In 1919, company founder W.O. Bentley (MBE), engineer, innovator and leader, had a clear vision for his company. His philosophy encompassed simply; “Make a fast car, a good car, the best in its class.” An unblemished endeavor that continues to this day.

In March 1995 at the Geneva Motor Show, Rolls-Royce Motors unveiled its convertible version of the Continental R, the Bentley Azure drophead coupe. The much-acclaimed Continental R design lines were superbly adapted. It was Bentley’s first entirely new convertible since 1967. Now considered a modern classic, the Pininfarina-designed Azure is acknowledged by Rolls-Royce and Bentley enthusiasts to be one of the most desirable cars ever built.

The two-door open tourer seats four adults in extravagant luxury, thanks in part to its brilliant computer-controlled automatic ride control. Whether enjoying a leisurely top-down Sunday drive or covering great distances at speed and experiencing the thrill of putting the car through its paces, the well-mannered Azure is the definitive driver’s car.

From 1999 through the end of production, the Azure was also available in "Mulliner" trim, which added special bespoke trim and additional equipment and allowed the buyer the option for further factory customization during the build-process; pricing varied by car, as equipment could be significantly different from one to the next depending on customer requests.

The Bentley Azure is quite uncommon in that according to Pininfarina production records, only 1,403 Azure dropheads were produced during its production run from 1994 to 2002, with only 189 of those built in 2000. Additional sources indicate that this is one of only 25 Mulliner “Wide Body” cars produced in 2000.

Elegantly finished in blue with crème colored leather interior; the Bentley Azure runs with a big 6.75-liter V-8 engine boosted by a Garrett turbocharger to deliver 400 brake horsepower and 590-lb/ft of torque. Lavishly appointed, the handbuilt Azure features an automatic transmission, full wood veneers, an attractive gauge cluster (including tachometer), bucket seats in front with full power, center console, air conditioning, clock, tilt steering, cruise control, lush carpets; power top, windows, door locks, steering and four-wheel disc brakes.

The limited production Azure convertible was as dominant on the road as its luxury and exclusivity dominated the boulevards of resorts and spas. Priced in excess of $300,000 when new, it is an automobile you will be delighted to own and drive.