100 Years: The First Bentley Car

Bentley is approaching its centenary, but many people do not know its humble beginnings. The first Bentley Car rolled out of the garage almost one hundred years ago. Besides having an inspired founder, the company has always had dedicated employees who pay great attention to every part of the car. The Bentley of today is a reflection of the Bentley Boys and Girls of the 1920s. And the innovators of today continue to make Bentley history better than ever.

THE EARLY DAYS

During the early days of car racing in the 1900s, W.O. Bentley imported cars from France. On one visit to the French factory, however, he noticed a lightweight aluminum molding and decided to use it to improve the pistons in an engine. Previously, aluminum was not deemed a good material as it was prone to melting and was not durable, but W.O. quickly realized that combining it with copper would result in a durable alloy.

DURING AND AFTER WWI AND WWII

During World War I, the UK Air Force also used aluminum pistons to make lighter and more powerful aircraft. The durability of aluminum alloy revolutionized the automobile industry and Bentley Motors evolved in July 1919 with the first Bentley car. After the first World War, Bentley made pistons from this alloy and began to win races. Within a few years, Bentley was making dependable cars that primarily attracted young wealthy people, who were known as the “Bentley Boys and Girls.” Bentley cars were entered in many races, including the grueling 24 hours of Lemans, and had five winners in seven years. For the next four decades, Bentley car history was made on the racing circuit, and its reputation was established as a leader in the world of racing. However, World War II would change this. 

Up until WWII, high-end cars made by Bentley were not complete cars; the company only sold rolling chassis to coachbuilders. The first full Bentley car (the Continental Fastback Coupe) was released in the 1950s, but did not immediately catch on. The company saw turbulent times for most of the 1960s through the 1980s because many other automakers had started to produce luxury cars and competition was stiff. It was only after Volkswagen acquired the business in 1997 that Bentley’s fortunes turned, adding to the Bentley car history. Volkswagen upgraded the factory in Crewe, England, and made sure that the total car was made on-site and gradually production increased. 

BENTLEY CREWE FACTORY IN ENGLAND

At present, about 4,500 people work at the ultra-modern Crewe factory and they produce about 12,000 vehicles a year.  Most Bentleys are assembled at the Crewe location, with a small contingent being assembled in Dresden, Germany, at a Volkswagen plant.

NEW BENTLEYS IN HIGH DEMAND

Today if you want a particular new Bentley, you may have to wait at least a year because of the huge demand for these luxurious cars. If you are looking for a pre-owned vehicle, however, check out our inventory. Bentley car history has come a long way and has been perfected as one of the top luxury car makers in the world. Over the decades, more than 200,000 Bentleys have been delivered to satisfied customers.

THE CLASSICS AND THE FUTURE

After the first Bentley car, some of the classic Bentleys that have been released over the years include the Flying Spur, the Bentayga, the Mulsanne, the Continental GT, and the open-air Bacalar, just to name a few. If you want a Bentley, the average base price is around $240K; add in the extras and you are looking at a car that could reach about $450K. Rest assured, however, these are great luxury cars with all the possible amenities you could ever need. It reflects wealth and royalty.

The future looks even more promising as Bentley has entered the world of electric vehicles and is hoping that, by 2030, all its luxury cars will be green. The first electric Bentley is set to be released in 2025 and will continue to add to the impressive Bentley car history.

For more information on all-things-Bentley and/or to take a look at what might be available today, consult with Braman Bentley at 1-561-926-9111.  Their knowledgeable staff will be happy to speak with you.