LOT 122
2003 Bentley Azure Mulliner 'Final Series Performance' VIN. SCBZK25E13CX01198
Sold for US$53,760 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 122
From the Ernie Boch Jr. Collection
One of only 47 left drive examples from 62 built
2003 Bentley Azure Mulliner 'Final Series Performance'
One of only 47 left drive examples from 62 built
2003 Bentley Azure Mulliner 'Final Series Performance'
The Audrain Concours Auction|4 October 2024, 17:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame
2003 Bentley Azure Mulliner 'Final Series Performance'
VIN. SCBZK25E13CX01198
VIN. SCBZK25E13CX01198
6,750cc OHV Turbocharged V8 Engine
Zytec EMS3 Engine Management
420bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Hydra-Matic Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension, Electronic Ride Control
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*Striking black over two-tone tan leather cabin
*Exceedingly rare, as one of just 62 Final Series produced
*Powered by the mighty 420bhp 6.75-liter V8 engine
*Highly optioned with Mulliner exclusive touches
*Superb condition, with just 26,121 miles from new
*In the current collection since 2018
THE BENTLEY AZURE
When Bentley introduced the Continental R in 1991, it marked the first time since 1965 that Bentley had a model that did not share a body with Rolls-Royce. The achingly beautiful four-seat coupe, based on the proven 'SZ' platform, was a success for Bentley, despite being one of the most expensive new cars offered at the time. A natural follow up to the coupe was a four-seat convertible, which arrived in time for the 1995 Geneva Auto Show. Based on the potent Bentley Continental R, the drop head Azure version was developed in partnership with the famed Italian styling house Pininfarina. The results were nothing short of spectacular, with the Continental R making a graceful and natural transition into an open convertible, looking equally elegant with the top up or down.
Body shells were assembled in Italy by Pininfarina, fitted with the automatic soft-top, painted and shipped to the UK for final finishing at the Bentley factory at Crewe. Of course, the option sheet was only as long as the client's imagination. None of this came cheap, of course, with a price of nearly $350,000 in 1995!
Hailed by its maker as 'the world's best convertible', the Azure lived up to that grand title, proving an immense success, especially in the USA where its combination of unmatched luxury, effortless performance and elegant style was particularly appealing. When production ceased in 2003 a total of only 1,321 Azures of all types had been built. While a comparatively small number by modern production standards, it was nonetheless a success for Bentley.
THE CAR OFFERED
Bentley has made something of a tradition out of offering "Final Series" editions to commemorate the end of a model line. Not only do they drum up interest in an outgoing model, but they also often later emerge as the most collectible of the range. In 2003, Bentley offered a fitting sendoff for the Azure Convertible produced in exceedingly limited numbers by their bespoke Mulliner Coachwork department. The Azure Mulliner Final Series Performance combined the best bits from the widebody Continental R Mulliner and high-performance Continental T in the open Azure body. The mighty 6.75-liter turbocharged V8 is in 'T' specifications, belting out 420bhp and a massive 650lb-ft of torque. The beautiful lines of the Azure are enhanced with the flared arches, fender vents, red brake calipers, and special bright-finish wheels among myriad other detail and trim differences.
The black car offered here is one of 62 produced, of which it is reported that 47 were left-hand drive. Showing just 26,121 miles at the time of cataloguing, this car has undeniable presence, particularly with its chrome wheels and polished radiator shell. The cabin is trimmed in two-tone tan leather, with dark diamond-stitched inserts on the seats and door cards to match the dark-colored Wilton carpets. Of course it is all beautifully finished to a high standard, and with this car's low miles, presented in excellent condition.
The accompanying CARFAX report documents shows ownership in California and Nevada, eventually coming into the care of its current custodian in 2016. It is noted that at 14,000 miles, this car was reacquired by the dealer as a Lemon Law Buyback. It was subsequently sold, and in the current owner's care, has been well maintained as part of a significant collection of SZ-platform Bentleys.
Beautifully presented and exceptionally well-maintained, this marvelous Azure Final Series is a fitting send-off for the iconic Bentely convertible.
Additional information
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