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2005 Bentley Arnage Preview

Perfection in Process

Ultra-premium marques such as Rolls-Royce and Bentley dont update their models as often as economy brands, but the latter of the two is starting to buck old trends. After doffing conservative old Rolls-Royce, Bentley is beginning to spread its legendary wings.

Its Continental GT has seriously ruffled exotic feathers at Newport Pagnell, still upstaging Aston Martins new DB9 even though it was introduced almost a year prior. Bentley went and trounced its competition yet further by pricing the new model too close to the entry-levels of most exotic brands for comfort.

While the multi-award-winning GT is gorgeous, a revitalized Arnage is at least as important from a business perspective.

Bentley is breaking out of the traditional ultra-premium mold, updating their models more often and aggressively selling them at lower prices. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

I previously have had the pleasure of piloting the luxury biased R and sport-oriented T during the model year 2003 media launch in California, and can attest to both models unsurpassed capabilities.

But as exciting as either Arnage was to drive, what stole my heart initially was their classic styling. While still pulling classic cues, the 2005 Arnage streamlines the look further with

While still pulling classic cues, the 2005 Arnage streamlines the look further. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

a sculpted wrap-around front fascia-fender assembly and exposed xenon low and halogen high beam quad headlamps, losing the glass covered beams in the process. The new car also leaves behind the large vertical turn signals at each front corner, but rather integrates them into the outside headlights for a much cleaner appearance.

New bumpers that incorporate headlamp power-washers that retract away "invisibly" when not in use, are elegantly simple while Bentley now offers the choice of either a matrix or

The new bumpers, with retractable power headlamp washers, are elegantly simple. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

vaned pattern on the updated radiator grille. The hood bulges at center more so than last years car, melding more fluidly with the radiator shell while setting up the ideal backdrop for Bentleys new two-tone paint scheme.

Its profile and rear end designs are pretty well identical to the current car, excepting new wheels for all trim levels in the former and a splash of chrome surrounding the license plate indent on the Arnage R with regards to the latter. But giving the Bentley a mere facelift is fine with me, as its backside is among the most well proportioned in the auto business.

Opposite to the norm, Bentley proudly shows off the Arnages polished aluminum engine, and covers the surrounding clutter. (Photo: Bentley Motors) align="justify">The engine is as beautifully displayed as its power is awe-inspiring to contemplate. Bucking a trend of covering mechanicals with a sculpted shroud, something that started in the premium class, Bentley veils the less appealing open area of the engine bay and through the center exposes enough polished aluminum to make a hotrod buff salivate.

Behind the glimmering shell beats the heart of all Bentleys for the last 50 years, a thundering V8. Actually, the current 6.75-L engine dates back to the 1950s, albeit thoroughly updated with twin-turbochargers for previously unfathomable output figures while meeting modern day emissions

Unbelievable levels of handcrafted care and attention are liberally on display throughout the Arnage. (Photo: Bentley Motors)

standards - EU4 in Europe and LEV in North America. The result of its 2002 makeover produced 400 horsepower and 616 lb-ft of torque in R and RL trim, for 60 mph sprints in about 6 seconds and a top speed-limited velocity of 155 mph. An even more impressive 450 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque is available when under the hood of the Arnage T, resulting an even more throttling 5.4 seconds to 60 mph and a free-revving top speed of 168mph. The acceleration is staggering, even factoring in the Bentleys healthy curb weight.

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