New Bentley Is Quick and Costly

09/26/96

The Associated Press reported that Rolls-Royce has introduced a faster and more costly version of its Bentley automobile in North America. The new Continental T goes from zero to 60 mph in less than six seconds, tops out at 155 mph, and runs $324,500. The added zip of the new Rolls will cost speed-hungry rich kids $17,400 more than comparable but slower models.

Robert Wharen, head of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Inc.'s U.S. operations, said "Drivers of this car are interested in more aggressive performance. A Bentley customer may describe it as daring."

The US market will only see 15 of the cars for the 1997 model year, followed by about 30 in 1998. After 1998, production will be based on demand.

The new car is three inches shorter than any other Bentley, but not as small as a typical sports car. The interior evokes Bentley's racing heyday in the 1920s and 30s. The dashboard panel is made of brushed aluminum, and there's even a push button starter.

Rolls-Royce also announced that its sales continue to rise. Between January and June 1996, the company sold 912 Rolls-Royces and Bentleys, up 32 percent, year-on-year. Rolls-Royce's convertible, the Bentley Axure, remains the company's most expensive model at about $330,000. Rolls introduced the Azure last year.

Wharen said, "our approach to Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars is now guided much more by the different attributes of the two marques." He explained that the typical Bentley owner drives much more often and doesn't like to be chauffeured around.

During the last recession, annual Rolls sales dropped from 3,324 in 1990 to 1,375 in 1992. Sales have been steadily recovering ever since. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is owned by London-based Vickers PLC.

Paul Dever -- The Auto Channel