In 2001, the Arnage RL, a long-wheelbase limousine model, was launched.
Available only as a bespoke (“Mulliner”) model, each RL was customised to
the desires of the buyer. The RL, however, was also the first of a new
series of Arnages which would break Bentley from its BMW-rooted past
permanently, as well as presenting a challenge to that company’s attempt to
revive Rolls-Royce sales.
The RL was larger than any contemporary limousine, notably including those
from its former sister company. Wheelbases ranged from 3336 mm (131 in) to
3566 mm (140 in) and even 3844 mm (151 in), the latter two including a 100
mm (3.9 in) increase in the height of the roof. The suspension was retuned
for the added weight, allowing the larger car to still handle well.
Many RL models are ordered with armoured elements, reflecting the car’s
clientelle. In fact, some of the “basic” car’s components were armoured
from the start. But a full B6 package was also available for $243,000.00 to
$300,000.00, offering protection from assault weapons and grenades. The RL
remains in production as of 2006.
Notable, though overlooked on the RL’s introduction, was an entirely
reworked engine. Where the Red Label had merely freshened the Turbo RT’s
engine, the RL featured an entirely reworked version of the old 6.75 L V8.
More than half of the engine’s parts were completely new, with Bosch
Motronic ME7.1.1 engine management replacing the old Zytec system and two
small Garrett T3 turbochargers replacing the single large T4. This new
engine developed 400 hp (298 kW) and 616 ft·lbf (835 N·m), and was said to
be capable of meeting all future emissions requirements.
Bentley Arnage R at the 2006 Salon International de l’Auto
Enlarge
Bentley Arnage R at the 2006 Salon International de l’Auto
In 2002, Bentley updated the Red Label as the series two Arnage R. This
model was launched to contrast the Arnage T, which was developed to be more
sporting. The Arnage R features two Garrett T3 turbochargers, as with the
RL.
The Arnage T, also from 2002, was claimed to be the most powerful roadgoing
Bentley at its launch at the Detroit Motor Show. As with the Arnage R,
there were twin turbochargers, but tuned to develop 450 hp (340 kW) and 645
lbf ft (875 N·m). The Arnage T’s 0–60 mph time is 5.5 s; a top speed of 168
mph (270 km/h) is claimed.
All Arnage R and T models share the same 3116 mm (122.7 in) wheelbase. The
Arnage range was facelifted in 2004, with a front end resembling that of
the new Continental GT.
For the 2007 model year, Garrett turbochargers were replaced with low
inertia Mitsubishi units designed to improve engine response. The engine
was mated to a version of the 6 speed ZF transmission found in the
Continental range.e than the current top-of-the-line 125 kW (170 hp) model.
