Bentley Azure

Overview

The Bentley Azure was produced in two generations: the original Turbo R-based convertible from 1995 to 2003, and the revised Arnage-based Azure from 2006 to 2009 — including the Azure T performance variant. Both generations shared the 6.75-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine and a bespoke electrically operated power soft-top designed to maintain the structural rigidity and sound insulation of a grand luxury vehicle despite the absence of a fixed roof.

The Azure was never a high-volume car — fewer than 1,800 examples of the first generation and a limited run of the second generation were built. This rarity, combined with the craftsmanship of a Bentley-built convertible, makes the Azure one of the most distinctive ultra-luxury open-top vehicles ever produced. The Pininfarina-designed body of the first generation and the in-house designed second generation both achieved a proportion and elegance unusual in full-size convertibles.

In Azerbaijan, the Azure appeals to collectors and connoisseurs who want the rare combination of Bentley prestige, open-air motoring, and the 6.75L V8's characterful torque delivery. With production long ended, well-maintained examples are increasingly valuable as the available supply of properly serviced cars diminishes.

Azure in Pictures

Visual references for exterior styling, cabin design, and key details. Images fall back gracefully on load error.

Azure T – Final specification, 2009

Azure – Gen I convertible

Key Specifications

• Engine: 6.75L twin-turbocharged V8 (both generations)
• Gen I power: 385 hp, 737 Nm torque
• Gen II power: 420 hp standard / 450 hp (Azure T)
• Transmission: 4-speed (Gen I) / 6-speed ZF automatic (Gen II)
• Drive: Rear-wheel drive
• Top speed: 249 km/h
• Roof: Electrically operated power soft-top with insulated lining
• Production: Gen I 1,700 units / Gen II limited production
• Interior: Hand-stitched leather, veneered dashboard and door cappings
• Wheelbase: 3,115 mm

Variant Comparison

Competitor Snapshot

Cost-of-Ownership Estimator (Azerbaijan)

• Annual fuel use: 1600 litres
• Annual fuel cost: $1040
• Total yearly estimate: $12040
• Monthly average: $1003

• Power roof mechanism requires specialist lubrication and adjustment — amateur repair can damage the complex folding frame.
• Soft-top fabric should be professionally inspected for UV degradation and waterproofing at least every two years.
• Parts sourcing relies on Bentley heritage supply network and specialist convertible restorers.

Maintenance & Service in Azerbaijan

• Roof mechanism: annual inspection and lubrication of folding frame joints and tension cables.
• Soft-top fabric: inspect for UV damage, stitch integrity, and weatherstripping seal condition.
• Engine oil service at 12-month or 10,000 km intervals — earlier than modern Bentley specifications.
• Check electrical connections throughout the roof system — moisture ingress is common on older examples.
• Inspect chassis and sill areas for corrosion — convertibles are more vulnerable than coupe equivalents.

Used Azure Buying Checklist

• Test power roof through full open and close cycle — check for hesitation or uneven movement.
• Inspect soft-top fabric for tears, staining, rear window clarity, and waterproofing.
• Check all seals when roof is closed — water ingress is a key pre-purchase check.
• Verify engine oil condition and look for signs of turbo oil contamination.
• Test all electronic functions — windows, seats, climate, audio.
• Request full service history and look for specialist convertible maintenance records.
• Inspect chassis and underfloor with a torch for corrosion, especially at sill junctions.

Azure FAQ — Azerbaijan Buyers

Should You Buy the Bentley Azure?

The Azure offers a driving and ownership experience that no longer exists in production form — a full-size, hand-built Bentley convertible with a characterful twin-turbo V8. For buyers who value rarity, heritage, and the pleasure of Bentley open-top motoring, a well-preserved Azure represents an exceptional opportunity in today's market.