1999 Bentley Arnage Green Label

The Bentley Arnage was launched in 1998, replacing the Bentley 'Turbo' which had offered sterling service for many years. Built by Bentley Motors in Crewe, from 1998 to 2009, the Arnage and its Rolls-Royce sibling, the Silver Seraph, were introduced in the Spring of 1998, and were the first entirely new designs for the two marques since 1980 when the Silver Spirit and Mulsanne models had been introduced. The new Arnage was designed to be powered by a new state-of-the-art BMW V8 engine with Cosworth-engineered twin-turbochargers and was designated the Arnage 'Green Label'. The Arnage 'Red Label' was launched in October 1999, and for a number of reasons, reverted back to Bentley power using the traditional V8 engine with a displacement of 6,750cc.With a modest 47,000 on its odometer, this lovely Arnage gives an impression of unmolested integrity with classic style and unmatched presence. The whisper smooth BMW V8 is almost inaudible at idle and with the merest whiff of throttle will accelerate strongly and silently, the five-speed gearbox making light of the car's 350bhp, and whistling this substantial saloon up to nearly 150mph. We are told by the vendor that this particular car drives superbly and has been enjoyed on a couple of recent continental trips. Even when being driven in a spirited fashion, this car maintains its composure, the handling is firm and predictable, whilst the brakes are reported to operate with superb urgency. Cast your eyes down the sides of this beautiful luxury saloon and you're presented with straight, well fitting panels with excellent shut lines and the doors close with that reassuring 'thunk' always associated with big Bentleys. The distinctive front grille presents well and is matched by the gleaming bright work and lovely paint finish. The interior appears in first class condition throughout, with excellent veneers, acres of beautiful magnolia leather showing little sign of wear, good carpets, and rear seats that look as if they have barely been used. We understand that all the instruments spring to life at the turn of the key and all the warning lights go out immediately.

We believe that this lovely Arnage has been enjoyed by five previous keepers and with the car, there is a list of services and MoTs, the latter showing mileages of 32,852 on 20/07/2006 going up by small increments to 39,192 on 25/03/2014. The current owner has a number of proper motor cars and services and maintains them himself, a task of which he is eminently capable.

The vendor is a good friend of Silverstone Auctions and purchased this Bentley from us about three years ago at which point the mileage was a warranted 39,600, and when MoT'd on February 24th the odometer indicated 46,858. He informs us that during those enjoyable 7,000 miles the only issue was a failed Oil-Pressure Transducer which was quickly replaced and tested. As well as that Test Report, the car is accompanied by its service history, log books, MoT Certificate, and an owner's manual on CD.

These cars represent the epitome of British luxury with enormous 'kerbside' appeal. It is difficult to imagine a vehicle that, in terms of style, performance, looks and sheer presence, offers better value for money.