2005 Bentley Arnage
Expert Reviews
By Jim Flammang
Cars.com National November 5, 2004Vehicle Overview
The 2005 Bentley Arnage sedan comes in regular R and high-performance T forms. The company says each Arnage model has been completely re-engineered from bumper to bumper.
The Arnage T has a 450-horsepower twin-turbo V-8 that produces 645 pounds-feet of torque; it's the most powerful road-going Bentley ever produced. New front and rear bumpers and redesigned tailpipes and side sills are installed. This version has a reduced amount of chrome. New seats have diamond-pattern upholstery. A 400-hp V-8 powers the Arnage R.
Bentley also offers an Arnage RL limousine that features a 9.8-inch wheelbase extension. Most RLs are likely to be chauffeur-driven. Developed by the Bentley Mulliner organization, the RL can be configured in just about any way to suit its owner. Broad D-pillars sit behind the rear doors, a small back window is installed, and passengers sit deeply recessed in the rear compartment. Interior fittings are discreet, but two 12-inch DVD screens are installed.
On Jan. 1, 2003, Volkswagen took full control of Bentley Motor Cars. At the same time, BMW took the helm of Rolls-Royce, which had been partnered with Bentley since the 1920s. More than half of all Bentleys are modified by the Bentley Mulliner coach-building arm.
Exterior
New styling for 2005 includes round headlamps with xenon low beams and halogen high beams. The hood line has been revised, and buyers can choose between two front grille patterns. New wheels are available for all models.
Bentley sedans are largely hand-built. These four-door cars are similar to the now-departed Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph but look slightly different and feature several unique characteristics. Buyers can choose one of the 40 factory body colors or specify a two-tone combination.
Arnage T sedans get a sport-tuned suspension and new seven-spoke, 19-inch alloy wheels. The minimally chromed exterior includes front fog lights. The grand-touring Arnage R has a comfort-tuned suspension, and 18-inch wheels hold Pirelli P-Zero tires. Bentley offers an Arnage RL sedan with a wheelbase that's 9.8 inches longer for more backseat space.
The outside mirrors feature electrochromatic glass to reduce night glare and can fold in electronically when required. A 26.4-gallon fuel tank is installed for good reason, as fuel economy isn't a reason to buy a Bentley.
Interior
For 2005, the Arnage's interior has been updated with a new dashboard top and instruments. Secondary controls are hidden behind veneered panels. Bentley buyers may choose walnut, oak, bird's-eye maple or black lacquer interior trim to complement the 27 interior leather options.
Tucked amid all this traditional luxury are several technological treats. A new DVD-based satellite navigation system is installed. The driver's seat automatically moves rearward to ease entry and exit, and both sides of the rear seat also move.
Under the Hood
In regular R form, Bentley's twin-turbocharged 6.8-liter V-8 develops 400 hp and 616 pounds-feet of torque. Output escalates to 450 hp and 645 pounds-feet of torque in the Arnage T. Both engines work with a four-speed-automatic transmission. Bentley says the Arnage T will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, versus 5.9 seconds for the Arnage R. Bentley engines earn a Low Emissions Vehicle rating.
Safety
Antilock brakes, traction control, an electronic stability system, and side-impact and side curtain-type airbags are standard.
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