A Symphony of Heritage and Modernity: Bentley Stuns Monterey with Vintage Revival and Bold New Models
Monterey Car Week 2024 witnessed an extraordinary showcase of Bentley’s rich legacy and forward-thinking innovation. The prestigious event, known for celebrating the finest in automotive design and engineering, was the stage where Bentley unveiled a trio of significant firsts, each embodying the brand’s timeless elegance and cutting-edge technology.
1961 S2 Drophead Coupe Steals the Show at Pebble Beach
Marking a historic moment, Bentley’s meticulously restored 1961 S2 Drophead Coupe became the first Bentley entered by the marque itself into the renowned Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. This rare masterpiece, one of just 15 crafted by Mulliner, represents the pinnacle of 1960s luxury. Following a two-year restoration, the S2 Drophead Coupe, adorned in a stunning Ming Blue finish, captivated the audience, showcasing Bentley’s dedication to preserving its heritage.
US Debut of the Continental GT Speed: A New Era of Performance
Monterey also served as the backdrop for the US debut of the fourth-generation Continental GT Speed, Bentley’s latest high-performance grand tourer. A personalized model, crafted by Bentley’s bespoke division Mulliner, led a fleet of over 30 pre-production vehicles, offering journalists and potential customers their first taste of this extraordinary machine. The new GT Speed, powered by Bentley’s Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to blending power with sustainability.
Speed Six Continuation Series: A Glorious Return to the Roads
In another nod to Bentley’s storied past, the Speed Six Continuation Series made its on-road debut at Monterey. This faithfully recreated version of the legendary 1930 Speed Six, which dominated the 24 Hours of Le Mans, embodies Bentley’s passion for reviving its racing heritage. Handcrafted to exacting standards, this continuation model delivers an authentic driving experience, bridging the gap between Bentley’s historic achievements and its future ambitions.
Bentley Environmental Foundation: Driving Sustainability with SeaTrees
Beyond automotive excellence, Bentley reinforced its commitment to environmental stewardship at Monterey Car Week. The Bentley Environmental Foundation announced a new partnership with SeaTrees to restore critical kelp forests along key US coastal sites. This initiative underscores Bentley’s vision of luxury that respects and sustains the natural world.
A Week of Glamour and Grandeur
Throughout Monterey Car Week, Bentley’s presence was nothing short of spectacular. Nearly 90 Bentleys converged on the Peninsula, with over 3,000 guests partaking in exclusive events, including the iconic Beach Dinner at Seal Rock and the glamorous Signature Party. The culmination of Bentley’s participation came at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where the 1961 S2 Drophead Coupe and a new Continental GTC Speed graced the event, leaving a lasting impression of Bentley’s unique blend of heritage and innovation.
Restoration Perfection: The Story of UFF 366
The 1961 Bentley S2 Drophead Coupe, chassis number UFF 366, is a masterpiece of restoration. Originally finished in Regal Red with a tan interior, the car was painstakingly brought back to life by Bentley Heritage partners P&A Wood. The restoration involved returning the body to its original glory, overhauling the mechanical systems, and reapplying authentic details, such as the gold fine line trim. Now finished in the lustrous Ming Blue, UFF 366 stands as a testament to Bentley’s unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and historical accuracy.
Bentley’s stunning display at Monterey Car Week 2024 highlighted not just the brand’s illustrious past, but its forward-looking vision, ensuring that Bentley remains synonymous with luxury, performance, and sustainability for generations to come.
