Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Bentley Blends Past And Present With Stunning Displays At Monterey Car Week 2024
Bentley’s annual showcase at Monterey Car Week featured several notable firsts, highlighting the brand's automotive diversity. The fourth-generation Continental GT Speed made its US debut, with a bespoke example from Mulliner leading over 30 pre-production models. Journalists and customers had the opportunity to experience the new GT Speed on the road for the first time globally.
The Continental GT Speed was not the only Bentley making waves at Monterey Car Week. Bentley’s own 1961 S2 Drophead Coupe, meticulously restored over two years, became the first Bentley entered into the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance by the marque itself. This rare vehicle is one of only 15 examples created by Mulliner in the 1960s.
Bentley’s presence at Monterey Car Week was extensive, with nearly 90 Bentleys showcased and over 3,000 customers and friends hosted across various events. The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering marked the formal arrival of the new Continental GT Speed in the USA. Additionally, a new Bentayga S Black Edition was displayed in satin silver with orange accents.
The latest project from Mulliner’s Classic division, the Speed Six Continuation Series, also made its on-road debut. The Speed Six ‘Car Zero’ is a newly-built example crafted to original specifications using traditional techniques. It has been driven for thousands of miles during development before its trip to Monterey.
Meanwhile, Bentley announced a new environmental initiative during their iconic Beach Dinner at Seal Rock. The Bentley Environmental Foundation will fund a US kelp forest project with partner SeaTrees to restore CO2-absorbing kelp forests along key coastal sites.
Restoration of S2 Drophead Coupe
The S2 Drophead Coupe underwent an extensive restoration process after being acquired from a French owner in 2022. The car was in poor condition and required two years of work with Bentley Heritage partners P&A Wood to bring it back to Concours condition. Originally delivered in 1961, it was finished in Regal Red with a tan interior and gold fine line.
During restoration, previous poor-quality repairs were corrected, and mechanical systems were rebuilt. The wiring was redone using original drawings and identically-coloured wires as per original specifications. The wood set was restored by specialists, while Connolly Vaumol leather matched the original light tan interior shade called Fawn.
Bentley’s Comprehensive Presence
Several hundred VIPs attended Bentley’s Signature Party on Saturday night. On Sunday, Bentley welcomed guests at The Bench for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance where executives served as Honorary Judges. The 1961 S2 Drophead was showcased alongside a new Continental GTC Speed on the Concept Lawn.
Bentley continues to be one of the most comprehensive brands present at Monterey Car Week. A pair of Mulliner designers hosted specification sessions with clients across events, imagining scores of new Bentleys.
The decision was made to keep UFF366 blue but repaint it in an original 1960s Bentley colour – Ming Blue – with hand-applied gold fine lines and blue and gold trims on hub caps.
Bentley's showcase at Monterey Car Week exemplifies their commitment to heritage and innovation. From classic restorations to modern debuts, they continue to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
Continue with Google