BENTLEY ARNAGE
Bentley Arnage was a full-size luxury sedan produced by Bentley Motors in England from 1998 to 2009. The premium D+ segment car was the first new model from the stables of this luxury car maker after 1980. Targeted at the elite segment of society, sedan this fulfilled the basic criteria of being a power-packed vehicle that exuded luxury.
The car was available in three variants, which include Arnage R, RL and T. The first two variants were loaded with 6.75 L V8 engine that was capable of churning out power output of 450 bhp at 4100 rpm and had torque of 875 Nm at 1800 rpm. On the other hand, the sporty Arnage T had been assimilated with a 6.75 L V8 engine, which generates 505 bhp power at 4200 rpm and had maximum torque of 1001 Nm at 3,200 rpm.
The Arnage, extending 5 m in length and 1.9 m in width, weighed close to 2.5 metric tonnes. At the time of its launch, the premium sedan was the most powerful and fastest four-door saloon in the market. Bentley Motors Company, the British automaker, ceased production of Bentley Arnage cars in the year 2009.
Bentley Arnage Launch History
Bentley Motors Limited, a British subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, entered the automobile business in the year 1919. Owned by Volkswagen Group of Germany since 1998, Bentley Motors Limited is counted among the most distinguished luxury car brands globally. Bentley Arnage car was its luxury 4-door sedan, introduced by the car maker in the year 1998. The model was available in three variants, which were appreciated for their tremendous power output and sporty looks.
Bentley Arnage Variants (Models)
The three variants of Bentley Arnage are detailed below:
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Variants
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Features
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Bentley Arnage R
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Bentley Arnage R was loaded with a 6.75 L V8 engine that had the capacity to deliver maximum power of 450 bhp. This variant has several comfort as well as safety features. Some of the highlights of this premium sedan are rear quarter panel marque badges, black exterior marque badging, all-steel monocoque bodyshell of high torsional rigidity and double-sided zinc coated skin panels.
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Bentley Arnage RL
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Bentley Arnage RL was the second variant belonging to the Arnage family. An aesthetic illustration on wheels, this car carried a Mulliner badge on the front wing. Its transformed cabin exhibited opulence and technical sophistication to its core. This luxury sedan also featured a 13.1 inch screen for entertainment of the passengers. Moreover, an advanced audio system was present to create lively atmosphere within the car.
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Bentley Arnage T
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Bentley Arnage T was the last variant in the Arnage family of cars. This was a luxury sedan that had been graciously designed for rendering utmost comfort. Uncompromising on-road performance and 6.75 L twin turbocharged petrol engine were two of its main characteristics. Furthermore, buyers have the option of choosing between single tone and double tone colours.
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Bentley Arnage Pricing
Arnage was targeted at the elite segment of society, which craved for luxurious cars. Therefore, Bentley Arnage price ranged between Rs. 2.25 crores and Rs. 2.5 crores in India.
Bentley Arnage Review
Bentley Arnage was a four-door premium sedan that was available in the three variants. Arnage R and RL delivered power-packed performance due to a V8 6.75 L turbo engine that ensured excellent on-road performance. Arnage RL was the extended version of Arnage R, with altered length and changes in interiors finishes. On the other hand, Arnage T was the sporty premium sedan with considerably less chrome accents and polished seat upholstery being its highlights.
Arnage RL boasted of a 9.8 inch extended wheelbase and distinct rear compartment with a small back window for a concave sitting arrangement. Among the notable interior fittings of this car, the luxury sedan sported two 12 inch wide DVD screens. The sporty variant, Arnage T, had a darker finish, unlike the chrome finish provided by the manufacturer in other variants.
Bentley sedans resemble Rolls Royce Silver Seraph in terms of design. However, Arnage had several features that distinguished it from other cars, such as dual-tone blended colour theme, sporty features and technical capabilities.
Bentley Arnage Used Car Market
Bentley Motors Limited competed in the niche segment of premier cars. Bentley Arnage, which is acknowledged for its aesthetic design and plush interiors, is one of the most luxurious sedans produced by this British car marker. Bentley Arnage cars have strong brand value, owing to which these are fairly priced in the used car market.
Bentley Arnage Specifications
Bentley Arnage R and RL were powered by 6.75 L V8 engines that churned out power of 450 bhp at 4100 rpm and had peak torque of 875 Nm at 1800 rpm. On the other hand, Bentley Arnage T was loaded with 6.75 L V8 engine that generated 500 bhp of power at 4200 rpm and had peak torque of 1001 Nm at 3,200 rpm. Furthermore, all these cars had rack and pinion, power-assisted steering wheel.
All the Bentley Arnage variants ran on petrol and had twin-turbocharged engines that enabled excellent on-road performance. Moreover, the drive mechanism had excellent suspension, featuring an independent double wishbone with coil springs and gas-charged shock absorbers at the front as well as at rear. Their suspension system was supported by ventilated discs at the front as well as rear ends.
Bentley Arnage Exterior
Bentley Arnage Exterior Appearance
One of the most appealing cars of its generation, Bentley Arnage boasted of graciously designed and hand-carved exteriors. The sleek, rounded body, flowing lines with powerfully sculpted sports bumpers and integral airdam still grab the attention of onlookers. Painted radiator shell mounts the Bentley badge, while its dark tinted stainless steel Bentley matrix grille and rear quarter panel marque badges reflect the smooth design of the exterior.
The black exterior marque badging, all-steel monocoque bodyshell of high torsional rigidity, double-sided zinc coated skin panels and ten-stage metal treatment prior to cathodic electro-priming define the sophistication of Arnage. Lift-assisted rear-hinged bonnet / hood along with 19 inch 5-spoke, 2-piece sports 'star' Aluminium alloy wheel covers further beautify the premium Bentley. Bumpers, along with integral front fog lights, render sporty character to the Arnage.
Bentley Arnage Exterior Measurements
Exterior measurements of Bentley Arnage are tabulated below:
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Parameters
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Measurement
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Length
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5390 mm (R), 5640 mm (RL)
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Width
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1900 mm
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Height
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1515 mm
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Wheelbase
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3366 mm
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Kerb weight
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2585 kg
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Bentley Arnage Interior
Bentley Arnage Interior Appearance
Bentley Arnage boasted of exquisitely designed interiors with refined features. The detailing of interiors was done by optimally blending classic and modern approaches. Its luxurious interiors were laced with high quality fabric and finished by hand. The traditional cabin of Arnage was loaded with modern arrangements / systems, like sat-nav screen, climate control and audio console.
Bentley Arnage buyers could select exterior themes, which included colour, leather colour, wood finish, stitching, carpeting, door panels and wheel options. Elegant wood veneers, chrome accents, leather upholstery and plush wool carpeting were the prominent interior highlights. RL variant had additions like rear centre armrest, Bluetooth phone interface and rear camera. Arnage T variant had considerably less chrome plating in comparison to other two variants, although it sported upholstery in diamond pattern.
Elegant analogue instruments, adjustable tilt steering wheel with cruise control switches, information panel with trip computer and self-dimming interior rear-view mirror were some of the other distinguishable interior features of Arnage.
Bentley Arnage Interior Comfort
Bentley Arnage car provides comfortable seating space for four occupants. All the arrangements are precisely designed for utmost comfort and convenience of passengers. Shouldered seats, vertical fluting and ergonomic layout for driving comfort are some of the notable comfort arrangements of this vehicle.
Bentley Arnage Interior Measurements
Interior measurements of Bentley Arnage are tabulated below:
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Parameter
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Measurement
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Front Leg Room
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963 mm
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Rear Leg Room
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1049 mm
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Front Headroom
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965 mm
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Rear Headroom
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1021 mm
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Bentley Arnage Mileage, Average and Fuel Economy
Loaded with sophisticated technical capabilities, Bentley Arnage delivered excellent on-road performance. As all the Bentley's models were luxury-oriented, the manufacturer emphasised on comfort and convenience instead of fuel efficiency. Bentley Arnage car delivers decent mileage of 2.5 kmpl in the city while fuel economy doubles to 5 kmpl on the highways.
Bentley Arnage On-road Drive
The power-packed Bentley Arnage is still one of the most desired luxury sedans due to its streamlined on-road drive mechanism. The splendid four-door luxury sports sedan provides comfortable space for accommodating four passengers. This model from the stables of Bentley is quite fast and powerful as it had been designed for rendering an aggressive driving experience.
The excellent suspension and steering columns complement the advanced engine of the Arnage. Memory steering columns and rack & pinion steering add to the performance of the car by ensuring more stability. Advanced capabilities like RSB, auto load levelling, wishbone suspension with coil springs and shock absorbers (gas charged) facilitate smooth drive on bumpy road conditions.
Double-wishbone suspension system provided stability to the Bentley Arnage R and RL models. On the other hand, Bentley Arnage T was equipped with a firmer suspension system.
Bentley Arnage Power
Arnage R and RL variants were assimilated with power-packed 6.75 L V8 engines that delivered phenomenal performance. The engine used in the car had power output of 455 bhp at 4100 rpm and peak torque of 875 Nm at 1800 rpm.
On the other hand, Bentley Arnage T was equipped with 6.75 L V8 engine that churned out 505 bhp at 4200 rpm and had peak torque of 1001 Nm at 3,200 rpm. All these petrol-powered models were integrated with twin-turbocharged technology for delivering significant power output and maximising torque.
Bentley Arnage Acceleration and Pick Up
Bentley Arnage cars, loaded with high-revving 6.75 L V8 engine with automatic transmission, still boasts of excellent acceleration. The luxury sedan races from 0 to 100 kmph mark in 6.2 seconds and has top speed of 240 kmph. The advanced mechanism used in the vehicle automatically adjusts it according to the inputs of the driver and road conditions for optimal ride, streamlined handling and dynamic balance.
Bentley Arnage Safety and Security
Bentley Arnage car has several safety and security arrangements for ensuring the safety of occupants. Traction control, Electronic Braking assist System (EBS), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and Vehicle Stability Control System (VSCS) are some of the safety features used in the car. Apart from these, Emergency Brake Assistance (EBA), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated disc brakes, RBF distribution and limited slip differential also enhance safety of the vehicle. Other advanced active safety features include door beams, anti-trap device, airbag cut-off sensor and front pre-tensioners.
Besides active safety features, this full-size luxury sedan is also equipped with safety airbags, child safety locks, glass break sensor, inclination sensor, two limited access (valet parking) keys and adjustable seatbelts. Bentley Arnage was also loaded with an advance boost braking system that was complemented by automatic stability control (ASC) and micro-alloy ventilated discs.
Bentley Arnage Comfort and Convenience
In terms of comfort and convenience, all Arnage cars outclassed their competition. The four-seater Bentley had comfortable space for conveniently seating four passengers. Air conditioning system with climate control, power windows, remote boot, remote fuel filler, rear armrest with cup holder and steering adjustment (rake / reach) were some of the notable convenience arrangements.
Bentley Arnage Wheels
Bentley Arnage was fitted with high-performing wheels of 255 / 50 R18 size. Wheels of the luxury sedan combine with its ventilated disc brake mechanism at the front as well as to the rear to ensure total control of the vehicle. Wheels of the Bentley Arnage cars were supported by an excellent suspension mechanism, loaded with independent double wishbone with coil springs and gas-charged shock absorbers at the front as well as at the rear.
Bentley Arnage Stereo and Accessories
Several entertainment arrangements and accessories were present in the cars for ensuring the convenience of occupants. The spacious cabin has a split level (face / feet) and side-to-side heating / air conditioning system, with individual controls at front and rear ends. Dehumidifier plus pollen and dust micro-filters and residual heating system helped in maintaining airy atmosphere within the car. Moreover, Bentley Arnage had modern audio visual console with 6-disc autochanger and SD card reader. Moreover, the advanced console had Bluetooth rSAP and telephone interface.
Bentley Arnage Dealers
Bentley Motors Limited has a widespread network of flagship dealers around the globe. Bentley Arnage cars can be availed from Exclusive Motors Private Limited, the company owned dealership, in New Delhi. On the other hand, luxury sedan is also available at Exclusive Motors Private Limited in Mumbai.
Bentley Arnage Competitor Analysis
Rolls-Royce Phantom is one of the foremost competitors of Bentley Arnage. The saloon automotive, full-size luxury sedan is made in England by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, a subsidiary of Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW). Launched in the year 2003, Rolls-Royce Phantom joined the league of premium cars with a long list of comfort and convenience features.
Maybach 57 and Maybach 62, the revived models from the stables of Maybach, are other luxury vehicles in the league of Arnage. Manufactured by Daimler Chrysler AG, the premium car was based on the Mercedes-Benz Maybach concept car showcased at the international automotive event, 1997 Tokyo Motor Show.
Lotus Elise, although a two-capacity automotive, was among the contenders of the title of best premium luxury car. The roadster was launched in the year 1996 by the English manufacturer Lotus Cars and soon became one of the elite cars plying on the roads. Acknowledged for performance, design features and sporty character, Lotus Elise gave Bentley Arnage cars close competition.
Positioned in the top segment luxury, Bentley Arnage maintained competitive edge over its rivals. The high performing luxury sedan from Bentley had three different variants, thus offering excellent variants of the same model to Indian customers. Muscular design of the elite car was complemented by its luxurious interiors and advanced technical capabilities. Loaded with twin-turbocharged engine, Arnage was characterised by powerful on-road performance.
Bentley Arnage LPG/CNG version
There are no LPG/CNG versions of Bentley Arnage cars.
Bentley Arnage Pros
Bentley Arnage was considered the pinnacle of engineering and the embodiment of structure and features that all auto enthusiasts desired. Buyers could choose from three variants – the classic model Arnage R, performance-oriented Arnage T and custom designed RL limousine. Integration of advanced features like GPS, telephone interface and multimedia capabilities made it one-of-a-kind at the time of its launch.
Arnage’s luxurious drive was powered by an advanced 6.75 L twin-turbocharged, all-aluminium V8 engine that not only delivered top-notch performance, but was also reckoned for streamlined suspension and handling. Bentley Arnage 2005 had several revisions, offering audience opportunity for personalisation of its luxury-oriented interiors. The full-size sedan became the dream car of potential buyers due to its perfect blend of a power-loaded engine, comprehensive finish and best-in-class comfort features.
Bentley Arnage Cons
Along with several positives, the iconic Bentley Arnage cars had some limitations. High-revving engine used to become quirky after elapsing some thousand miles, causing discomfort to occupants. Among other notable aspects, where Bentley Arnage cars lacked were folding rear seats, sun roof, convenience controls mounted on steering wheel and Xenon headlamps.
Bentley Arnage Conclusion
A combination of exclusiveness, powerful on-road presence and exceptionally luxury loaded interiors, Bentley Arnage was the most prized possession of its owners. A symbol of ambition, full-size luxury sedan had three variants that catered to variegated segments of the elite class. The classic Bentley R, personalised luxury saloon RL variant and sporty Arnage T rendered streamlined performance due to their 6.75 L V8 engines.
Decorated with chrome accents, Arnage R presented a design that was reminiscent of classic models. On the other hand, Arnage RL limousine had a 9.8 inches extended wheelbase for enhanced space inside the cabin. Arnage T, designed to cater to sport enthusiasts, had technical capabilities of sports car and comfort of luxury cars.