Celebrating 20 Years of the Bentley Continental GT: A Special One-Off Creation
Bentley has reached a significant milestone with its iconic Continental GT model. The luxury automaker recently showcased a very special one-off car at “The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering” during Monterey Car Week. This unique vehicle commemorates the 20th anniversary of the Continental GT, which marked a turning point in Bentley’s history after Volkswagen acquired the company.
The star of the show was the very first production Continental GT, VIN20001, displayed alongside its modern counterpart, a third-generation Continental GT inspired by its predecessor. Both cars share the same Cypress Green paint, Saddle leather upholstery, and Burr walnut veneer, paying homage to the original 2003 model. However, the modern version, crafted by Bentley’s in-house customization department Mulliner, features some impressive enhancements.
Mulliner has honed its skills over the past two decades, and the 2023 model showcases their expertise. The seats are adorned with accent hides and contrast stitching in “Special Green,” adding a touch of elegance to the Saddle interior. The trim on the fascia and waist rails boasts open pore Dark Burr Walnut and high-gloss Dark Burr Walnut sections, separated by a Cypress green pin stripe.
On the exterior, the 2023 Continental GT benefits from the Blackline, Touring, and Styling Specifications. These enhancements include polished black exterior brightware, a carbon fiber front splitter, side skirts, and diffuser, as well as a subtle trunk lid spoiler. The car is equipped with 22-inch Sports Wheels in Dark Grey Satin, a finish exclusive to this one-off model.
To mark “20 years of the Continental GT by Bentley Mulliner,” the car features special badges throughout. Additionally, drawings of both the 2003 and 2023 models adorn the fascia, center console, and door sills. This unique creation has already been sold to its lucky owner, who received the keys at The Quail, although the price remains undisclosed.
In addition to the one-off car, Bentley has also created a special Continental GT “baton” that will embark on a tour of Europe, Asia, and the U.S. This baton will be passed from car to car, with each steward collecting 20 mementos along the way. Once the tour concludes, the baton and its souvenirs will be placed in a time capsule at Bentley’s headquarters in the U.K., serving as a permanent reminder of the car’s remarkable journey.
The Bentley Continental GT has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the automotive industry over the past two decades. It represents a fusion of timeless design, exquisite craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. The one-off anniversary model and the symbolic baton tour highlight Bentley’s commitment to celebrating this milestone and its dedication to creating exceptional luxury vehicles.
As Bentley looks back on its history, it is clear that the acquisition by Volkswagen was a pivotal moment that propelled the brand to new heights. The Continental GT, with its blend of performance and luxury, captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide and set the stage for future Bentley models.
The 20th-anniversary celebration serves as a testament to Bentley’s unwavering pursuit of excellence and innovation. With each passing year, the brand continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to drive in ultimate luxury. As we look forward to the future, it is exciting to imagine what Bentley has in store for the next 20 years and beyond.
In conclusion, the 20th anniversary of the Bentley Continental GT is a momentous occasion for both the brand and automotive enthusiasts. The one-off anniversary model and the symbolic baton tour showcase Bentley’s rich heritage, exceptional craftsmanship, and forward-thinking vision. As we celebrate this milestone, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Bentley’s illustrious history.