We are delighted to offer to market again this fine example of a Bentley Azure. Having sold this car to its last two owners, originally in 2016 and again in February 2024, we first saw this car in our workshop with the prior owner in 2015, so it is a car we know well and can assure it is a well-maintained example. The current owner has only seen time to cover 1,000 miles in his ownership, however did report to me that those miles were faultless and the car was a real pleasure to drive.

The Model

The Azure is an exquisite grand touring convertible, launched in 1995 it was met with high praise from the automotive world thanks to its craftsmanship, ride comfort, and performance. Built in limited numbers, only around 250 right hand drive examples of the first generation Azures were created.

Penned by legendary Italian design house Pinifarina, the Azure strikes you with its sleek, flowing silhouette. The car is wonderfully proportioned thanks to its long, elegant bonnet and swept back lines. A notable success of the Azure design is that the car looks just right regardless of whether the hood is up or down, too often cars can look awkward with a hood up or down, however the Azure looks well designed either way.

Constructed in coachbuilt fashion at Bentley's Crewe factory, where the finest materials were employed and combined with specialist hand-building techniques to ensure the Azure always felt special. It's full to the brim with character and is built like a tank, the craftsmanship on display with these motor cars is simply sublime.

Inside the car is opulantly appointed with Connolly hide and well figured burr walnut covering almost every surface. The cockpit has a wonderful layout with all instruments clearly laidout, the switchgear well-positioned and utilising nice materials, their action delivered with a satisfying, tactile weight. Of course, the airconditioning vents are controlled via polished metal organ stops in typical Bentley fashion. There is space aplenty with enough room for four adults to cruise in cosseted comfort.

On the road, forwards-waft is delivered by Bentleys powerful 6.75 litre turbocharged V8 producing around 385 bhp and more importantly 553 lb‑ft of torque, this assured the Azure an effortless cruising ability despite its large size. The commanding driving position helps to wrap up the very special nature of these cars.

At launch the Azure was the most expensive production car on sale, with pricing in the range of £200,000 in the mid-nineties. To add some perspective the average price of a home in the UK at that time was around £50,000. Despite its eye-watering price tag the car was well-received thanks to the details mentioned above and many, many more.

This Car

Originally built in July 1996, this vehicle was originally supplied to its first owner via the Cheltenham Bentley dealer S P Broughton & Co for the princely sum of £215,000 as detailed in the chassis card details supplied by the Bentley Enthusiasts' Club. The car comes with a significant history file which evidences regular servicing by Bentley main dealer Hadley Green Garage until 2001, Bentley specialist Hanlwells of London until 2009, Montague & Co until 2013, then ourselves since 2015.

Bodywork-wise the car presents well with the paintwork bright and with depth, the hood too is in great condtion. The interior of the car has also been well cared for with only a light patina. Although not a concours level car it really does present wonderfully and is an extremely useable example. The car drives exceptionally well, the engine feels great and the roadholding defying its age, its regular maintenance has ensured it continues to drive exceptionally.

In Summary

The Azure is an important Bentley. One of the last of the truly coachbuilt cars, marking the end of the pre-VAG era. At its time it was an exceptionally crafted motor car which used exquisite materials to ensure the occupants felt truly special. At the time that came at the cost of almost four family homes. Today it retains all its original charm and luxurious nature, however the cost of this example is far more palatable and is ready to be enjoyed. This would make an excellent car for summer jaunts, where would you take it?

We would be delighted to invite you to view and test drive this Azure so you too can be captivated by its charms. Please do get in contact to arrange an appointment.