Bentley Arnage RENTAL

In September 2008, it was announced that Arnage production would cease in 2009, once a final run of 150 “Final Series” models has been completed.

The Arnage Final Series includes the Arnage T powertrain, including the aforementioned twin-turbo 6.75-litre V8 engine[16] that produces 500 metric horsepower (368 kW; 493 bhp) and approximately 1,000 newton metres (738 lb·ft) of torque. The powertrain delivers torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Outside, the Final Series features unique 20 inch alloy wheels, a retractable ‘Flying B’ mascot, body-coloured headlamp bezels, dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles, lower front wing vents, a ‘Jewel-style’ fuel filler cap and special badging.

The interior, designed by Mulliner, features Final Series kick plates, drilled alloy pedals, unique chrome trim, a rear cocktail cabinet and two picnic tables. The model also comes with four special umbrellas and a premium 1,000 watt audio system by Naim Audio.

The model is offered with 42 exterior colour schemes, 25 interior hides and three wood veneers. It can also be specified with the bespoke color-matching offered by Bentley.

The Final Series also marks the 50th anniversary of Bentley’s V8 engine. The 2009 variant of the engine is still loosely based on the same design that was introduced in the 1959 Bentley S2. However, the 2008 engine shares no interchangeable parts with the 1950 model, the last common item having been replaced in 2005. When the engine was first unveiled promotional literature described power and torque as ‘adequate’. Now twin-turbocharged, the all-aluminium alloy engine delivers 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds in a car weighing 2.5 tonnes. Fuel consumption is heavy, with Bentley stating that the model averages less than 10 mpg in the city and just over 20 on the highway in European testing.

A replacement model, which is called the Bentley Mulsanne was launched in August 2009, at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, in Monterey, California.

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