Among the rich and famous, Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars have always been a preferred mode of transportation. These are cars that no one else can afford. You can be a luxury pretender with ownership of a BMW or Mercedes-Benz, thanks to entry-level models.

Prestige is garnered by years at the top. Maybach was Mercedes-Benz’ effort to break into this market, which has two establishes players. As most of us probably know, it didn’t go as well as Mercedes had oped. Quite a few celebrities jumped on board with the car though, and according to Automotive News, Bentley is making an effort to go after them.

Bentley Chief Executive Officer Wolfgang Duerheimer said as much at the Detroit auto show: “The withdrawal of Maybach is a business opportunity for us and we’re going to use it.” Rolls-Royce was less zealous: “We naturally welcome any current Maybach customers…..but seeking them out and hunting them down is not the Rolls-Royce way.”

Duerheimer says he’s hearing from Maybach customers, and they feel abandoned. Analysts think that these buyers wanted something more exclusive than a Mercedes-Benz in the first place, and won’t be heading back to the more plebeian brand. To win them over, Bentley is inviting high-profile customers to its factory in Crewe, England for a VIP tour. It isn’t clear if this offer is being extended to Maybach owners going years back, ones recently are just a certain select few. 200 Maybachs were sold last year, but a whole lot more than that was sold over the car’s lifespan, making it a potentially big market opportunity.

What’s more than the actual sales too is product placement from high-profile customers. Maybach owners include the Sultan of Brunei, Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich and the Spanish monarchy. If a good percentage move over to Bentleys thanks to a letter writing campaign by the CEO and a few VIP trips to England, it will definitely be more cost effective than any advertising campaign.

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Realizing that a large chunk of the world population is ill prepared to afford a high-end luxury car, the niche sector of the automobile industry catering to wealthy, elite clientele continues to roll strong. Mercedes-Benz, Maserati, Audi and Lotus have or are planning to expand their line-ups reacting to a marketplace that still demanding premium vehicles. Surprising or not, many luxury car companies have enjoyed sales success despite turbulent global economics. With end of year sales results being released for 2011, Volkswagen-owned British brand Bentley Motors published a sizable improvement in the super luxury car business.

In the twelve months of 2011, Bentley Motors sold 7,003 cars to customers across the world. In only the month of December, Bentley recorded 1,069 cars were sold becoming the luxury brand’s most successful month since 2007. In comparison, there were more Chevrolet Traverse crossover vehicles produced during the month of November than the entire year for Bentley. However, when the price tag of a new Bentley Flying Spur and Continental GT is roughly seven times higher than a Traverse, its is reasonable to consider the 7,000-plus sales tally for 2011 as a successful run. Calculated as a 37 percent growth over the 2010 calendar year, the Crowe, England builder of exclusive automobiles enters the New Year basking in some big gains in key markets. In 2011, Bentley saw 1,839 products sold in the emerging economic hotspot. Only four years prior, China sales accounted for only 338 vehicles for the Volkswagen-owned Bentley division. Though Chinese customers have rapidly become a major supporter of the Winged ’B’ badge, the United States remains the most important single market for Bentley sales accounting for 2,021 vehicles sold during the 2011 year.

A company that existed in the shadow of Rolls-Royce from 1931 until Volkswagen’s purchase in 1998, Bentley underwent the first major brand identification in over 65 years. Established in 1919 as a premium performance car company, the Bentley automobiles created after the Volkswagen ownership solidified was a 21st century reinvention of the once-idolized brand. Reconnecting with sports car racing roots at Le Mans, Bentley Speed 8 prototype’s overall victory at the 24-Hour race in 2003 gave the British luxury car brand a chance to shake the once-stale image. In the 2003 year, sales for the Bentley Motors amounted to a mere 1,017 cars. In a matter of 7 years, the sales for Bentley sales peaked to over 10,000 units for what was a record year in 2007.

Through 2011, the Bentley division consisted of the flagship Mulsanne, as well as the Continental series of two-door and four-door vehicles. Amounting to 2,404 (34 percent of the brand-wide sales in 2011), the reengineered Bentley Continental GT coupe was a big winner for the super luxury division. For 2012, the Continental edition has increased influence with the addition of the GTC convertible and a more ‘affordable’ V-8 powered Continental GT coupe.

Wolfgang Dürheimer, the Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors commented on the past year production numbers proudly saying, “It has been a tremendously good year for Bentley. The dramatic sales growth reflects a global strength to the Brand and a recognition of the quality, craftsmanship and engineering excellence of our cars.”

Information and photo source: Bentley Motors

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Bentleys have always been powered by 12-cylinder engines. Not necessarily a V-12 though, as the latest Bentley-developed cars are Volkswagen Group W-12s. The Continental GT has followed through with 12-cylinder power that since its introduction in 2003. For the second generation car, Bentley announced it would be available with a V-8 for the first time. The goals?

To lower the car’s asking price, as it would be the new entry level model, as well as increase fuel efficiency. Until now we hadn’t heard many details about it, as Bentley wanted to keep the attention focused on the 12-cylinder until its launch. Bentley announced the twin-turbocharged Continental GT will be making its debut at the North American International Auto Show next month.

The engine in question is a 4.0-liter V-8 making 500 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque. In comparison the W-12 powered Continental GT has 631 horsepower. The engine has cylinder deactivation, high-pressure direct injection, low friction bearings and innovative packaging of the turbocharger that aim to achieve Bentley’s goal of 40 percent fuel economy savings. Full fuel economy figures haven’t been released yet, but the Continental GT V-8 should get around 21 mpg on a tank.

That is based on Bentley quoting 500 miles from a tank of gas.That is a nice savings over the 12-cylinder car. 0-60 arrives a bit under the 5 second mark, which is great performance for “only” a V-8. If we had the money, the V-8 would probably be the choice we’d make.

Less expensive, better fuel economy (although that probably wouldn’t be high on our list at that point….) and great power. Since its introduction, the Continental lineup (including the Flying Spur) has sold 50,000 units. That makes the Bentley factory in Crewe, England the largest producer of 12-cylinder engines in the world. The V-8 will model will mark yet another chapter in the Bentley saga.

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The Volkswagen Group is great about keeping the automotive press and fans up to date on what is going on behind the scenes. At Bentley, Chief Executive Officer Wolfgang Durheimer (who is also Bugatti’s CEO) confirmed in August that a new SUV is on its way. Both brands under Durheimer’s tutelage are set to expand into new market segments. To him, the logic for expanding the lineup is quite clear. Bentleys are about offering some of the best and most exclusive models out there, and why can’t that definition include an SUV? It can. They offer increased capabilities and space – something that isn’t inconsistent with Bentley’s brand values.

What it must be, however, is the best SUV out there. One of the ways it will do that is by being the only current manufacturer to offer a 12-cylinder gasoline engine in a production SUV. It won’t be the first to offer one ever though, as Lamborghini’s LM002 takes that title. The particular unit in question would be the VW’s Group’s W12 unit, which enables efficient packaging.

The VW Group has vast experience in high-end products combined under one roof; if anyone can make a truly premium SUV they can. Autocar reports that Rolf Frech, who worked on the Porsche Cayenne, has been moved over to Bentley to work on the project. The new Bentley will share components with another SUV, likely to be the Audi Q7 given Bentley’s heritage. It will be big, imposing and spacious – just like Bentley cars. The unnamed SUV will be unique much in the way the Continentals are now versus other VW products: “the systems architecture will be Bentley. The command position, the packaging, design and suspension of the car will be typically Bentley” says Durheimer.

Model runs at Bentley a long time: from six to eight years (the Continental GT had a run from 2003 to 2011), so the SUV will be timed at a lull in Bentley’s product cycle. That should place it somewhere around 2014 or 2015. Durheimer has no doubt about success for the new SUV, given the sales history of other luxury SUVs. If we were the kind to bet, we’d definitely place ours on it being a smashing success.

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Bentley unveiled the new Continental GT a little over a year ago. Evolutionary in design, one of the biggest changes to the new car was the availability of a V-8 engine (which has yet to go on sale).

For the most part, the redesigned stayed pretty similar original Continental GT, which was introduced in 2003. We think the previous Continental GT still looks pretty fresh, and one well-heeled customer apparently agrees. This customer commissioned a version of the previous generation Continental from Imperium, a high-end luxury vehicle customization specialist based in the United Kingdom.

Imperium offers an interesting process; each vehicle is unique, and is developed over time in concert with the customer who gets to choose and modify various styling proposals.

The Imperium-designed Continental GT isn’t radical with its styling changes, and they mostly focus on a high-end carbon fiber aerodynamics package. Up front there is a new, more aggressive fascia with vertical LED lighting. It includes ventilation inlets ahead of the front tires. The rear of the car includes a new diffuser, gigantic rear exhaust outlets and a small lip spoiler on the rear lid.

New one-off forged alloy wheels in a dark matte black finish round off the look. Imperium offers the ability for customers to specify the exact design, color and finish of the wheels on their car. Overall, we really like the changes – the Imperium Continental GT is far more aggressive and a nice update to the car’s look.

Details like the LED front lights and rear exhaust pipes help to offer a fresh, modern appeal. All the bodywork components were manufactured in the UK by Imperium. No word on the price of these modifications, but they probably cost a pretty penny. Imperium doesn’t have a standard pricing list like most tuners and aftermarket companies – each vehicle (and price tag) is unique to the customer commissioning it.

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Bentley’s Continental GT is one our favorite cars. Amazing in every way pretty much sums it up. That view carries through from the original model that launched in 2003 to the redesign that Bentley introduced last September.

It was almost hard to imagine the Continental GT being updated in a big way – it still seemed pretty fresh. Bentley seemed to agree with that for the most part too given its evolutionary, play-it-safe redesign. That kind of refresh is exactly what the doctor ordered.

The Continental series has been incredibly successful for Bentley, helping to greatly increase sales for the brand since its introduction. Bentley has only recently turned its attention to the upper end of the market with the Mulsanne.

Rolls-Royce has yet to field a direct competitor to the Continental GT, but with the Silver Ghost it has launched a salvo against the Flying Spur. We’re expecting a Rolls-Royce Continental GT-competitor to arrive based on the Silver Ghost’s platform soon enough.

While the Continental GT was introduced in 2003, other models in the lineup followed a bit later, such as the Flying Spur in 2005 and the GTC convertible in 2006. Quite a gap between the coupe and ensuing models, isn’t it? Such is the strategy for automotive manufacturers, especially in the upper strata of the market where models have a longer shelf life.

This time around though, the GTC convertible appears to be going first. Car and Driver says to expect the GTC to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, just one year after the coupe’s introduction. This is much better than the three-year wait time for the convertible last generation. Now lets see how long the redesigned Flying Spur sedan takes to launch!

One of the biggest changes for the Continental lineup this time around is the addition of a V-8 powered model. This will lower the price of entry a bit for Continental buyers, as well as offering something for those looking for something less powerful. It should help improve fuel economy numbers for Bentley as well. The V-8 model has yet to launch.

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In 2009, for the first time China surpassed the United States as the world’s largest automobile market. The change continued in 2010 and looks to remain in place for 2011. The economic crisis in the U.S accelerated the trend but, with 1.3 billion people and an increasingly wealthy populace, the change was inevitable.

The change is showing up in the upper ends of the automotive industry as well. Manufacturers are lavishing attention on China with new luxury sedans, extended wheelbase models and changes in their business plans.

It was recently reported that Maserati is crafting a business plan tailored for future growth in the country. With this as a backdrop, Bentley has just announced its Q1 sales, and China has taken the second position for the first time.

“Our Chinese customers, like the rest of the world, value Bentley’s history and our emphasis on the finest luxury, craftsmanship and automotive excellence. Although China has traditionally been a market for four-door cars such as the Mulsanne and the Continental Flying Spur, there is growing interest in the excitement, adrenalin and sheer fun of driving high performance sports car,” says Alasdair Stewart, Bentley’s board member for sales and marketing.

With the United Kingdom as Bentley’s home market, it has consistently come in as the brand’s second largest. Record breaking sales in China have changed this however. In 2010, Bentley sold nearly 1,000 cars, a figure double 2009′s tally.

For the first quarter of 2011, Chinese sales have checked in at a highly impressive 396 cars, up 66 percent over last year’s record breaking levels. And, with the new Continental GT hitting dealers and a Flying Spur sedan soon to follow, Bentley’s record-breaking pace in China looks set to continue.

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Between 1924 to 1930, automaker Bentley won 5 of 7 runnings of the 24 hour of Le Mans race. An early auto racing dynasty, the company founded by W.O. Bentley was sold in its infancy to Rolls-Royce. Under the uber-luxury carmaker’s reign, Bentley’s motorsport involvement immediately dwindled as Rolls-Royce was more focused in maintaining their acquired brand as a lower-lined vehicle. Since Volkswagen took over the ultra-luxury Bentley brand, the British marque’s has been reminding the world that their company once represented high-performance motoring. In 2002, Volkswagen lent Bentley the race-proven powertrain from the Audi R8 race car in creating the EXP Speed 8 prototype sports car. For the first time in 73 years, Bentley returned to victory at the 24 hour of Le Mans allowing the luxury car make to realign with motorsport greatness.

Completely reshaping their luxury car line-up for the streets, the lead performance example of the new Bentley was the Continental GT introduced in 2003. Continuing on Bentley’s newly-re-established thirst for competition, finding previously unobtainable speeds on the frozen Baltic Sea off the coast of Finland proved too tempting for a Continental GT in 2007. Setting a world ice speed record at 199.83 miles per hour that year, Bentley returned aspiring to break their own benchmark in early winter of this year. Recruiting the skills of multiple time world rally car champion Juha Kankkunen, the 2011 edition of the ice speed record was undertaken by a specially modified Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible. Storming to new 205.48 miles per hour record, Bentley has introduced their grand celebration of their accomplishment.

The limited edition Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR (Ice Speed Record) lives up to the pre-release boasting Bentley Chairman Wolfgang Durheimer uttered shortly after the successful world record attempt. Set apart from other Continental Supersport models, the Convertible ISR version body shell will be coated with one of three exclusive paint shades. These colours have been selected by Bentley to work handsomely with a Dark Grey Metallic soft-top roof. 20-inch Supersport wheels are included within Pirelli ultra high performance tires.

For some shocking attitude, ISR Mulliner design package provides an intense red exterior detail. A no charge option buyers of this Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible, “Supersport ISR” graphics along the lower door similar in style to treatment exercised on top performance versions of Porsche sports cars. The appearance package also adds red detailing on the 10-spoke wheels giving the Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR more definition from its stablemates. For customers, the Bentley exterior touches of the Mulliner design package is the perfect way to individualize at the country club or millionaire gatherings as part of the wealthy elite while still casting a fun, reckless personality.

In line with every Bentley, some of the best craftsmanship in the auto industry would surround drivers and passengers inside the Continental Supersport Convertible ISR edition. Leather hide seats for four as well as diamond-quilted Alcantara door panels and seat facings are high-grade premium touches the Ice Speed Record Continental Supersport uses to flatter occupants. A distinct red accent adorns the seats, doors, steering wheel along with the precision movement Breitling clock in the dashboard. Carbon fiber trim is also added to the Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR interior given a charming red hue. An 8-inch touchscreen navigated infotainment system is coupled with DVD player and a 30-gigabyte on-board hard drive.

More than simply a well-optioned appearance package to commemorate a feat of a speed record-setting car, Bentley has placed the same performance-based engineering in prepping the street-going Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR. Providing all-wheel drive propulsion, the Continental Supersport Convertible ISR launches are equally as controlled as stopping. Eight-piston brake calipers press down on carbon-ceramic brake discs. High performing, the Bentley’s braking package is also lightweight.

Powered by a 6-liter, twin-turbocharged W12 engine, the Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR delivers the British brand to new heights in performance. Generating 631 horsepower and 590 pounds-feet of torque, revised air ducts, turbo intercooler and exhaust is found on-board this most powerful Bentley. A 10 horsepower jump from the standard Continental Supersport, the added output compliments this ISR as a total high-performance package. Like other Bentley products, the 6-liter W12 is Flexfuel capable for E85 fuel blends.

Through Bentley’s Quickshift 6-speed automatic transmission, the Continental Supersport Convertible ISR’s combination of 631 horsepower and all-wheel drive pushes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.8 seconds. This equates to an improvement of 0.4 seconds compared to a standard convertible version of the Continental Supersport. Deeper in the power range, the run to 100 miles per hour takes a total of 9.5 seconds. Top speed was no announced for the ISR edition but expect at least 202 miles per hour.

As a limited number of only 100 Bentley Continental Supersport Convertible ISR editions prepare to be dispatched to celebrate their feat, this honour has already been eclipsed. An Audi RS6, a fellow Volkswagen product, overtook the Bentley Continental Supersport’s record. This could be viewed as payback for Audi’s overall winning streak at Le Mans being broken due to VW Group’s dedication to the Bentley EXP Speed 8. While an Audi stole the speed record, the Bentley Continental Supersport ISR enthusiastically heats up the soul of British luxury brand.

Information and photo source: Bentley Motors

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“You can’t always get what you want.” Those lyrics uttered in a famous Rolling Stones song has captured the reality for many of us in a work-a-day lives. However, it’s hard to dismiss the fact the Rolling Stones enjoy a life where fewer obstacles exist between specific wants. Exotic cars and trucks is one of those desirable status symbols allowing the world to see ourselves at personal bests. While such a vehicle may be out of reach to our daily routine, how about an opportunity for indulge yourself in the lifestyle for a weekend or vacation period? Several major and dedicated rental car companies can provide an exotic vehicle array turning motoring fantasy into a temporary reality.

Offering vehicles well beyond the Chevrolet Malibu or Ford Fusion most rental car customers would satisfied driving as solid transportation, rental agencies operating in tourist cities such as Las Vegas, Miami and Dubai provides a driving experience that’s truly surreal. Imagine piloting a Ferrari 360 Spider up and down the Las Vegas strip or a Maserati Gran Turismo along Ocean Drive. Too quickly, a driver will forget the stunning locale as they are lured by the feel of pulsating of finely-crafted horsepower, the handling translated through the imported steering wheel and a roaring engine sound. There is even a chance a passenger (friend or spouse) will be forgotten through this dream come true moment.

Realizing this dream drive opportunity, the main difference between renting an exotic ride compared to a run-of-the-mill rental car is price. For instance, the before-mentioned Ferrari 360 Spider in Las Vegas is advertised for daily rental at $1,050. If the single-day rental fee is a little too high for the 3.9-second 0 to 60 mile per hour Italian-bred convertible, a 5-hour period with the Ferrari 360 Spider could be bought for $750. If newer vehicles do not full an individual’s automotive fantasy realm, maybe a classic car could be the desired wish fulfillment. For $350, a 225-inch long 1959 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible is a taste of old Vegas during a future visit.

With rental opportunities throughout the world, exotic automobile rental agency Elite Rent A Car France gives an American in Paris to taste the German flavour of Mercedes-Benz. For the equivalent of $1,760 in US money, the chance encounter with a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is offered for a single day. A unique way to observe two cultures of exotic car construction and international regions, one could drive a Bentley Continental GTC through Munich, Germany or a Lamborghini into the country-wide outside of London. Perhaps even better is matching the car and country for an enriching lesson on automotive culture.

Giving you a sense of driving passion, its sobering to keep in mind classic and exotic car rentals do feature some generally stricter rules than typical automobile rentals. Vehicles will need to be selected ahead of time by at least 3 days (pending if a car is available). Secondly, drivers under 25 are often restricted from piloting these machines without exceptions. Thirdly, some rental agencies may require a sizable deposit or booking fee which is non-refundable if canceled.

Once ready to start your driving adventure if for a few hours or longer, most rental car agencies will familiarize the first-time driver with a vehicle. Important since you would not want to spend much of your valuable experience clueless to rising a convertible top or how to use the navigational system. Being a situation where a exotic car is entrusted to you, it is highly recommended more than ever that insurance is taken out on the vehicle. The last way an individual would want their vacation to end is to discover the price of a replacement Ferrari side view mirror or the price to rid scratches from a Chevrolet Corvette front bumper.

Whether its a car rental Los Angeles, car rental Miami or even a car rental Dubai, a travel adventure is enhanced with the right set of wheels.

Information Source: Dream Car Rentals, Drivetravel.com
Photo Source: Chris Nagy

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The new Bentley Continental GT was introduced last year and is set to go on sale this year. The British brand, under the ownership of Volkswagen, has been kept busy introducing the new GT as well as the range-topping Mulsanne.

To help promote a new performance model, the company has sponsored a record-breaking run for the world land speed speed record on ice. Over the course of its long history, Bentley has been no stranger to record-setting.

Bentley has held the land ice record since 2007, when it was set at 199.83 mph by Juha Kankkunen, four-time World Rally Champion. Prior to 2007′s run, the record was set in 1995, when a Bugatti EB110 Supersport reached 184 mph.

There is something to be said for breaking your own record, and that is exactly what Juha Kankkunen and his team accomplished. To do so, they returned to the coast of Finland to attempt another run on the frozen Baltic Sea.

The last record was set in a Continental GT, and the car of choice this time was the more-powerful Continental Supersports Convertible. Running on E85, Kankkunen and the Continental set a new record at 205.48 mph.

The logistics for the run are no easy task, with temperatures 30 degrees below zero, and the possibility of sudden blizzards and cross-winds out on what is usually open sea 2 1/2 miles off of Finland.

Bentley engineers helped scout out the exact location, which was 1000 meters long (about .6 of a mile). The Finland Traffic Police was on hand to certify the speed, as well as a representative from The Guinness Book of Records, who based the speed on an average of two runs in opposite directions.

The car’s modifications included aerodynamics tweaks like front and rear spoilers, a fully-welded heavy-duty safety roll-cage, Pirelli winter tires and a bumper-mounted parachute in case of an emergency.

Wolfgang Durheimer, Bentley’s new Chairman and Chief Executive, commented saying: “The ice speed record is an amazing feat by Juha Kankkunen, whose skill and courage in extreme conditions truly make him one of the modern-day Bentley Boys. We will be celebrating this achievement with a very special ‘extreme’ Bentley, which will be the most powerful model ever to bear the famed Winged B emblem.”

Well there you have it – Bentley will be debuting a limited edition model on March 1st that promises to be the “most extreme Bentley ever made.” The new car will be limited to just 100 examples.

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2. Bentley Continental Supersports Unveiled
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So the exotic ride of your dreams is unlikely to be awaiting you in the new year? The ultra-elite stimulant of a six or even now seven-digit automobile is untouchable for many motorist taste buds to ever comprehend. While those in the possession of an extravagant automobile needs little assistance in advertising their status, automakers routinely license their brands to merchandisers in order to supply customers seeking an extension to their beloved premium vehicle.

Diecast, pens and clothing are common examples of lifestyle items with more tailored items such as jewelry or high-quality leather jackets available. Existing as the peak of automotive licensing, timepieces are a leading accessory that often mirrors the luxury and exoticness of its four wheel counterpart. From some of the most lavish car builders, a multitude of wrist watches can be found all by itself on the luxury scale.

Aston Martin and Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX2 Transponder Watches

Price: $24,400

With Aston Martin being so closely linked fiction superspy James Bond, it would only be appropriate for their official timekeeping piece incorporates some truly unique features. Being associated with the British luxury sports car builder, the high-quality mechanical watch offers keyless entry controls. Able to lock and unlock doors by a push of a watch button, the AMVOX2 Transponder watch is catered to the DBS, DB9 and the Rapide models. Each vehicle features an unique-looking Jaeger-Coultre AMVOX2 Transponder watch created with rich materials and visible movement.

Spyker Timepieces

Price: $9,750 to $30,500

Until recently, Spyker Cars has been one of the lesser known supercar producers in the world. Thanks to the high-profile acquisition of Saab, the Spyker name is starting to register as a noted figure within the auto industry. Gaining in reputation, Spyker has partnered with Thierry Chaunu of Expression D’Artistes International S.A to create some ultra-exclusive wrist watches to reflect their desired profile. Limited to a run of 1,000 examples each, a polished steel and a matt black titanium watch goes to extended lengths in duplicating the dash gauges of their C8 and C12 Supercar. Spyker Timepieces also sells a 18k Gold and Rose Gold finish model at a most premium price and in very limited release of 250 a piece.

Infiniti Bell and Ross BR03-92 Instrument Phantom Watch

Price: £2,809.97 ($4,331.35)

Designed with an ultra-modern look, a rare 100 examples of the Infiniti Bell and Ross BR03-92 Instrument Phantom watch went on sale June 1, 2010 in Europe. A black carbon powder finish coating the 42mm casing of the BR03-92 watch has drawn influence from the Limited Edition trim of the Infiniti FX crossover vehicle’s exterior. Each BR03-02 Instrument Phantom watch is individually-numbered.

Ferrari Lap Time Chronograph

Price: $525.36

Italian sports car builder Ferrari has always possessed a knack for stirring passion within their legion of fans. Benefiting form the wide population of Ferrari followers who own or want to own one of their superior supercars, merchandising the iconic badge has promoted a highly-visible presence. Among the collection of approved items is the Ferrari Lap Time Chronograph timepiece. Within the combined analog/digital face, a choice of three colours frames the printed numbers from digital display. Black and yellow will likely play a backseat to red for many true Ferrari fans. Functions for the Ferrari Lap Time Chronograph includes a timer, alarm and three time zone listing.

Breitling for Bentley GMT British Racing Chronograph

Price: Est. £7,500 ($11,560.66)

The Breitling for Bentley GMT British Racing Chronograph is created as a commemoration of the new Continental GT fittingly in a rare, unique sport-style. Encased in steel construction, this specific limited edition timepiece’s analog display is framed with British Racing Green and 38 jewels. Worn with either a black or British Racing Green wrist band, the Breitling for Bentley GMT British Racing Chronograph relates faithfully the high-class engineering that Bentley places in their famed vehicles. Featuring COSC certified Brietling Calibre 47B movement, this self-winding wrist watch features the simple large face with 3 totalizers indicating 6-hour, 15-minute and 30-second times. With only 1,000 examples of this Brietling for Bentley timepiece set to be issued worldwide, pure luxury will be kept to a select few individuals.

Mercedes-Benz Tourneau Black Wrist Watch

Price: $170.00

Very guarded with the proper usage of their circular-framed tri-star badge, Mercedes-Benz does maintain a steady and assorted lineup of approved products. A stainless steel timepiece, the Mercedes-Benz official wrist watch produced by jewelry and fine accessory company Tourneau Black sports a simple, classic design. A single face is accented by small representation of the Mercedes-Benz logo. Survivable of up to 10 atmospheres of pressure, the Mercedes-Benz Tourneau Black watch is water resistant to 100 meters.

Tag Heuer SLR Automatic Chronograph

Price: Est. $3,000-4,500

While the finely-crafted watch from Tourneau Black is an excellent personal accessory to advertise fondness of the Stuttgart automaker, Mercedes-Benz is also associated with Swiss timepiece maker Tag Heuer. Made possible by Tag Heuer being a partnered with the McLaren Formula 1 and street car companies, the SLR Automatic Chronograph pays tribute to the now-discontinued Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren supercar. An all-steel automatic chronograph, this watch has black, white and red details contained within the face shielded behind a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Instead of the typical circular counters, smaller dial semi-circular readouts resemble a vehicle’s dash panel.

Now, thanks to this recent listing of timepiece accessories relating to major premium automotive brands, I must apologize if I put the dream car a little further from your reality. However, there is always the promises for what riches the new year can bring.

Information and photo source: Mercedes Benz, Tag Heuer, Breitling for Bentley, Ferrari North America and Newspress UK

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Almost 13 years passing since Volkswagen overtook control of the British luxury car name Bentley, the impulse-buying multimillionaires and various jet-setters could care less about the vehicle of 10 years ago. Interested in only the hottest machine to fuel jealousy within others, it is the goal for ultra-luxury brands to grandly introduce their customers to only the best of materials, ride and most recently on-board electronics. When Bentley was undertaken by VW, the brand remained in the same, tired shell of Rolls-Royce products. The Bentley Continental GT was one of the first vehicles to capitally wear the ‘B’ badge in an expression for unparalleled old world lavishness realizing modern technologies. Through its Crewe, England design and development center, Bentley strides to a new zenith of two-door personal luxury in the heavily-revised Bentley Continental GT for 2011.

The overall exterior has been carefully retouched on the 2011 Bentley Continental GT with a subtle change to the grille matrix and some Bentley Mulsanne-like rear details updating the coupe’s look. The new Continental GT’s headlamps have also been treated to an extra dress-up with a “jewel-like” reflector design as well as LED daytime-running lighting casts an elegant appearance at any point of the day.

Without dramatically reshaping the Continental GT’s look with the new car, some of Bentley best new exterior features might go unknown but are significant engineering accomplishments. With front-end components and the trunk lid produced through Aluminum Super Forming, this manufacturing procedure allows shapes to be easily obtained. Bentley does boast a 0.33 drag coefficient as well as a more aerodynamically stable travel with their 2011 revisions. Riding on standard 20-inch alloy wheels, optional wheel sizes in the 21-inch variety can also be mounted to the Continental GT.

With the Speed and Supersport editions taking at least one year off, Bentley admirers will appreciate a power boost in the 6-liter twin-turbo W-12 powerplant. Adding 15 horsepower for the 2011 model year, the Bentley Continental GT has a royal brigade of 567 steeds on tap along with 516 pounds-feet of torque. Providing 0-60 mile per hour run times in 4.4 seconds, the Bentley Continental GT is also factory certified for a top speed up to 198 miles per hour. The 6-speed automatic transmission with Quickshift is refined for quicker gear transfers. Running on premium gasoline, the Continental GT’s 6-liter W12 powerplant can also burn E85 blended fuels (being one of the more expensive production vehicles to be E85 compatible).

As the new Continental GT is not likely to make much of an improvement over the 10 city, 17 highway of its 2010 counterpart, Bentley’s answer for more reasonable fuel consumption comes at the end of 2011. The Bentley Continental GT will be introduced with a smaller 4-liter V-8 engine which is currently under final development.

A newly-designed interior completes the 2011 Bentley Continental GT revitalized entrance into the new model year with an assortment of soft leathers, wood veneers and metals splendidly organized. As with previous Bentley, the installation of interior pieces are given a special duty of care with human interaction which includes the sewing of the leather seats. Produced by Bentley, the new Continental GT adds a new touchscreen interface which combines with a 30 gigabyte Infotainment system. Offering navigational information and Google Maps compatibility, the hard-drive leaves as much as 15 gigabytes available for storing music. The 11-speaker Naim for Bentley system expelling the tunes with crispness providing a fully-romantic feeling inside of the new Continental GT.

Saving 143 pounds of weight over the previous Continental GT, Bentley’s new grand tourer is still an over 5,300 pound indulgence in super-premium motoring. Pound for pound, the new Bentley Continental GT will be the newest object to be admired by many but afforded by few.

Information and photo source: Bentley via Newspress.co.uk

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The exclusive golf course grounds of Pebble Beach are opened up to allow 4,000-6,000 pound classic and future classic automobiles to weigh on 18th fairway of the carefully-manicured playing field. The 2010 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance celebrates the automobile on the third August Sunday under the California sunlight. Uniting 175 of the most prestigious antique vehicles from around the world since 1960, this year’s event again gave the crowd a feast of automotive glamour.

With show proceeding at Pebble Beach running from the Wednesday prior to the Concours d’Elegance award presentation, the days consists of a classic car parade called the Tour d’Elegance, an automotive collectible show and a car auction. Through the five days, this is the one time of the year to experience a near non-stop bombardment of 60 to 80 year metal and chrome. As well as showing off nostalgia, an exciting look into some vehicles of the near future was provided by Infiniti including a look at their new Infiniti Performance Line.

Included in this year’s display docket were commemorations to several automotive anniversaries. The 75th year of Jaguar as well as the 100th year of the Alfa Romeo nameplate received honours. In the celebration of the Alfa Romeo centennial several rare, living examples of the Italian company’s past were brought to Pebble Beach. One such example of these masterpieces was the 1938 Gran Premio Tipo 158 “Alfetta” race car developed by than Alfa Romeo supporter Enzo Ferrari.

Speaking about Ferrari, one of their creations was also given special credit in the 2010 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Recognizing the 50 anniversary of the Ferrari 250 GT SWB Berlinetta, a special class award was gifted to the best example presented in the show. Other commemorative class awards given out through this year’s show also included one for the best vintage Indy car honouring the 100th year of the Indianapolis 500 and one for the best prewar American motorcycle.

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance traditionally started as a showcase for pre-World War 2 motoring excellence, 1920s Duesenberg and 1930 Bugatti cars were present attractions. Since then, the car show and event has initiated many steps to incorporate contemporary classics. In 1997, the Pebble Beach grounds were opened up to vintage-based hot rods providing those vehicles their own category to be judged. In this year’s Pebble Beach show, the hot rod trophy went to the 1950 Eddie Miller Streamliner.

For overall Best in Show honours in 2010, the award nominees consisted of four vehicles. With the competition coming down to a 1929 Bentley Speed Six Park Ward Open Two Seater, 1930 Duesenberg J Graber Cabriolet, 1933 Delage D8S De Villars Roadster and a 1939 Delage D8 120 Henri Chapron Cabriolet, the 1933 Delage Roadster took the top trophy.

While this mass celebration of automotive history at Pebble Beach is opening up to the multiple faucets of motoring tastes, the event seems to have an easier time attracting vehicles than the general automotive admiring crowd. A downside for the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a price of admission starting at $150, when purchased in advance of the show. With families typically attending auto shows, the Concours ticket price has certainly averted what could otherwise be a weekend outing. Perhaps on a plus side, adult automotive enthusiasts may not hear parents telling their kids to “look and not touch” on a consist basis. For the higher-rolling car fan, a $500 Club d’Elegance allows you executive privilege. VIP badges, commemorative gifts, buffet meals and even special restroom areas are provided to Club d’Elegance members. In respect to the high admission price, it should be noted that the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance has contributed over $13 million dollars to their affiliated charities benefiting the United Way as well as the Boys and Girls Club.

With the main judging of the 2010 Pebble Beach Concours d”Elegance wrapped, the cars return to their respected temperature-controlled garages around the world.

Information Credit: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Photo Credit: Copyright © 2010 by Kimball Studios/Courtesy of Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

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So there you are, driving home to your expansive, yet somehow fitting, estate on 10 Mammon Lane, and you think to yourself, “Self, I need a new car. A ride that says ‘Look at how filthy rich I am!’ What kind of car is that?”

The answer is easy: The new for 2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible

The newest addition to the Continental model range features a very healthy 621-horsepower, from a twin-turbocharged W12 engine that is capable of running on both gasoline and E85 bioethanol, making it both powerful and environmentally conscious. Not to mention helping with the overall snootiness factor, and your own sense of self worth.

Price? Starting from a mere $280,400, the new four-seat Supersports Convertible arrives at Bentley retailers this summer. Its interior “signifies a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley luxury. Satin-finished carbon fiber, Alcantara and ‘Soft Grip’ leather create a unique ambiance with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.”

“The new Supersports Convertible is the most powerful drop-top we’ve ever produced. This extreme power combines with pioneering FlexFuel technology, now shared with all Continental models, reflecting Bentley’s ongoing commitment to more environmental motoring,” said Christophe Georges, President & Chief Operating Officer for Bentley Motors, Inc.

“The ‘extreme’ Bentley stable now has a new occupant in the form of the Supersports Convertible,” said Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering. “It is a car every bit as purposeful and potent as the Coupé but with the panache of roof-down motoring.”

The New Continental Supersports Convertible is the fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever, thanks to that 6-liter W12 engine. With the twin-turbocharger up on full boil, the engine produces 621bhp at 6,000 rev/min and 590lb ft of torque at 2,000-4,500 rev/min. Good enough to get you from 0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds and from 0 -100mph in 9.6 seconds. Top speed? A not too shabby 202mph.

There is a revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50 percent and enables double downshifts. And the New Continental Supersports Convertible’s all wheel drive system has a new 40/60 rear-biased torque split for reduced understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’

There is also a retuned Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar benefit body control, steering response, turn-in and balance.

There are new, lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 22 lbs weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling. The wheels come wrapped in 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tires. There are also standard carbon-ceramic brakes provide fade-free braking and contribute a 44 lb reduction in rotating and unsprung mass from the front axle

Photos: Bentley

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Eighteen students from London’s Royal College of Art have teamed up with luxury car maker Bentley to create design concepts for an upcoming Bentley coupe. Four of the student’s designs were chosen by Head of Exterior Design Raul Pires to move their designs into further development with Pires and his team. Two of those future designers will be invited to join the company for a six month secondment in the Bentley design studio.

The four finalists are Bora Kim, David Seesing, Marten Wallgren and Mikka Heikkinen. Pires said of the group, “These four finalists have captured the essence of our brand, recognising what makes a Bentley instantly recognisable on the road. Just as importantly, they’ve embraced Exa’s leading-edge technology and grasped that excellent design should always seek to enhance a car’s handling and performance, as well as optimising its environmental credentials.”

Check out the designs:

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