1997 Bentley Azure
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Highlights
- Highly impressive Bentley Azure in Black Garnet Metallic
- Only 3 owners from new
- Only 44,850 miles
- Enormous service history and paperwork file
The Appeal
Introduced in 1995, based on the celebrated Continental, the Bentley Azure was a Grand Tourer which set a milestone in the company’s history. Only 1,403 MK1s were produced, but each was like a work of automotive art. The essential characteristic grille, the luxurious cabin and the sheer size of these impressive machines made them a star of the product range.
This example, with a super low mileage, only two owners from new, and a massive stack of paperwork, is a perfect opportunity for even the most seasoned enthusiast.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered in July 1997
- First owner change in 2006
- Second owner change in 2009
- Originally registered as red
- Car indicates only 44,850 miles
- MOT expired in January 2023
- Regularly serviced by specialists, with multiple thousands of pounds spent
- The sale includes:
- An enormous stack of invoices
- All original sales paperwork in their original folder
- Paperwork for the theft tracker
- Vast selection of MOT certificates
- Stamped service record
- Packaging for the aftermarket IVA-D511R media station
- V5 document
The Interior
- Beautifully kept ivory and walnut interior
- Aftermarket media station has been installed
- Luxurious period options in good working order
Beautifully appointed, and almost conjuring the idea of a luxury hotel room on wheels, the Bentley Azure is a beautifully appointed car that reflects perfectly its exclusivity.
From the flowing ivory leather upholstery – free of rips and tears – to the beautifully set walnut panels, the car is a resplendent example, in line with its low mileage. We’re having trouble locating any faults to speak of.
The wood panelling is in good order, with only light signs of wear that do nothing to detract from the rich, deep finish. The instruments, wrapped in chrome, are all easy to read and don’t appear to have any faults we can highlight.
The chromework carries a slight patina, commensurate with age, but still contrasts and reflects nicely with no peel or losses we can highlight.
The modern media station has been nicely set into the radio slot, ensuring no damage to the dashboard or centre console, and the carpets look superb - protected by a full set of Bentley branded mats.
The impressive boot is clean and well-kept, with no rips or tears to the piped lining.
The Exterior
- Attractive black paintwork in good condition with only minor signs of wear
- Iconic grille, clustered lights and lashings of Bentley branding set a luxurious feel
With its beautifully presented paintwork, subtle, sweeping lines, and large proportions this Bentley is an attractive motorcar. The iconic grille and ‘Flying B’ emblem lead the car with an impressive stature, and really set the profile for this grand tourer.
The bodywork appears to be in good, solid order, with no dents or dings we can highlight in the metalwork, and the paint is nice and well-kept - though is showing the odd mark or chip behind the arches. We can’t spot any blistering or any other blemishing on the main bodywork, but the sills do have some signs of corrosion and paint loss.
The chromework and trims show the very slightest touch of patina, but are all present and correct with no peels or losses. The car is sitting on its proudly branded Bentley wheels, which have been nicely kept. They’re wrapped in a set of Avon tyres, which have plenty of tread.
We understand that the car’s underside is in good order, in line with its low mileage.
The Mechanics
- Powered by a 6.75L Turbocharged Bentley L410 MT 1T V8 powerplant
- 4-speed GM 4L80-E automatic transmission
- Top speed of 150mph and 385hp at the driver’s disposal
As you’d expect from a Bentley, this machine has seriously impressive specs, with an enormous V8 packed under the bonnet. It’s a powerful, burbling monster hidden under a veneer of fanciful, British elegance. What more could you ask for?
Recently serviced, and beautifully kept, we can’t spot any faults with the car’s engine bay, and it looks to be a great overall example. The vendor reports no faults with the car’s operation, and judging from its low mileage, service history and stack of invoices, it’s clearly been cossetted.
Summary
An ultra-elegant, super-luxurious and supersized car, this ‘97 Azure will be a highly impressive addition to any collector’s garage.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
The Gallery
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