The foundation of Bentley Motors, in 1919 by Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley, set out to achieve the simple intention, “To build a good car, a fast car, the best in class”. One hundred years later, the company and W.O.’s motto is still relevant. Bentley is one of the most luxurious car brands on the market.
How are Bentley celebrating their 100-year anniversary?
A series of exclusive celebrations throughout 2019 will showcase the evolution, achievements and heritage of the brand during its 100-year history.
The first opportunity for Bentley, and car enthusiasts, to join the celebrations was at the 44th Salon Rétromobile. The Bentley stand featured the EXP 2, the first racing and oldest surviving Bentley model. The new Continental GT Convertible was also on display, demonstrating the brands journey in physical form.
Other events in 2019 include.
| EVENT | DATE | LOCATION |
| 13th Annual Boca Concours d’Elegance | 22-24 February | Boca Raton, Florida, US |
| W.O. Bonhams exhibition | 11 April | London |
| Bentley Drivers Club Centenary Extraordinary Drive | 15-31 March | Castle of Mey – Crewe – London |
| Benjafield Racing Club, W.O. race | 13 April | Silverstone race track |
| Mille Miglia | 15-18 May | Brescia – Rome – Brescia, IT |
| 24 Hours of Le Mans | 15-16 June | Le Mans, France |
| RREC Annual Rally & Concours | 21 June | Burghley house, England |
| Chantilly Arts & Elegance | 30 June | Chantilly, France |
| RROC National Meeting | 22-27 July | Detroit, US |
| Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance | 18 August | Carmel, California, US |
| Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance | 6-8 September | Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, UK |
Bentley Centenary Edition
The Geneva Motor Show (7th – 17th March) will witness the launch of a special edition Bentley to celebrate the centenary year.
There is very little information available at the time of writing, but a teaser image and video give a few clues about the release.
The teaser image features painted number 9 across a black grill, suggesting inspiration comes from the iconic 4 ½ litre Bentley Blower that raced at Le Mans 24 Hour in 1930. The theory is substantiated through Bentley’s preview video which includes footage of the race.
Whatever Bentley end up announcing, it will no doubt be an engineering masterclass. If you’re a current Bentley owner, Scuderia offer a wide range of original and tuning parts that will enhance your driving experience.