Bentley

W.O. Bentley, an engineer and passionate racing driver, formed Bentley Motors in 1919 in Cricklewood, north London. The early 3 Litre won Le Mans in 1924 and 1927; the 4.5 Litre and legendary 6.5-litre Speed Six dominated thereafter. The so-called Bentley Boys, Woolf Barnato, "Babe" Barnato, Tim Birkin, Glen Kidston, were wealthy gentlemen racers who funded and drove the cars at Le Mans, becoming celebrities as famous as the cars themselves. Financial difficulties led Rolls-Royce to acquire Bentley in 1931; for decades thereafter Bentleys were essentially badge-engineered Rolls-Royces. Vickers acquired the group in 1980, and Volkswagen Group purchased Bentley in 1998. The Continental GT of 2003 marked a decisive renaissance: its 552 bhp twin-turbocharged W12 engine and panoramic coupe body attracted a new generation of buyers while honouring the grand touring tradition. Bentley is now electrifying its range, with BEV models planned from 2026.