2010 Bentley Azure Convertible VIN. SCBDC47L49CX14020 Engine no. 201646

2010 Bentley Azure Convertible
VIN. SCBDC47L49CX14020
Engine no. 201646

6,750cc OHV V8 Engine
Twin Turbochargers and Electronic Engine Management
450bhp at 4,100rpm
6-Speed ZF 6HP-32 Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Ventilated Disc Brakes

* Only 6,674 miles shown at cataloguing
* Stunning Beluga Black paintwork over Linen hides with a Black soft top
* Offered in great condition, with a clean CARFAX
* Original MSRP of $354,055
* The last of the Crewe built production series
* Breathtaking 450bhp and 645 lb-ft of torque

THE BENTLEY AZURE

As owners of Bentley Motors since 1998, Volkswagen kept the existing Continental R-based Azure convertible in production until 2003 but delayed introducing its successor for a further three years. Production of the new Azure thus began for the 2006 model year and was based on the more modern Arnage platform. The latter had been built in two forms: Green Label (with BMW power) and Red Label with the long-running Rolls-Royce/Bentley 6.75-liter pushrod V8. A legacy of the Rolls-Royce/Bentley takeover battle with BMW, Volkswagen's use of its German rival's engines could only be a temporary measure, so the 'old' Bentley V8 was called up for duty, suitably up rated with twin turbochargers for the new Azure convertible. As well as the twin turbochargers, replacing the single unit used previously, this venerable engine was extensively reworked, Bentley claiming that more than half the parts were new. In this form it produced 450bhp and a mighty 645lb/ft of torque, while a new ZF six-speed automatic transmission fed this abundance of power to the rear wheels. Bentley claimed a 0-60mph (0-97km/h) acceleration time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 168mph (270 km/h), slightly faster than the previous model and still incredible for a vehicle of its ample size and weight. "In a word, wonderful," was how Autocar magazine greeted the new Azure, which was also reckoned "notably better for the new gearbox. Overall, it's amazing how much difference a decent auto 'box can make."

But Bentley was not done with the Azure yet. In 2009, the Azure T debuted with an additional 50hp on tap bringing total output to 500bhp, while torque rose to an even 1,000Nm (738 ft-lbs), capable of propelling the massive four-seat convertible to an astonishing 180mph. The 2010 model year marked the end of the line for Bentley's flagship Azure, and with no true successor, it remains a glorious monument to the incredible longevity of the mighty pushrod V8 engine.

THE CAR OFFERED

Beautifully presented in Beluga Black over Linen hides and a Black top, this stunning Bentley Azure represents the pinnacle of the enduring Rolls-Royce/Bentley pushrod V8 series. In this ultimate spec, it thumps out 450 horsepower and 645lb-ft of torque, imparting the opulent, nearly 3-ton Bentley with astonishing performance. This example hails from one of the final years of production, and is a gorgeous sight to behold.

This Azure has covered a mere 6,674 miles at the time of cataloguing, which is backed by a clean CARFAX report. The CARFAX additionally shows that ownership can be traced to Texas, and shows that the car has been regularly serviced. It has been maintained in outstanding condition, which is reflective of its exceptionally low mileage. With an original window sticker price of $354,055; options on this Bentley include chromed 19-inch alloy wheels, reverse camera, wood and leather steering wheel, stainless steel matrix grills, chromed radiator shell, chromed door mirror caps and veneered surround for the cruise control.

The epitome of British luxury motoring, this Azure represents the last of a great line of pushrod V8-powered Bentleys. A superlative example in virtually every respect, it is now ready for a new custodian to waft along on an ocean of torque, while being cosseted by the finest leather, wood, and wool. A wonderful opportunity to own a low mileage example of one of the final production series Bentley's built at Crewe.