Tribute to Bentley Mulsanne – A Timeless model – Bentley Motors Limited is a British automobile company, which produces and markets luxury cars and SUVs. Bentley has been a true inspiration; an embodiment of sheer durability, performance, and luxury as to its fine detailing and craftsmanship. Founded in the year 1919 by W.O. Bentley, it became popular for its high powertrain engines which included the Bentley 3 Litre and the Bentley 4½ Litre. And, have also won 24 Hours of Le Mans for several consecutive years.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ? WHY NOT SUBSCRIBE?
Tribute to Bentley Mulsanne – History of the Mulsanne
Bentley Mulsanne’s history dates back to the 1980s. Introduced as a sports luxury sedan in their T-series line up, Mulsanne was production for 12 years till 1992. The name “Mulsanne” was based on a 24 Hours of Le Mans race track section and called the “Mulsanne straight”; to pay homage to their motorsport history. The Rolls-Royce group also shared the 6.75-liter v8 engine at that time. But they wanted an identity back from the Rolls-Royce ownership. Hence, they introduced the Mulsanne Turbo which was 50% more than the regular outgoing model and the Mulsanne Turbo R. It produced a whopping 300 horsepower and 600 NM of torque and sold about 2000 models per year.
The Mulsanne was relaunched, later in 2010, as an Arnage line alternative. While launching, it came with the same 6.75-liter V8 engine. But later on, it was re-engineered and re-introduced as the Mulsanne Speed, capable of producing 530 BHP and 1100 Nm of Torque. Despite weighing over two and a half-ton, it can sprint from 0 to 100 KM in just 4.5 seconds. Thus making it a perfect blend of sportiness and luxury.
Even though the Mulsanne was an iconic model of Bentley, it had to be discontinued for the following reasons:
- The legendary 6.75 Litre V8 Engine (the longest continuously produced engine since 1959) could no longer be updated to meet the strict EU emission norms.
- The growing interest towards SUVs has also been a reason for many sports and luxury brands to introduced bandwagons and Bentley is no exception.
A Proper Farewell
Bentley has decided to give their elegant flagship model a proper tribute before sending it into a good night. Hence, they launched the 6.75 limited edition. Styled, and configured by famous coach-builder Mulliner, only 30 units were produced under this specification.
The 6.75-litre limited edition will get a small oil cap-shaped knobs replacing the famous little “organ stop” knobs for ventilation control. Other additions include the cutaway-style drawings of the L-series engine to the Mulsanne’s gauge faces and to the dashboard clock, chrome badging, special stitching, and puddle lights integrated with badge logo.
Replacements
“I am immensely proud of the hundreds of designers, engineers and craftspeople that brought the Mulsanne to life over the last 10 years”
Adrian Hallmark, CEO, Bentley Motors
The Head of Sales and Marketing announced that they don’t have any models to replace the Mulsanne. He also said that,
“Redeploying all of our manufacturing colleagues who currently work on the Mulsanne to other areas of the business”
Chris Craft, M.O.B Bentley Motors
However, it is expected that the Flying Spur model will serve as a flagship four-door luxury sports sedan. And, the Bentayga is the latest addition to the company’s line up and also the first luxury SUV.
What are your comments on this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below. Do check out other articles in the automobile section.
LIKE WHAT YOU READ? WHY NOT SUBSCRIBE?
Also, follow Just A Library for more interesting news on various domains.