What is more expensive than a Bentley? Rolls Royce or Bentley - who is better? Cost depends on
AT THE LATE 90s there came a period when the production of exclusive, ultra-expensive cars began to bring more losses than profits. Buyers were not eager to pay crazy amounts of money for fairly outdated and, to put it mildly, technically far from the most advanced cars. The Germans, having gained full control over Rolls-Royce and Bentley, tried to correct this situation. As it seemed to them then, the recipe for success in creating a car yourself top level quite simple: you just have to take a body designed in the spirit of old English traditions and equip it with high-tech German filling, and there will be no end to buyers. And so they did. The result was two very similar cars, but nevertheless fundamentally different in their internal content.
In order to see the external differences between the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph and the Bentley Arnage, you had to take a good look. The branded emblem, radiator grille, rims and, of course, the famous “Spirit of Ecstasy” figurine on the hood - that, in fact, is all that distinguished the exterior of “Silver Seraph” from “Arnage”. A non-specialist may not notice this. Although no, experts will correct me - this is not all. The stamping of the body side of all Rolls at the factory was decorated with the thinnest stripe, which a specially trained person carefully applied manually (!) with a brush. The standard Bentley did not have such a stripe. This design element, however, was included in the list of options, but was not popular among buyers. Paying several thousand dollars for a painted line is too much even for the fabulously wealthy Bentley buyers.
By the way, later this same stripe became a real nightmare for servicemen who repaired such cars after an accident. For many, it became an impossible task to restore the handwritten line when replacing or painting individual body parts. Few people succeeded in repeating the original brush stroke of a factory master, and in such a way that the transition was imperceptible. Apparently, in full accordance with old English traditions, in order to achieve success in this matter, he had to devote his whole life...
Under the hood of the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph is a smooth and silent V12. The interior is the embodiment of aristocratic luxury.
As already mentioned, despite the external similarity, technically the cars differed quite significantly. The Bavarians tried to breathe new life into Rolls-Royce and Bentley, giving them the best of what they themselves had. Both models received the most modern (at that time) BMW engines. A 4.4 liter V8 was installed under the hood of the “Arnage”, and the “Silver Seraph” was equipped with the flagship V12, the volume of which was 5.4 liters (326 hp). This 12-cylinder engine, without any changes, migrated to Rolls-Royce from the executive BMW 7 Series, and the initially less powerful V8 was additionally equipped with turbocharging, which increased its output to 354 hp.
This choice of engines looked very logical and natural. English traditions were observed impeccably. For Rolls-Royce cars, where power must be combined with a smooth ride, the perfectly balanced V12 was perfect. Moreover, they deliberately did not squeeze everything possible out of him. It was possible to remove a larger number of “horses” from such a volume, but this would be to the detriment of reliability and service life. Numerous tuning companies did this on BMW cars. But not on a Rolls-Royce! This approach was unacceptable for this brand. According to their ideology, such cars are simply obliged to live a long time, faithfully serving their owners for decades. And in an ideal case, it can even be passed on from generation to generation by inheritance. Naturally, they did not sacrifice reliability and durability for the sake of momentary gain and absolutely ridiculous tenths of a second for a respectable Rolls-Royce owner (when accelerating to “hundreds”).
With Bentley cars it is a completely different story. They were initially positioned as speedsters for the sophisticated owner, who would not mind letting a hired driver go for the weekend and show off his driving skills himself. Here, a slightly more powerful and much more “evil” V8 engine came in handy. The designers of “Arnage” already counted fractions of seconds very carefully. The resulting car had an enviable temperament. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, more than a second faster than the Rolls. For a car, full mass which is very close to three tons - a very impressive result. And thanks to the lighter 8-cylinder engine, the Bentley turned out to be sharper and more precise to drive than the front-heavy Rolls-Royce.
Exclusivity requires sacrifice
EXCEPT for the engines and minor parts, the design elements of the Silver Seraph and Arnage were identical. The only differences were the air suspension settings (“Bentley,” as befits a “sportsman,” was stiffer) and transmission gear ratios. But absolutely identical parts intended for different models, had different catalog numbers. Therefore, based on the requirements of the automaker itself, any interchangeability is strictly excluded. Even in real life It’s hard to imagine a situation where an official service technician will install on a “Rolls-Royce”, for example, ball joint from “Bentley” - cars are expensive, and the liability for violating the manufacturer’s instructions is too great.
Once every seven years, a “major maintenance” must be carried out, the cost of which can reach 7,000 euros.
As a spare part, a Bentley radiator grille costs 10,000 euros.
The same applies to spare parts from BMW cars (servicemen are often asked about this). Of course, German and Bavarian cars have general details. Nowadays, in order to reduce the cost of production, any automaker strives to unify its products. It even affected such luxury brands as Rolls-Royce and Bentley. For example, the on-board computer and climate control control unit installed on them are very similar (but not necessarily identical) to similar units used on BMW models. Therefore, in principle, it is technically possible to supply some parts from the BMW 7 Series to Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
Interest in “foreign” spare parts is completely justified. The thing is that “original” parts for Rolls-Royce and Bentley, to put it mildly, are not cheap. Quite consistent with the prices of these cars. For example, the radiator grille on the “Arnage” itself is a work of art and will cost the buyer (complete with surround) 10,000 euros. Windshield- about 5,000 euros. Based on these figures, you can imagine how much the most trivial accident or just a pebble flying out from under the wheel of a passing car will lighten the wallet of the owner of such an exclusive. True, in fairness it should be noted that such cars rarely get into accidents. Employees of the services explain this by the fact that they are usually driven by the best of the best hired drivers or fairly experienced and careful owners who simply do not suit boyish recklessness.
But if, God forbid, something happens to the car in Russia, then problems are inevitable. It is somewhere in Europe that Bentley guarantees the delivery of any spare part within three days. In case of emergency, if the required part is suddenly not in stock, it will be removed from the machine on the conveyor and sent to the customer. But in Russia these rules do not work. And it is by no means the fault of the automaker. A spare part from England is indeed delivered to customs in Sheremetyevo within three days, but it can lie there for more than one month. Owners can only wait, or... take their car for repairs to Europe. Previously, in the late 90s, many did this. In neighboring Finland, by the way, there is a good branded service.
In any case, regardless of the country of residence, restoring hand-built cars (such as RollsRoyce and Bentley) after an accident is a monstrously labor-intensive task. Official services don’t even have standards for body repairs. No one knows how many standard hours will be required, for example, to replace a damaged wing or door. At the manufacturing plant, the bodies of Rolls and Bentleys are welded by hand, and the parts are also manually adjusted to each other. When repairing, the service technician will have to repeat this difficult operation every time. There are simply no other options. If you order any body panel, you will receive not the part itself, but... its blank, which will not even have mounting holes. A service technician will have to adjust it to the location, if, of course, he has enough experience and skill.
Green or red?
The Bentley Arnage with a BMW engine was produced for only two years. Its production began in 1998, and was discontinued in 1999, when the Bentley brand was acquired by the Volkswagen concern. The first series of cars were called “Arnage Green Label”. Their radiator grille was decorated with a green corporate logo. Such machines are rarely found on the market and 2000 model year, but in fact they were produced according to pre-orders back in 1999, and were delivered to customers only in 2000.
Volkswagen, having acquired the Bentley company, for obvious reasons abandoned the Bavarian engine and installed a traditional English engine on the Arnage, which had previously been used on old Rolls-Royce and Bentley models. Thanks to its larger volume (6.75 liters) and turbocharging, it produced more than 400 hp. Data from different catalogs differ, the power of this engine is indicated either as 400 exactly, or as 405 forces. The updated “Arnage”, produced under the auspices of “Volkswagen”, was called “Red Label”. And the company logo on it was already red.
In addition, the second-generation “Arnage” was recognizable by its white direction indicators (on the “Green Lable” they were orange). Such a minor difference caused a craze among owners of cars produced in 1998-1999 to replace brand nameplates and turn signal lenses. There are still “Arnage Green Label” cars (with BMW engine), which outwardly look like newer and more expensive “Red Label” models from 2000-2004.
“Arnage Red Label” took much longer to produce than “Green Label” - a full four years. Accordingly, more such models were produced, and they are more often found on secondary market. For example, at the time of writing this material, only four first-generation Bentley Arnages and about a dozen of the second were sold in Moscow.
Several years ago in our country there was an absolutely real case when servicemen simply could not install a new trunk lid on a car that came from the factory. The qualifications of the craftsmen were beyond doubt, so an official complaint was sent to England. Representatives of the manufacturer came to Russia and testified on the spot that this body It is impossible to supply this (or a similar) part with exact compliance with all clearances and technological requirements. How this was done initially at the plant remains a mystery. Based on this examination, the manufacturer, at his own expense, replaced the client... no, not the trunk lid, but the entire body of the car.
The specificity of manual assembly leads to the fact that finding two absolutely identical cars It's simply impossible. If you carefully measure them on the slipway, then only the geometry of the chassis will match, all other dimensions will be different. Sometimes it comes to the point that floor mats from one Rolls-Royce do not fit another - they are cut out individually at the factory, based on the actual geometry of each specific body. The same applies to wooden inserts and overlays, leather upholstery elements, etc. Therefore, it is not at all by chance that the plant keeps original patterns and patterns of all such parts for each produced car.
Let's say a client damaged a wooden insert on a door panel with a lit cigarette. He contacts the manufacturer, gives the VIN number of his car and orders necessary spare part. The master takes from the warehouse a pattern, according to which this particular part for this particular car was made many years ago, and uses it to make an exact duplicate. This is what true exclusivity and individual approach to the client is!
What mileage does the tuxedo have?
Such an elegant external design of the Rolls engine was offered for an additional fee.
REGULAR Maintenance Both Rolls-Royce and Bentley must be tested either upon reaching a certain mileage or once a year. The latter happens much more often. The vast majority of owners of exclusive cars (regardless of their make and model) do not use their rarities every day, but only on exceptional special occasions - as prescribed by the rules of good manners accepted in high circles. That's why their mileage is simply ridiculous.
For example, according to servicemen, the famous Moscow sculptor and monumentalist has consistently, for many years in a row, driven his Rolls-Royce no more than 500-600 km. And that's quite normal. Previously, in the early 90s, when such cars were just appearing in our country, the newly minted rich used them in much the same way as they had recently used their Volgas and Zhigulis. When such units with an average annual mileage of 50,000-60,000 km came to Finland for service, local specialists simply fainted. They couldn’t imagine how one could drive such a car so much... It’s the same as walking around in a tailcoat or tuxedo every day.
The cost of average maintenance on a Bentley Arnage and a Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph is approximately the same. In Moscow it is about 2,000 euros. But once every seven years, according to the regulations, a “major maintenance” is required, which takes 29 standard hours (!) and costs the client 6,800-7,000 euros! You have to pay for originality and exclusivity even with a banal oil change in the engine. By the way, it is also supposed to be special, with the automaker’s logo on the packaging. And this is despite the fact that BMW’s own recommendations for choosing oil for its engines allow the use of products from most commercially available brands. Also high cost THAT also explains the price Consumables. For example, the original set of front brake pads for “Bentley Arnage Green Label” costs 600-800 euros in Moscow.
The consolation can be that, with the exception of routine maintenance, there are usually no other reasons to contact the service. According to experts, careful operation and short mileage contribute to this to a greater extent than the reliability of the main components and assemblies. However, no engine failures were actually recorded on either the Silver Seraph or the Arnage Green Label. Having strained their memory, servicemen remember that once someone had problems with the mass air flow sensor, but these are trifles.
Buying a Rolls or Bentley in Russia is cheaper than shipping such a car from Europe.
Another family disease of such cars is leaks of oil and other technological fluids. This is again due to short runs. The car sits motionless, the seals and gaskets dry out, and oil begins to drip onto the asphalt. However, not on the asphalt, but in a special oil pan, deliberately made in the form of a closed trough. If a driving Rolls leaves behind rainbow-colored oily stains on the road, this does not improve the image of its owner. To avoid this, they provided a special container for oil, which should be emptied during the next maintenance. By the way, old English engines suffered from this much more often than German ones. Then a common joke was born: the bad one english car, from under which nothing drips. But, as we have already found out, this unpleasant feature is caused not so much by design flaws, but by specific operating conditions and long machine downtimes.
Quite often, clients turn to the service immediately after a long winter stay. On-board computer begins to produce a whole scattering of various errors. In fact, it's nothing to worry about. Usually, all of them mean nothing, but are caused only by a drop in the voltage of the on-board network due to the natural discharge of the battery. To combat this, the manufacturer even developed special device, which monitors the voltage and automatically recharges the battery as needed.
The cost depends on..
The Bentley Arnage Red Label was equipped with a more temperamental engine than the Rolls. And the interior was decorated more sportily.
TALKING about the prices of Rolls-Royce and Bentley is as exciting as it is pointless. Especially when it comes to used cars. Conventional pricing principles do not apply here. More old car It may well cost more (many times more) than a newer one. Mileage does not affect the price in any way, but the personality of the previous owner often has a significant effect. What can we say about used cars, when even the price of new cars was determined very approximately.
In America in 1999, the cost of a new “Green Label” started from $220,000, “Silver Seraph” was a little more expensive - from $230,000. In Europe, they traditionally cost almost one and a half times more. But, if you look at it, these numbers don’t say much. The price tags indicated the base price of the cars, and the final one depended only on the wishes of the future owner, the set of options, the level of trim and quantity additional equipment. Thus, the price could double again. Moreover, which is typical, if “Bentley” in basic equipment is quite common, then it is simply impossible to see a standard “Rolls-Royce”. All the cars that came off the assembly line were different, as they were built to individual orders of future owners.
If you still try to analyze advertisements for the sale of used Rolls and Bentleys, you will find out that both cars can be bought in Moscow for approximately the same money - about $100,000. In Europe it will be more expensive - approximately 100,000-120,000 euros. And this is regardless of their original price and configuration. Apparently, a well-known market principle is at work here: buying an exclusive car is not easy, but it is possible, but selling it is almost impossible. At least for money adequate to its real value.
Even before the premiere, it was dubbed the main competitor of the Bentley Bentayga. And although the Rolls-Royce SUV turned out to be significantly more expensive, these two models will compete, which means they can be compared.
For starters, the Rolls-Royce Cullinan is 20 cm longer than the Bentley Bentayga - 5341 mm in length with a wheelbase of 3295 mm versus 5141 and 2992 mm, respectively.
Design is a subjective matter. Some people liked the strict style of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, while others liked the neoclassical style appearance Bentley Bentayga.
The interior trim of both SUVs is dominated by leather, wood and aluminum. Larger dimensions, of course, make the Rolls-Royce more spacious inside, and it also has a larger trunk volume - 560 liters versus 430.
Both Bentley and Rolls-Royce have equipment such as a virtual instrument panel, head-up display, 360-degree cameras and a night vision system.
Of course, premium SUVs received original accessories. Thus, the Cullinan is equipped with folding seats in the trunk, and for the Bentayga you can order sets for a picnic or elite hunting.
Both cars are equipped with 12-cylinder turbocharged engines (although the Bentayga has a V8 and even a diesel) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Bentley's 6.0-liter W12 develops 608 hp. With. and 900 Nm, and the 6.75-liter Rolls-Royce V12 – 570 hp. With. and 850 Nm.
The Bentayga is more powerful and lighter, and therefore is capable of accelerating to hundreds in 4.1 seconds and reaching 301 km/h. The dynamics of the Cullinan are still unknown (about 5.5 seconds to 100 km/h are expected), and the top speed is 250 km/h.
Both cars have adaptive shock absorbers and air suspension with variable ground clearance. The Bentley SUV is also equipped with active anti-roll bars.
The price of a Rolls-Royce Cullinan starts at $325 thousand, and you can buy a Bentley Bentayga for $195 thousand. Of course, the difference in price is significant, but in this segment this is not the most important factor.
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At first glance, all these lavishly equipped luxury chariots aim their branded, mighty grilles at the same lucrative market niches. In fact, they differ significantly in approach, environment and attractiveness. Bentley Flying Spur is a five-seater sport car old school that combines a superbly finished antique interior with a highly efficient chassis and drivetrain. Mercedes S600 looks like a dressed up S300. However, in its exquisite detail one can see the Technology Bible summarized. The Rolls-Royce Ghost S2 combines a signature icon that tries to make an impression with a talent full of ideas. But the trio are united by one quality - fuel gauges that synchronously lead to suicide - which once again proves: weight, resistance and a heavy right leg are the sworn enemies of efficiency.
Despite its recent update, Bentley remains the oldest car, and it knows it. The compact packaging belies the Spur's generous 5,299mm length. Stiff suspension was installed to ensure a low stance and speed, and the weight of 2.4 tons suggests that the hull is still made from Sheffield steel. The driver's seat is hard, shapeless and insufficiently adjustable, and the beautifully finished (intentionally period-style) interior lacks such modern amenities as paddle shifters, driver assistance systems and an advanced infotainment system. This vintage car is charming and definitely interesting in its own way. For a lower price, the S600 offers richer equipment, an endlessly plush ride and an additional half meter of cabin space. But you'll have to look a long time for a car that's long and luxurious enough to get you from point A to point B faster than a bad, black Bentley.
Alps
On a three-lane highway towards the Tyrolean Alps, Mercedes S-Class copes with speed more easily. Wide, well-balanced and securely planted, the car feels confident even when negotiating areas prone to hydroplaning, as well as wide expansion joints and ribbed surfaces. Anyone behind the ugly two-spoke steering wheel will benefit from customizable cruise control with automatic braking, automatic lane guidance, a night vision camera and an impressive the electronic unit control, which scans the road surface with three cameras and with the help of springs and adjustable shock absorbers smoothes out unevenness.
With the length of a Bentley, the S600 is huge inside and its seats are very comfortable. If you wish, parking will be done fully automatically. If necessary, the heating system will heat the surface door panels and the center console, and intelligent system lighting will eclipse its rivals in variety, range and sensitivity. Despite the fact that Mercedes is incredibly comfortable and safe, it is also attractive.
It's unexpected to hear such praise for the Ghost S2. The optional Dynamic Driving Package system, which showed amazing good result on a car with 19-inch winter tires. Fast responses to thick-rimmed steering wheel, improved stabilizers, steering air suspension and retuned shock absorbers - all this added a little precision and additional stability to the car. The slight lack of composure that made earlier versions of the Ghost frown at high speeds has disappeared - body roll and dive under braking are now better suppressed. Despite all its mass and inertia, Ghost began to accelerate more confidently. Another update is powerful LED headlights with integrated turn indicators. With the exception of more comfortable seats, the interior remains virtually unchanged, so instead of a tachometer there is still the same useless power reserve indicator.
Is it possible to drive these limousines?
The picturesque mountain range that connects the southern edge of Bavaria and a thin section of Austria spoils visitors with a series of promising roads. Avoiding the radar-infested expressways, we head southwest along a curved Class B road, passing through a couple of small passes and the occasional treacherous road. country roads, with narrow areas for one car. In all the sharp turns and, in addition, steep climbs, the Flying Spur has established itself as an undoubted leader. After all, it's the only one with all-wheel drive. This bonus active safety allows it to be invincible in terms of traction and reliability of wheel adhesion to the road. Add to this the 800 Nm of torque flavored by the 6-liter W12, and it becomes clear why Benz and Rolls have a nightmare with their rear wheels going into the distance. side lights Bentley. An 8-speed automatic transmission is responsible for speed distribution. It desperately lacks push-button controls to help it cope with steep descents, where even a very powerful composite braking system will hiss under pressure one way or another.
Despite the Dynamic Driving Package, there comes a time when Rolls chooses to slow down, and that moment comes sooner rather than later. With the ESP security system turned on, the Ghost quickly began to “slow down”. However, turn it off and you'll find yourself steering the Titanic along the upper forks of the Thames. It's the equivalent of wearing a tailcoat to compete in a decathlon - there's no point in trying to persuade a Rolls to become a ridiculous sports car. While Bentley also lays claim to the term "waftability" (Rolls-Royce's unique sense of effortless movement), it's not a better fit for the Ghost - once the road starts to narrow and the corners start to twist, the Rolls opts for a smooth ride. The highest torque of 770 Nm was at a low 1500 rpm, forcing you to be careful with the steering wheel and throttle valve in sharp turns. The car even uses a satellite navigation system to avoid unnecessary gear changes. In this limousine, more than in the other two, a relaxed driving style will be rewarded with overall refinement and luxurious privacy.
Like the W12 crammed into the Spur and the 6.6-liter V12 crammed into the Ghost, the 6.0-liter V12 that powers the S600 isn't exactly a new unit. The three-valve engine is derived from the original 5.5-liter V12, which was first introduced in the Maybach 57 in 2002. At 530 hp, the twin-turbocharged engine can't match the 571 hp. the Ghost or the even more muscular Bentley with 625 hp, but with 830 Nm of torque, the relatively light Mercedes is no slouch. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, beating its Goodwood rival by 0.3 seconds. While the S600 and Ghost show 260 km/h on the speedometer, the third musketeer can reach 320 km/h under certain circumstances. Such high speed figures rarely matter much, but controllability and stability always do. And here Benz has to fight from time to time to keep up. While the S63 AMG is available with the system all-wheel drive The 4Matic, comfort-oriented S600 lacks it, so ESP turns on the brains - especially when trying to keep up with the Flying Spur.
Luxury has many facets, and these three giants capture most of them with impressiveness. Space? The Mercedes is hard to beat here, and that sentiment extends to the rear seats, which offer generous legroom and headroom. Equipment? All the laurels once again go to Benz, which won't even charge extra for all these top-notch amenities. Ergonomics? Victory with a minimal margin goes to the inspired BMW car from Rolls-Royce, which is available only upon request and has an improved version of the iDrive system. The S600's driver's seat is fully loaded with touchpads, buttons and rotary dials. However, their maze is difficult to navigate, and some of them are questionably useful. Feeling festive? If you like the Teutonic style, soldered with excessive technical richness (automatic buckles, airbag on back seat, air freshener spray, etc.), then choose Mercedes. If you prefer the atmosphere of a gentleman's club, then a beautifully crafted and tastefully equipped Bentley will do the trick. However, to emphasize true presence and affluence, nothing can outshine the Ghost's exciting rear doors, eye-catching theatrical passenger seats and a tasteful yet functional driver's seat.
Can a V12 limousine be economical?
Economy is definitely not main characteristic in the super league. However, it is foolish to neglect fuel consumption, which made itself felt after all three cars drove back to Munich at night. If Mercedes consumes an average of 13.9 liters per 100 km, then the Ghost SII barely has 15.7 liters, and the biggest drinker is Bentley, which asks for all 18 liters.
It will be more difficult to save when buying the cars themselves. The cheapest (if it is appropriate to use such a term here) will be the S600 model, which sells for 197,000 Euros. The Bentley costs 214,000 Euros without extra equipment, but when you fit the big wheels... panoramic roof, good skin, entertainment center and a carbon-ceramic braking system, the figure will easily reach 273,000 Euros. Remains Ghost for 303,000 Euros basic configuration. Count on 400,000 Euros if we are talking about the dance-vocal specimen presented in this review.
To confirm the fact that these 12-cylinder engines occupy the top niche among the most vibration-balanced power units, we placed a coin vertically on each motor running on Idling. The coin remained on all three engines. Regardless of the type of car it powers, the W12 engine is the sportiest. It sounds a little rough under strain, raspy under full load and loud under partial load. To live up to expectations, the UK-built engine (which began life more modestly in the VW Phaeton in 2002) needs 6,000 rpm. The power limit comes at 6200 rpm, just like in a 6.0-liter Mercedes, but that's where the similarities end. The Mercedes S600 will produce maximum power from 4900 to 5300 rpm. Designed and manufactured in Munich specifically for the Ghost, the V12 engine needs 5,250 rpm to deliver maximum power. The attached seven-speed transmission is exceptionally smooth. The high status is emphasized by the absence of steering wheel selector paddles and the ability to select a control program. In the Benz, you can change gears with your fingertips or lock the program in Dynamic mode. The Spur remains the only rival to offer an 8-speed transmission, which features an extra gear ratio for better torque and speed distribution.
We expected an easy ride, simple gear changes and normal suspension tuning. We received all this, although to varying degrees. What surprised us was the overall strength of the braking system, which uses large discs that are sufficient to cope with even a heavy road train. With optional carbon-ceramic brake discs, the Bentley (shod in 21-in. summer tires) effectively absorbs kinetic energy at very high speeds, resulting in dynamic braking without any fade. The S600's 300kg superiority is paid for by reduction braking distance and reaction time. Even Rolls-Royce, which places emphasis more on appearance and absolute peace, prides itself on a strong and well-balanced braking system. The brake pedal only needs a slight pressure to start the process. To others common dignity our giants can be called unshakable directional stability. All three models are virtually invulnerable to the effects of cross winds, bad weather and changes in road surface. Sharp turns won't be a problem either, but our 36-cylinder convoy had to slow down sharply on every tight turn.
Conclusion
So, which luxury car is the best? Who will win? Benz becomes the leader. Undoubtedly, it has the most upscale interior, and it will spoil you with a bouquet of unrivaled devices. This is an exciting fast cruiser that will save you enough money to buy a beach house.
A werewolf might fall for a Bentley, a car that is essentially two in one: a smart and stylish four-door model genetically related to the Continental GT Speed, and a commitment to the traditional British character and art that is usually instilled in buyers who find the Jaguar XJR too worldly .
However, the oligarch will almost always reach for the keys to Ghost. Why? Because he will want to best car one of the best, the most representative and prestigious, perhaps the loudest, giving the proletariat every reason to be outraged.
Few of you know that the British automotive giant Bentley would hardly have survived to this day and would have delighted us with its wonderful models if not for the help of its competitor, Rolls Royce.
This dark and confusing story happened in the 30s of the last century, when the Bentley company was in bankruptcy, its workshops stood idle without orders, employees did not receive salaries, and the business of Walter Owen Bentley began to gradually die. But then the following happened...
The British automobile company Bentley, specializing in the production of luxury cars, has existed since 1919, when entrepreneur Walter Owen Bentley, together with engineers F. Barges and G. Varley, developed their first car and named it after Walter Owen's surname - Bentley.
But let's go back to 1930, when the legendary Bentley company lost its independence and priority in the global car market. Orders for luxury cars fell, Bentley workshops stopped, the company for a long time was in a state of bankruptcy due to incorrect marketing policies and old “boring to the eye” bodies and engines that did not correspond to the latest trends in automotive fashion, the founders of which were rightfully considered to be the British.
And then the notorious English trait of the northern character intervened - prudence and unity in difficult times.
Having gathered all their strength into a fist, the finally bankrupt Bentley company was saved by another automobile company, its British competitor - the auto giant Rolls-Royce. Through the mediation of the Napier company, Bentley became part of the elite automobile company Rolls-Royce. From this moment it began new stage in the history of the Bentley company, which in no way diminished the previously achieved high position in the automotive high society.
In 1955, the Bentley company, as part of the Rolls-Royce company, introduced the new legendary S-1 series (see my photo), demonstrating the final technical investment of Rolls-Royce and Bentley - a model called S-1.
The Bentley S-1 model was a copy of the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost model and was equipped with a 6-cylinder 4.9-liter engine with automatic transmission transmission And no matter how beautiful the Rolls-Royce is, Bentley still looks much more elegant and stricter.
Not long ago I already told you about the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud - Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III 1962 - . Today we will talk about the Bentley S-1... But let's return to Bentley.
Bentley S-1: based on the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud
Year of manufacture: 1958
Engine capacity: 4900 cc
Engine power: 137 hp
Number of cylinders: 6
Maximum speed: 170 km/h
Number of seats: 5
1.
Oddly enough, even a quick glance at the Bentley S-1 gives the impression that this is a Rolls Royce Silver Ghost... And this is partly true. 
2.
The rear bodies of Bentley and Rolls Royce are identical 
3.
But still, Bentley's wings are more elegant 
4.
And the front wing of the Bentley S-1 is more interesting in design 
5.
And of course, the most important difference from the Rolls Royce is single headlights 
6.
Oh yes, Bentley is wonderful 
7.
Although essentially it's a Rolls Royce 
8.
If it weren't for Beshka's nameplate 
The progenitor of the Bentley S-1 was the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. Royce was produced from 1955 to 1966. During this time, 7868 copies of the Silver Cloud were produced different modifications. This was the most successful classic Rolls-Royce model in its entire life, as the company's clients said. Latest versions Silver Cloud were already deprived of that classical severity and elegance.
Characteristics of this Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud model, details about the car -
Year of manufacture: 1955
Engine capacity: 4900 cc
Engine power: 165 hp
Number of cylinders: 6
Maximum speed: 171 km/h
Number of cylinders: 5
Number of cars produced: 2238
Technically comparing two completely identical and similar different cars- Bentley S-1 and Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, we can conclude - Rolls-Royce has maximum speed 1 km/h more than Bentley S-1. This symbolic inequality of two identical cars was not done by chance - Rolls-Royce took the bankrupt Bentley company under its financial wing in order to maintain the leadership of British cars in the world market.
9.
Read more about Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud - 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I - 
10.
Unlike the Bentley S-1, the Rolls Royce Silver Ghost has straight fenders and dual headlights. And perhaps that’s all. All the main differences end there. 
11.
And yes, this is not a Bentley, but a Royce Royce. But what difference does it make? 
12.
I don’t know about you, but personally, from a design point of view, I really like more expensive version Rolls Roysya Silver Ghost - Bentley S-1 
These are the same and at the same time different two legendary cars.
By the way, which car did you like better - Bentley or Rolls-Royce?
Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost - 1921 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost Tourer -
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud - 1962 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III -
Bentley S-1 or how Rolls-Royce helped its competitor - Bentley S-1 1958 -
Rolls-Royce increased sales in Russia and set a record -
Here's some more sweet stuff...
Bugatti Type 57 - Bugatti Type 57 Stelvio Cabriolet - 1935 -
Rolls-Royce Phantom I Piccadilly Roadster - 1927 Rolls-Royce Phantom I Piccadilly Roadster -
1930 Cadillac V16 Fleetwood Convertible Coupe -
Jaguar E-Ture - Jaguar E-Tape 1961-1975 - The Story of the Ugly Duckling -
Ferrari 250 GT Lusso Berlinetta - 1963 Ferrari 250 GT Lusso Berlinetta -
Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud - 1955 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud I -
We all remember how in 1998 the owners of Vickers decided to get rid of the assets of Rolls-Royce Motors. Of the contenders for the luxury brand, they were most impressed by BMW, which already produced engines and components for Rolls-Royce and Bentley limousines. However, the final BMW price, amounting to 340 million pounds sterling, was outbid by businessmen from Volkswagen AG, who offered a little more - 430 million pounds. It seems that the British should rejoice, but the engineering Rolls-Royce Group plc (production of equipment for aviation, ships and power equipment) decided that the rights to use the Rolls-Royce trademark and logo will still go to “Bavarian engines”, with which the company has long been associated business relationship. Although VW acquired the rights to the famous “Spirit of Ecstasy” and the design of the radiator grille, designed in the style of the pediment of an ancient temple, it was not able to produce Rolls-Royce cars without a logo and a name. Over the past 15 years, Bentley has proven in practice how successful it is. . If in 1998 the company managed to find buyers for only 414 limousines, then last year in 2013 there were more than 10,000 people (before that, the sales record was in 2007 - 10,014 units). Thus, the increase compared to 2012 was 19%. The operating profit recorded in the status report grew even more rapidly. If in 2011 it was 8 million euros, then in 2012 it was already more than 100 million euros. The noble “daughter” of BMW is not yet able to withstand the onslaught of Bentley. Last year, Rolls-Roys sold only 3,630 cars on the planet - an increase by 2012 of about 2%. There is no mention of income at all. The 1,000-vehicle mark was exceeded for the first time relatively recently, in 2007. Bentley's commercial success did not go unnoticed by its competitors. The head of Rolls-Roys Motor Cars, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, compares his brand to “a jewel from the British royal treasury.” In Bavaria they look at their “daughter” in a similar way. “This brand is a jewel for the concern. We are very pleased with the income,” assures BMW representative. Businessmen from Munich consider the comparison of Rolls-Roys with Bentley to be incorrect, since for them Rolls is an order of magnitude higher class. The Bavarians always voice this when critics point out the successes of their main counterpart. “Compared to the same Phantom, any Bentley car is almost a mass product,” BMW retorts. - Rolls-Roys buyers appreciate the high cost of the car and the small number of copies produced. All this is a kind of proof of our exclusivity; our customers do not want to see similar cars on every corner.” Wealthy buyers from the USA, China and the Middle East do not skimp on shelling out 400,000 euros for a limousine. And, according to Mr. Müller-Ötvös, the company has no intention of going down in price positioning. However, Stefan Bratzel, an auto expert at a special higher educational institution economy in Bergisch Gladbach, considers these words of the Rolls-Roys top manager to be a banal excuse. In his opinion, it is necessary not only to follow traditions, but also to improve the products of a respected brand. According to experts, Volkswagen has surpassed its rival in terms of improvement. With your Continental GT Bentley company eliminated the gap that existed between business limousines from German manufacturers and the luxury segment. The brand has created an independent family, one step below Arnage. Rolls-Roys tried to hit back by building the giant Ghost in 2009, but the number of units sold lags far behind the Continental GT. Bentley's next move was the announcement that in 2016 the company will release its own SUV. According to rumors, several buyers have already left pre-orders for the new product. A year later, a hybrid version will hit the market, which is intended for wealthy customers in the US and China. There is little such information from Rolls - only the electric limousine 102 EX, which was presented back in 2011, as well as the Phantom with pure electric drive, now lost in the brand's museum. So who makes their cars better? When it comes to the number of units sold and the development of the model palette, the cup, of course, goes to VW. Yet Norbert Reithofer, chairman and chief executive of BMW, cannot be considered a loser. In the Luxury segment there are other challenges and criteria in which the success of the enterprise must be measured and, above all, traditions that exist independently of fashion cycles. Independent experts call for assessing the company's success not only and not so much by the operating profit that both luxury brands receive. In their opinion, operating profit serves as reassurance only for shareholders and in order not to scare away the buyer. There is something more to this whole story...
