2002 Bentley Azure Le Mans Series
In 2002 Bentley offered a new special edition called the Le Mans Series in anticipation for their run up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. These cars were very highly appointed and built upon the already fantastic list of options on the standard Azure. Offered initially has a package on the Continental R, only four Azures were sold with the Le Mans package.
At their 2010 Sporting Classics of Monaco sale, RM Auctions sold one of the four Azures Le Mans Series. Chassis SCBZK25E91CX62666 sold for €140,000. It was described as:
In 1995, the all-new Bentley Azure Convertible was introduced, with seductive styling by Pininfarina in collaboration with Bentley’s own designers. Transcending Bentley’s luxury and refinement, the Azure was the world’s most powerful four-seat convertible – the automotive embodiment of an iron fist in a velvet glove.
Based on the Continental R and its Garrett turbocharged and intercooled 6.75-litre V8, the Azure offered about 420 hp and 645 ft-lbs of torque, propelling the nearly 2,800 kg car from rest to 100 km/h in under six seconds, en route to a top speed of 240 km/h – a stunning achievement. Production was very limited – just 1,321 cars between 1995 and 2003, of which just four Azure Le Mans Series Limited Edition examples were produced in commemoration of Bentley’s upcoming return to the famed 24-hour race. By comparison, over 130 Continental R Le Mans editions were built.
This particular left-hand drive Azure Le Mans Series shows just 8,400 kilometres and is finished in Peacock Blue Metallic with dual-tone Barley and Blue hides. Among its many Le Mans Series-specific features, the Azure’s exterior includes wing vents, fully flared wheel arches, 18-inch chromed alloy wheels and red brake callipers. Inside, the driver is greeted by a thick, two-tone steering wheel, chrome instrument dials, a Le Mans gear knob, drilled pedals, a Le Mans treadplate, Le Mans-specific identification and a stacked instrument console with a starter button and a turbo boost gauge. Complete with all standard Bentley comfort and convenience features, as well as fitted umbrellas and carpet over mats, the Azure has just received a full hydraulic service. With just one owner from new and service history, this rare Azure Le Mans Series Convertible is simply superb in every respect.
In Detail
| type | Series Production Car |
| built at | Crewe, England |
| production | 4 |
| aspiration | Garrett AiResearch Turbocharger |
| displacement | 6748 cc / 411.79001 in³ |
| power | 313.20001 kw / 420 bhp |
| specific output | 62.24 bhp per litre |
| bhp/weight | 150.0 bhp per tonne |
| curb weight | 2800 kg / 6174 lbs |
| length | 3061 mm / 120.5 in |
| transmission | GM 4-Speed Automatic |
| 0 – 60 mph | ~6 seconds |
