2001 BENTLEY ARNAGE RED LABEL

This 2001 Bentley Arnage Red Label is a high-performance luxury car presented in excellent condition and with a superb factory specification. Its 6.75-litre turbocharged V8 produces 400bhp and an astonishing 875Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels via a four-speed GM automatic transmission. The odometer shows 73,430 miles from new, which is fully supported by the service and MOT history.

As a 2001 model, this Arnage benefits from the stiffer body shell compared to the earliest examples, as well as larger brakes, an increase in rear seat leg room, and an upgraded steering rack for easier low-speed manoeuvres.

Understood to have been completed at the Crewe factory in August 2001, it was first registered the following month. There are four previous registered keepers on the V5C log book, and it has been owned by the seller for the last four years. He has enjoyed around 13,500 miles behind the wheel, and has kept the car in superb mechanical and cosmetic order.

Its bodywork remains in excellent condition, with no dents or corrosion present on any of the panels. The Black Sapphire paint is an elegant deep blue colour, which is a great choice on such a stately motor car. There is a very minor scuff mark on the offside front bumper, and one or two small stone chips to the bonnet and front shroud, but otherwise it presents superbly, with original factory paint throughout.

A ‘Flying B’ Bentley mascot that was sourced directly from the factory has been installed on top of the radiator cowl. The car sits on the original and correct set of six-spoke 18-inch Red Label alloy wheels with red monogram centre caps. There are a few small grazes on the nearside front wheel, and chips on the rim of the offside rear alloy, but they are in generally very good condition.

Inside, this Arnage Red Label is upholstered in full Cotswold beige leather, with French Navy piping around the seat centre panels. The leather-trimmed dashboard top, steering wheel and deep wool carpets are also finished in contrasting dark blue. There are ‘winged-B’ logos stitched into each of the headrests, and the headlining remains in superb order.

The leather upholstery is in great shape for the age and mileage, and would benefit from continued conditioning to keep it that way. A small patch of wear and discolouration is present on the steering wheel rim, and the cross-stitch thread has become loose around the gear lever trim. Otherwise, it is very hard to find imperfections in the cabin. Burr walnut veneers extend across the dashboard and centre console, and along the door caps, and they are all in excellent condition.

Passengers benefit from an array of creature comforts or convenience features in the Arnage. The front seats are electrically adjustable and heated, and the cabin also includes dual-zone climate control, an Alpine stereo head unit with Bluetooth and a six-disc CD changer, a pop-up satellite navigation screen, cruise control, and front and rear parking sensors.

The veneered picnic tables, vanity mirrors, electric reclining rear seats, and lambswool rugs are all desirable factory-fitted options specified at additional cost when the car was ordered new. All of the switchgear works perfectly, and there are no electrical gremlins.

Even luggage travels in luxury in the Arnage, with the thick-carpeted boot lining still in superb condition. Under the floor is a full-size spare wheel and tyre, along with the jack, spare bulbs, chocks and tools.

This is evidently a cherished car, which has been meticulously maintained and has comprehensive service history from new. It starts, runs, and drives smoothly, riding a huge wave of torque to make effortless progress at almost any speed. The last scheduled maintenance was carried out in June 2019 at Anchor Service in Padworth, Berkshire, which comprised of an engine oil replacement, fresh filters, a lubrication service, and a new battery.

Prior to this, it was also seen and serviced in May 2018, with oil and filter renewals, along with new power steering oil cooler and pipes, and replacement coolant level and temperature sensors. In January 2018, the brake pad sensors were renewed, along with a nearside lower ball joint.

During the seller’s ownership, this Arnage has also been treated to a new intercooler and moulding, a replacement viscous fan coupling, and a full set of new drive belts. The latter were installed in February 2016 at approximately 63,000 miles.

Its most recent MOT test was on 25 June 2019 at 72,759 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass, with no advisories about any wear, faults or items of concern. While it is not due for another test until the summer, the seller will provide a brand-new 12-month MOT certificate on handover to the next owner. The alloy wheels are fitted with a set of Pirelli P Zero Rosso tyres in size 255/50 ZR18 all round, which are in nearly-new condition with 6-7mm of tread.

Accompanying the car is a complete and original set of books, including the owner’s manual and the stamped maintenance record, along with the leather wallet to store them in. A factory build specification sheet is also included, as well as numerous old MOT certificates.

This Bentley Arnage Red Label is a superb example of the breed, which boasts a wonderful specification and which has been meticulously maintained. A compelling blend of luxury and performance, which is now undoubtedly a collectable modern classic. This is a great opportunity to acquire a cherished car that wants for nothing.