High Performance Motoring Opulence with Seating for Four. No-Expense-Spared Service, Exceedingly Rare.
2001 Bentley Continental R 420
VIN SCBZB25E21CX63528
Silver Pearl with Stratos and Slate Grey Leather Interior
After decades producing warmed over Rolls-Royces, Bentley’s Continental R was the first unique to Bentley model in a long time. The car was in many ways the ultimate embodiment of Bentley's renaissance. It was both an elegant and outrageous car that truly differentiated Bentley from the Rolls-Royce offerings that Bentley had so closely mimicked during previous decades, while also showcasing the remarkable technology and engineering of which Bentley Motors was capable. Above and beyond the standard Continental R were the high performance limited editions, including this 420 model. The specification includes considerably flared wheel arches to accommodate 18-inch alloys and revised suspension settings, as well as massaged engine to provide no less than 420hp and 590 foot-pounds of torque. On later cars, such as this one, this was further increased to a staggering 650 foot-pounds at just 2200rpm, and massive disc brakes (with dual calipers in the front) were also fitted. Despite the immense weight of the car, it was reported to be good for a 170mph top speed.
When they were new, these cars were massively expensive (in the region of $350,000). This car was sold new in California, and was ordered in Silver Pearl with Stratos interior and grey piping. It is a 420 Edition, which includes fender vents and 420 badges, 420 kick plates, alloy shift knob with 420 engraved in it, dual exhaust, red brake calipers, alloy pedals, and the aforementioned suspension and engine upgrades. This car has covered just over 44,000 miles from new and is in very good condition. The paintwork is to the standard required of a car of this caliber, although there are a few chips and light scratches about the body associated with 44,000 miles of road use. The trim and wheels are spotless, with no curb rash of significance. The glass and lamps are excellent as well.
The interiors of these cars are nothing short of spectacular. One does not realize how much plastic the average modern car interior (even in a relatively nice luxury car) has until experiencing this car. With the exception of some of the switchgear, almost everything inside of this car is made of natural materials. Wood, leather, metal, and wool are the rules. The headliner and visors are covered with leather, as are the dashboard, center console, and even the rear shelf and seat frame trim. The doors shut with such tremendous authority and solidity as to be awesome, while the overall experience is incredibly special and incredibly hedonistic. The engine is actuated with a large red starter button as a nod to Bentley’s motorsport past, which also adds even more to the sense of occasion associated with driving this car. As a 2001 model, this car features the reposition starter button (from the console to dashboard) and redesigned seat upholstery pattern, in addition to the monopost headrests and waterfall chrome shifter surround. Naturally, there are very few signs of wear at all with just a few scuffs in places and light wear to the leather on the driver’s seat bolster, and some hairline cracks in the wood veneer. This car also has perforated leather seat and door inserts. This interior of this car is in an atypical but sophisticated color combination of grey with light maple wood that is very striking, and which compliments the exterior very nicely.
The engine compartment and trunk are both like new, with no appreciable signs of wear or damage. The trunk is upholstered with nicer carpet than most cars use in the interior, and the full sized spare tire and alloy wheel are present as well.
The performance of this car is quite remarkable and perhaps even slightly laughable. A car this size that goes, stops, and turns as well as this is especially incongruous, but the performance is legitimately impressive for a car of any size. The tremendous torque moves the car with great authority and a wonderful sound, and the car is extraordinarily composed when cornering. The brakes are very capable and the car tremendously smooth and quiet while underway.
Fantasy Junction had the opportunity to sell this wonderful motor car to the present owner in 2010 and since that time it has been maintained at Rolls Royce and Bentley authorities Acme Car Service, and San Francisco British Motor Cars without regards to expense. This work include servicing the A/C, rebuilding the front power seat mechanisms, installing a new power steering rack, servicing the braking system including new pads, as well as the fuel system including the injectors. Select cooling system works were performed, which included replacing the thermostat. The most recent service visit to San Francisco’s British Motor Car was at 44,415 miles which included a multi-point inspection showing no issues.
This car is an engaging mixture of performance, handing, presence, and luxury, all wrapped in an elegant but also athletic package. In short: high performance motoring opulence for four! This is a very rare opportunity to acquire an even more special Bentley than the ‘standard’ examples, in a wonderful color combination and at a fraction of its cost when new. These cars are quite desirable and command a premium, even at this young age, more than suggesting the potential for future collectability.
Offers encouraged.
The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.
Fantasy Junction • 510-653-7555 • 1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608