Bentley’s commitment to celebrating its illustrious past has never been more resounding. This summer, the Bentley Heritage Collection shone across the world’s most prestigious automotive events, achieving historic wins and setting new milestones. With the collection now proudly showcasing 50 meticulously restored vehicles spanning over a century of craftsmanship, the marque’s presence at the Pebble Beach, Salon Privé, and Hampton Court concours events has cemented its legacy as a guardian of luxury, performance, and design excellence.
The highlight of the summer came at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where the one-of-a-kind 1939 Mk V Corniche made history as the first ever manufacturer-entered car to be fully judged at the celebrated event. Its flawless restoration and extraordinary pedigree set a new benchmark for authenticity and elegance, embodying Bentley’s ethos of heritage reborn through passion and precision.
Further underscoring the collection’s influence, the 1953 R Type Continental, a cornerstone in Bentley’s design evolution, triumphed as best-in-class at Salon Privé Concours. This iconic model is widely recognised as the blueprint from which today’s Continental GT draws both its name and distinctive design DNA, blending aerodynamic sophistication with luxurious refinement. Its victory reaffirmed Bentley’s enduring appeal among connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The spirit of automotive history was equally celebrated at the Hampton Court Concours of Elegance, where the 1930 8 Litre saloon, once driven by founder W.O. Bentley himself, claimed the award for best manufacturer-entered car. A testament to the marque’s pioneering spirit, the vehicle’s timeless design and storied past captivated the judges, evoking nostalgia while showcasing the engineering prowess that defined Bentley’s golden era.
The success of these concours appearances is not merely about awards—it represents the culmination of Bentley’s painstaking restoration efforts. The Heritage Collection now features 40 driveable, road-legal classics and 10 ready-to-run racing machines, each carefully curated to tell the story of Bentley’s evolution over 106 years. It is a living archive, where each car’s restoration honours its original craftsmanship while embracing modern techniques to ensure longevity.
Bentley’s presence at these world-class events reflects more than a celebration of its past—it is a statement of its future. By nurturing its legacy and sharing it with enthusiasts across continents, the brand deepens its connection to connoisseurs, collectors, and the wider automotive community. Every concours appearance becomes a chapter in Bentley’s ongoing narrative of elegance, endurance, and innovation.
As the Heritage Collection continues to expand, Bentley’s vision remains clear: to offer experiences that transcend mere ownership and inspire generations. Whether it’s a milestone win at a global concours or the unveiling of a rare restoration, the collection stands as a testament to the marque’s unwavering dedication to luxury, craftsmanship, and the timeless pursuit of perfection.
