bentley’s renowned 6.0-litre W12 TSI engine, delivering 659 PS (650 bhp) and an extraordinary 900 Nm (664 lb.ft) of torque. This results in a top speed of 208 mph (335 km/h) and 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds).

    Balazs Rooz, Regional Director of Bentley Europe, added:

    “Following the recent static European debut of the GT Le Mans Collection at the Le Mans Classic event, I am delighted to see this limited edition now being delivered to our happy  few customers. The brand has played a key role in Europe’s motoring history and in the W12 run out phase, it is a nice farewell and homage to the Speed 8 #7 win in 2003, the same year when the W12 was launched to the world.”

  • Ferrari Tailor Made 812 Competizione

    Ferrari Tailor Made 812 Competizione

    A Ferrari with a unique perspective to be auctioned for charity.

    Monterey (California, USA), Aug. 19, 2023 – At an exclusive event held at Casa Ferrari during Monterey Car Week and broadcast via live streaming, the Maranello-based company unveiled a one-of-a-kind Ferrari 812 Competizione. Without precedent, this Tailor Made car was inspired by the concept of a blank sheet, which is how the Ferrari Styling Centre starts its creative research for every new model.

    The car the Tailor Made concept is applied to is one of just 999 Ferrari 812 Competiziones, a limited and extremely exclusive series intended for collectors and enthusiasts of the world’s most exciting twelve-cylinder. It is distinguished by a commemorative plaque affixed to the interior as a testament to its original inspiration.

    The Tailor Made 812 Competizione presented today was commissioned by Ferrari North America and will be auctioned at the Ferrari Gala to be held in New York City on October 17 at the culmination of an exclusive event aimed at celebrating the Maranello-based company’s unique community and passion for the brand. All proceeds will be donated to charity as part of the education support projects that have been the focal point of the Prancing Horse’s charitable activities.

    The process of developing the craftsmanship techniques used to create such original and creative patterns took over a year of close collaboration between the Styling Centre and the Tailor Made team, which handles the most innovative personalisation projects at Ferrari. The main challenge was to seek the perfect balance between flawless technical realization and maintaining the creative spark and artistic craftsmanship that flow from Ferrari Chief Design Officer, Flavio Manzoni’s drawings, which provided the inspiration for this model with its unique details.

    The car, in fact, has been imagined as one of the now iconic yellow cards on which Maranello designers transfer their first ideas, insights and notes from mind to paper and on which – iteration after iteration, detail after detail, idea after idea – new concepts, unique stylistic features and shapes are composed that will become part of the history of Italian automotive design.

    On the car, in matte Giallo Tristrato, the lines composed by the designer who imagined the elegant and sporty forms of the 812 Competizione and its most iconic details have been traced in matte Nero DS Sketch. Notable among them are the carbon fibre blade that cuts across the horizontal plane of the front bonnet acting as an air intake for the engine, the characteristic louvres on the side – a tribute to the best twelve-cylinder Ferrari tradition – as well as the vortex generators on the rear screen devoid of glass, replaced by a concealed rear-view camera.

    The same concept is echoed in the interior. The new-generation Alcantara® that covers the cockpit of this 812 Competizione, composed of 65 percent recycled polyester and presented as a world premiere on Ferrari Purosangue, is embellished with design sketches that have been embroidered directly onto it using a highly innovative technique. This is a truly unique solution, as Ferrari usually employs leather for this kind of custom motif. Completing the elegant interior trim is the black trilobal Superfabric® used for the carpet and rear wall of the passenger compartment. 

    The 812 Competizione, dedicated to a small group of collectors and purists of the noblest Ferrari tradition, aims for maximum performance without leaving room for compromise. Innovative technological concepts have enabled it to reach new performance heights, making the model ideal for the unlimited wealth of combinations and possibilities offered by the Ferrari Tailor Made program.

    On the 812 Competizione, the driver, both on the road and on the track, becomes one with the car, which guarantees immediate responsiveness to the controls and total control even in the most complex manoeuvres. Driving thrills are always at the highest level thanks to the contribution of the independent four-wheel steering system, which gives it agility and cornering precision, and the most exciting 830-hp V12 on the world automotive scene. The engine pairs impressive power with exhilarating delivery and the sound that Maranello’s 12-cylinder purists know so well.

    FERRARI TAILOR MADE

    Ferrari Tailor Made is Ferrari’s exclusive programme dedicated to those who wish to personalise every area of their Ferrari to create a car that thoroughly reflects their character and personal tastes. Customers who join the programme are assisted by a team of experts and guided by a personal designer who interprets their wishes while respecting the brand’s aesthetic standards.

  • One-of-One Bentley GT Speed Celebrates 20 Years of Continental Success at Monterey Car Week

    One-of-One Bentley GT Speed Celebrates 20 Years of Continental Success at Monterey Car Week

    • Mulliner creates a modern interpretation of the original Continental GT
    • Unique car brings 20th birthday celebrations to a close
    • 2023 Continental GT Speed inspired by the specification of the very first production Continental GT from 2003
    • One-of-one car sold to American collector
    • Both cars displayed at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering as part of Monterey Car Week
    • Celebratory ‘baton’ starts 20-stop global tour, connecting 20 individual Continental GT reviews

    Crewe, England – Bentley Motors brought the 20th birthday celebrations of its now-iconic Continental GT to a close with the reveal and immediate sale of a one-of-one Continental GT Speed, with a specification inspired by that of the very first production Continental GT from 2003. The muse for the project – VIN20001, the first GT off the Crewe production line – was displayed alongside the 2023 version at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, also celebrating its 20th birthday and an ongoing part of Monterey Car Week.

    Having redefined the Bentley brand for the 21st century when it was launched in 2003, catalysing a ten-fold increase in sales, the Continental GT continues to be the benchmark for modern, luxury grand tourers. The first production car – the most important modern car in Bentley’s rejuvenated Heritage Collection – was finished in Cypress Green (cypressgreen; metallic UNI; 6604 / 9560119; Bentley) paint, with an interior of Saddle leather upholstery and Burr Walnut veneer. The bespoke 2023 Continental GT Speed displays a specially commissioned interior inspired by that of its illustrious forbear.

    While Saddle leather and Burr Walnut veneer feature in both cabins, the third-generation model features subtle enhancements of the original model’s theme. The rich Saddle colour is complemented by an accent hide in ‘Special Green’, with contrast stitching in the same shade throughout. The fascia and waist rails feature two different veneer finishes – open pore Dark Burr Walnut over high gloss Dark Burr Walnut – separated by a painted pinstripe in Cypress, connecting the interior with the exterior.

    An extensive list of features includes the Blackline, Touring and Styling Specifications – together bringing polished black exterior brightware, a suite of technical enhancements and a carbon fibre front splitter, side skirts, diffuser and subtle boot lip spoiler respectively. Self-levelling Mulliner wheel badges finished the 22” Sports Wheels in unique Dark Grey Satin. The interior features Naim for Bentley audio and the Bentley Rotating Display, while the personalised treadplates read, ’20 years of the Continental GT by Bentley Mulliner’. Outline representations of the 2003 and 2023 Continental GTs feature on the fascia, centre console and outer sill. This celebratory one-of-one car has already been sold, was handed to its new owner at The Quail, and represents the highlight of four months of activities and events to celebrate this milestone in Bentley’s history.

    20 Years and three generations

    The impact of the first-generation Continental GT was seismic, not only redefining Bentley as a modern luxury brand but also creating a new market sector. The first all-new Bentley with no carried-over components since the original 3 Litre of 2019, the Continental GT was designed at the Crewe studio under then Design Director Dirk van Braeckel and Head of Exterior Design Raul Pires. The sleek lines of Bentley’s new grand tourer were inspired by those of the 1952 R Type Continental, with a Bentley ‘powerline’ that starts low at the front and follows the shoulder line of the bonnet and door before meeting a muscular rear haunch. Twin round headlamps and a Bentley mesh grille gave a subtle nod to the company’s thunderous Le Mans-winning racers of the 1920s.

    Under the bonnet was an all-new 6.0-litre twin-turbo 48-valve W12 engine. This compact, smooth and powerful design developed 550 bhp and 650 Nm, powering all four wheels via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration from 0-62 mph took 4.8 seconds and top speed was a shade under 200 mph.

    During the seven years the first-generation Continental GT remained in production it sired a family of models including the Continental GT Convertible, Continental Flying Spur, Continental GT Speed and Supersports.

    Arrival of the V8

    The second-generation Continental GT, launched in 6.0-litre W12 form at the Paris Motor Show in 2010, also saw the arrival of a second all-new Bentley engine. The efficient and charismatic 4.0-litre V8, which made its debut in 2012, endowed the Continental GT with an eager, agile and responsive character, accompanied by a characterful V8 exhaust backbeat. In 2017 the line-up was joined by the limited edition 710PS Supersports, its conception inspired by the Team Bentley racing GT3.

    2018: the third generation

    Bentley’s third generation Continental GT was launched in 2018. An entirely new design, its sharper, sleeker lines took full advantage of a new, purpose-designed platform. Even its W12 engine was all-new, paired with a new dual-clutch transmission. Highlights of the new model’s specification included three-chamber air springs and 48V electric active anti-roll control, while the on-board technology took a major leap forward thanks to all-new electrical architecture. It was simultaneously faster, more comfortable, more efficient and more luxurious than its predecessors – yet unmistakably still a Continental GT.

    Around the world in 20 reviews

    A Bentley ‘baton’, designed and created in house to represent the key lines of the Continental GT, visited Monterey to start a global journey – travelling in a variety of Continental GT models across Europe, the Middle East, China, Asia Pacific and the US before returning to Crewe. At journey’s end at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, the baton – which will contain 20 mementoes of the tour – will become a time capsule as a permanent reminder of a unique journey.