Bentley Sales Up 28% in 2000

    DETROIT, Jan. 9 North American sales of Bentley motors in
2000 rose by 28% when compared with 1999.
    The President of Rolls-Royce & Bentley Motor Cars, Inc. Alasdair Stewart
said: "We are delighted with the increase, however we are not surprised by the
growing interest in, and popularity of our latest models.  The Bentley Arnage
benefited from significant enhancements for this model year -- including
greater interior space; remote parking sensors and satellite navigation.  In
addition the fitting of Bentley's famous 6.75 liter turbocharged V8 engine to
the Arnage Red Label sedan has been very warmly welcomed by Bentley
enthusiasts."
    Sales of Bentley two-door models in 2000 were 111, including 85 Azure
convertibles and 26 Continental coupes. Bentley Arnage saloons accounted for
447 sales, bringing total Bentley sales for 2000 to 558 cars compared with
437 in 1999.
    Stewart added: "I believe we have barely scratched the surface, especially
with the Bentley Arnage Red Label.  It is an outstanding vehicle, which
embodies all of the great Bentley traditions of power, performance and
presence. Current indications show that the strong demand for the Red Label
will continue."
    "The year 2000 saw significant and exciting announcements for Bentley
Motors.  Both the interior and exterior designs for the Mid Sized Bentley
(MSB) were signed off.  To support production at Crewe of this all-new
Bentley, 400 new employees were taken on and an additional investment of
US $105 million in plant and equipment confirmed.  In August we announced the
Bentley State Limousine for H.M. Queen Elizabeth, and in November we confirmed
that we would be returning to motor sport and the famous Circuit International
du Mans after 71 years to contest the Le Mans 24 Hour race."
    This is an exciting time for Bentley; more and more enthusiasts are
discovering what Bentley has to offer, and there is no reason why our market
share cannot grow."