We all remember how in 1998 the owners of the Vickers company 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, which amounted to 340 million pounds, was killed by businessmen from Volkswagen AG, who offered a little more - 430 million pounds. It seems that the British should be happy, but the engineering Rolls-Royce Group plc (manufacture of equipment for aviation, ships and energy equipment) decided that the rights to use brand and the Rolls-Royce logo will still go to the "Bavarian motors" with which the company has long had a 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 gable of an ancient temple, without a logo and a name, it was not able to produce Rolls-Royce cars. Over the past 15 years, Bentley has proven how successful it is. ... If in 1998 the company managed to find buyers for only 414 limousines, then in 2013 there were more than 10,000 of them (before that the sales record was in 2007 - 10,014 units). Thus, the increase over the 2012 indicator was 19%. 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 vehicles on the planet - an increase by 2012 of about 2%. Income is not mentioned at all. For the first time, the mark of 1000 cars was exceeded relatively recently, in 2007. Bentley's commercial success has not gone unnoticed among its competitors. Rolls-Roys Motor Cars CEO Thorsten Müller-Otwos compares his brand to "a jewel from the British royal treasury." Similarly, they look at their "daughter" in Bavaria. “This brand is a jewel for the concern. We are very pleased with the income, ”says a BMW spokesman. Businessmen from Munich consider the comparison of Rolls-Roys with Bentley to be incorrect, since for them the Rolls is an order of magnitude higher in class. The Bavarians always voice this when critics point to the success of their main counterpart. “In comparison with the same Phantom, any Bentley car is almost a mass product,” BMW retorts. “Rolls-Roys buyers appreciate the high cost of the vehicle and the low number of units produced. All this is a kind of proof of our exclusivity, our clients do not want to see similar cars on every corner. " Wealthy buyers from the USA, China and the Middle East are not stingy to shell out 400,000 euros for a limousine. And, according to Mr. Müller-Otvos, the company has no intention of going down in price positioning. However, Stefan Brazel, an autoexpert at a special higher education institution of economics in Bergisch Gladbach, considers these words of a Rolls-Roys top manager to be a trivial excuse. In his opinion, it is necessary not only to follow the traditions, but also to improve the products of a respected brand. According to experts, Volkswagen has bypassed the rival in the matter of improvement. With its Continental GT bentley bridged the gap that existed between the business limousines of German manufacturers and the luxury segment. The brand has created an independent family, one step below the Arnage. Rolls-Roys tried to fight 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 the company would launch its own SUV in 2016. According to rumors, several buyers have already left pre-orders for the new product. A year later, a hybrid version will hit the market aimed at wealthy customers in the US and China. From Rolls, there is little such information - only the 102 EX electric limousine, which was presented back in 2011, as well as the Phantom with a 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 officer of BMW, cannot be considered a loser. In the Luxury segment, there are other challenges and criteria in which the success of the company should be measured and, above all, the traditions that exist independently of the fashion cycles. Independent experts urge to evaluate the success of the company not only and not so much by the operational profit that both luxury brands receive. In their opinion, operating profit only serves to calm the shareholders and in order not to scare away the buyer. There is more to this whole story ...
At first glance, all of 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 semi-antique interior with highly efficient chassis and drivetrains. The Mercedes S600 looks like a dressed up S300. However, in its exquisite detailing, a summary of the Technology Bible can be seen. The Rolls-Royce Ghost S2 combines a recognizable character that is trying to impress with a talent full of ideas. But the trio has one quality in common - fuel gauges, synchronously leading to suicide - which once again proves that weight, resistance and a heavy right leg are the sworn enemies of economy.
Despite a recent update, Bentley remains the oldest car he knows. The compactness of the package belies the Spur's generous 5299mm length. A stiffer suspension was installed to ensure a low ride and speed, and the 2.4 tonne weight suggests that the body is still made from Sheffield steel. The driver's seat is stiff, shapeless and insufficiently adjustable, and the beautifully finished (deliberately old-fashioned) interior lacks modern conveniences such as shift paddles, driver assistance systems and an advanced infotainment system. This old car is charming and interesting in its own way. For a lower price, the S600 offers richer equipment, an infinitely soft ride and an additional half meter of cabin space. But you still have to look for a long and luxurious car that will 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 grounded, the car feels confident even when overcoming aquaplaning areas, as well as wide expansion joints and ribbed surfaces. Anyone at the ugly two-spoke steering wheel will be helped by: customizable cruise control with automatic braking, automatic lane guidance, a night vision camera and an impressive electronic control unit that scans the road surface with three cameras and using springs and adjustable shock absorbers smooth out irregularities.
At the same length as a Bentley, the S600 is huge inside and its seats are very comfortable. Parking is fully automatic if you wish. The heating system will heat up the surface of the door panels and center console when needed, while the intelligent lighting system will outshine its rivals in variety, range and sensitivity. Despite the fact that the Mercedes is incredibly comfortable and safe, it is also attractive.
It's unexpected to hear similar praise addressed to the Ghost S2. The optional Dynamic Driving Package system makes a big difference. good result by car with a 19-inch winter tires... The thick-rimmed steering response, improved sway bars, controlled air suspension and retuned dampers all add a bit of precision and added stability to the car. The slight lack of composure that caused the early Ghost to frown at high speeds has disappeared - body roll and dive under braking are now better suppressed. Despite all its mass and momentum, the Ghost accelerates more confidently. Another update is the powerful LED headlights with integrated direction indicators. Except for the more comfortable seats, the interior has remained practically unchanged, so here, instead of a tachometer, there is the same useless power reserve gauge.
Can you drive these limousines?
The scenic mountain range that joins the southern edge of Bavaria and the thinnest stretch of Austria pampers visitors with a fork of promising roads. Avoiding highways packed with radars, we drive southwest on a curved Class B road, drive through a couple of small passes, and occasionally drive on dangerous country roads with narrow sections for one car. On all sharp turns and, in addition, steep climbs, the Flying Spur has established itself as the undisputed leader. After all, he is the only one with all-wheel drive. This bonus active safety allows him to be invincible in terms of traction and reliability of wheel adhesion to the road. Add 800 Nm of torque, flavored with a 6.0-liter W12, and it becomes clear why Benz and Rolls have a nightmare with their rear parking lights Bentley. The speed distribution is controlled by an 8-speed automatic transmission gear. It desperately lacks pushbutton controls to handle steep downhill gradients where even a very powerful composite braking system will sizzle with tension in one way or another.
Despite the Dynamic Driving Package, the hour comes when the Rolls prefers to slow down, and that moment comes sooner rather than later. With ESP on, the Ghost started to slow down pretty quickly. Turning it off, however, reveals that you are navigating the Titanic along the upper forks of the Thames. This is tantamount to a tailcoat dressed to compete in a decathlon - there is no point in persuading Rolls to become a ridiculous sports car. While Bentley also claims the term "waftability" (Rolls-Royce's unique sense of light movement), it doesn't fit the Ghost better - as soon as the road starts to narrow and the turns twist, Rolls chooses a smooth ride. The highest torque of 770 Nm was at a low 1500 rpm, which makes you be careful with the steering wheel and throttle in sharp turns. The car even uses a satellite navigation system to avoid unnecessary gear changes. More than the other two, this limousine will reward a relaxed driving style with overall sophistication and luxurious privacy.
Like a W12 housed in a Spur and a 6.6-liter V12 crammed into a Ghost, the 6.0-liter V12 engine that powers the S600 is not entirely new. The three-valve is derived from the original 5.5-liter V12, which was first introduced in the Maybach 57 in 2002. At 530bhp, the twin-turbo engine can't match the 571bhp. the Ghost or the even more muscular Bentley with 625bhp and 830Nm of torque, the relatively light Mercedes is far from being a slacker. To accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h in 4.6 seconds, he overtook his opponent from Goodwood by 0.3 seconds. While the S600 and Ghost speed up to 260 km / h, the third musketeer can go up to 320 km / h under certain circumstances. Speed this high is rarely important, but handling and stability are always the case. And here Benz has to struggle from time to time to keep up. While the S63 AMG is available with 4Matic all-wheel-drive, the comfort-oriented S600 lacks it, so ESP turns on its brains - especially when trying to keep up with the Flying Spur.
Luxury has many facets, and these three giants take most of them with impressiveness. Space? The Mercedes is hard to beat here and that sentiment extends to the rear seats with ample legroom and headroom. Equipment? All the credit goes back to Benz, which won't even charge extra for all these premium amenities. Ergonomics? The victory with the minimum advantage goes to the inspired BMW car from Rolls-Royce, which is custom-made and has an improved version of the iDrive system. The driver's seat in the S600 is fully loaded with touch panels, buttons and rotary controls. However, their maze is difficult to understand, and some of them are questionably useful. Feeling like a holiday? If you like the Teutonic style, welded with excessive technical saturation (automatic buckles, airbag on back seat, air freshener spray, etc.), then choose Mercedes. If you prefer the atmosphere of a gentlemen's club, then a beautifully made and tastefully equipped Bentley will be just right. However, in order to emphasize true presentability and wealth, nothing will overshadow the exciting rear doors Ghost, snazzy theatrical passenger seats and a tasteful yet functional driver's seat.
Could a V12 limousine be economical?
Profitability is definitely not main characteristic in the super league. However, it is foolish to neglect the 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 suffices 15.7 liters, and the most drinking Bentley, which asks for all 18 liters.
It will be more difficult to save money when buying the cars themselves. The cheapest (if it is appropriate to use such a term here) will be the S600, which sells for 197,000 Euros. Bentley costs 214,000 Euros without additional equipment, but when you install big wheels, a panoramic roof, good leather, an entertainment complex and a carbon-ceramic braking system, the figure will easily reach 273,000 euros. Remains Ghost for 303,000 Euros in basic configuration... Expect 400,000 Euros for the dance-vocal piece featured in this review.
To confirm the fact that these 12-cylinder engines occupy the top niche among the most vibration-balanced power units, we put a coin vertically on each motor running on Idling... The coin remained on all three engines. Regardless of the type of car it drives, the W12 engine is the sportiest. It sounds a little rough when torn, hoarse when full load and loud at partial. To meet the expectations, a UK-made engine (which began life more humbly in the VW Phaeton in 2002) needs 6,000 rpm. The power limit comes at 6,200 rpm, just like in a 6.0-liter Mercedes, but that's where the similarities end. Mercedes S600 will deliver maximum power from 4900 to 5300 rpm. Designed and built in Munich specifically for the Ghost, the V12 engine requires 5250 rpm for maximum power. The attached seven-speed transmission runs exceptionally smoothly. The high status is emphasized by the absence of selector paddles on the steering wheel and the choice of the control program. In Benz, you can change gears with your fingertips or lock a program in Dynamic mode. The Spur remains the only contender with an 8-speed gearbox that offers additional gear ratio for better distribution of torque and speed.
We expected light travel, easy gear shifting and normal suspension setup. We got all this, albeit to varying degrees. We were surprised by the overall power of the braking system, which uses large discs, which are enough to cope even with a heavy road train. Equipped with optional carbon-ceramic brake discs, the Bentley (shod in a 21-inch summer tires) effectively extinguishes kinetic energy at a very high speed, as a result, we get dynamic braking without any fading. The 300-kilogram superiority of the S600 pays off in reduced braking distances and response times. Even Rolls-Royce, which focuses more on looks and absolute tranquility, prides itself on being strong and well-balanced. braking system... Just a little pressure on the brake pedal is enough to start the process. Unshakable directional stability is another common virtue of our giants. All three models are virtually immune to crosswinds, bad weather and road surface changes. Sharp turns would not be a problem either, but our 36-cylinder convoy had to slow down dramatically with every sharp turn.
Conclusion
So which luxury car is the best? Who will win? Benz becomes the leader. Undoubtedly, it has the most upscale salon, and it will spoil you with a bunch of unsurpassed devices. This is an exciting high speed cruiser that will save you enough money to buy a seaside cabin.
A werewolf man might fall for a Bentley, a car that's essentially two-in-one: a smart and stylish four-door model, genetically related to the Continental GT Speed, and an adherent of traditional British character and art, which is usually inspired by buyers who find the Jaguar XJR too mundane. ...
However, the oligarch will almost always gravitate towards the keys from the Ghost. Why? Because he wants best car of the best, the most representative and prestigious, perhaps the loudest, giving the proletariat every reason for indignation.
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Want a cool car? Not a problem - you just need to know what to look for. Here are the classic vintage Bentleys and Rolls-Royce models that are selling at surprisingly low prices.
In September last year in London, one lucky man gave $ 1.1 million for a 1955 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback Sports Saloon. Perfect condition, classic smooth body lines and a powerful six-cylinder engine undoubtedly justify the price. But not everyone has that kind of money.
The good news is that you don't have to give up a last shirt to get your hands on the classic Bentley.
A sophisticated buyer can meet the average price - 31 thousand dollars for Arnage and less than 25 thousand for Brooklands, Bloomberg reports citing data from the company Hagerty. A vintage Bentley is not cheap to maintain, and the car itself is unlikely to get much more expensive - but it never gets devalued.
Once behind the wheel, you will feel like the richest person in the world.
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A standard Bentley R Continental (such as this one from 1954) will have a six-digit number on its price tag. Newer Bentleys cost a lot less
“There are quite a few Rolls-Royce and Bentley vehicles available at the lowest price,” said Jonathan Klinger, a spokesman for Hagerty. "For those who know the automotive industry, the name Rolls-Royce or Bentley will tell you everything."
To date, they are “properly” assessed at automotive market, says Klinger.
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2002 Rolls Royce Bentley Arnage
This means that rare models such as the Silver Seraph Rolls-Royce (produced from 1998 to 2002) and the Bentley Arnage (from 1998 to 2009) can be purchased for no more than a Toyota crossover, but at the same time get a car with a unique personality and style.
“An experienced buyer can watch the car market and expect the value of their Arnage to increase within five years,” says Klinger. - Moreover, we are talking about Arnage - over the next two years, it makes sense to follow the fluctuations in its price.
Or, for example, the Rolls-Royce Corniche coupe-convertible, which was produced from 1971 to 1995. The Corniche replaced the Silver Shadow and revolutionized the British auto industry with a V8 engine and self-adjusting suspension.
A silver radiator grille with the obligatory Spirit of Ecstasy figurine on the bonnet, a wide dashboard with polished wood elements, a thin steering wheel, firm yet resilient seats and modern interior technologies (radio, stove, air conditioning) - thanks to the exquisite details Corniche is not only beautiful but also versatile.
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Rolls-royce corniche
Average cost of the first generation Corniche in perfect condition- only 34.3 thousand dollars; if the condition is just acceptable, then the price will not be higher than 25 thousand.
Anthony James, a Los Angeles-based artist, bought a budget 1981 Corniche a few years ago. From the moment of purchase, he drives him every day:
“I bought the Corniche because it stood out among other cars - a truly elegant Briton. Moreover, his functional characteristics do not lag behind. "
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Rolls-Royce Corniche Convertible
There are also disadvantages: servicing a Corniche-level car can be more expensive than the car itself. James, fortunately, has an irreplaceable friend - a reliable mechanic who helps him for a nominal fee, but few are so lucky.
Klinger learned that Los Angeles Bentley dealers are charging $ 35,000 to repair one turbocharger with a new one Continental models... The spare part itself in the online store will cost about 1.5 thousand rubles.
Anyone who wants to become the owner of a modern classic - Rolls-Royce or Bentley - needs to ask the seller detailed history service. Avoid mistakes - do not neglect repairs and do not take a "killed" car if you do not want to resurrect it yourself and are not ready to give half of the kingdom to a mechanic.
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Rolls-royce silver seraph
Most importantly, be patient. The cost of the latest Corniche and Arnage models has increased by about $ 1,000 a year over the past few years, but Hagerty warns that the situation could change at any time and the numbers will start to fall. So it's worth the wait suitable car, and not rush to the first one in an attempt to squeeze the maximum out of the invested funds. These models are not going anywhere. Klinger says:
“If you are looking for a comfortable luxury car, this is the best you can find for little money. These prestigious brands are at the peak of luxury - it has been, is and will always be. "
Prepared by Taya Aryanova
Even before the premiere, the Bentley Bentayga was dubbed the main competitor. 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 subjective. Some people liked the strict style of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, while others liked the neoclassical appearance Bentley Bentayga.
The interior of both SUVs is dominated by leather, wood and aluminum. Larger dimensions, of course, make Rolls-Royce more spacious inside, and its trunk volume is larger - 560 liters versus 430.
Both Bentley and Rolls-Royce have equipment like a virtual instrument panel, head-up display, 360-degree cameras and night vision systems.
Of course, premium SUVs received original accessories. For example, 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 powered by turbocharged 12-cylinder engines (although the Bentayga has a V8 and even a diesel) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 6.0-liter W12 Bentley develops 608 hp. with. and 900 Nm, and the 6.75-liter Rolls-Royce V12 - 570 liters. with. and 850 Nm.
The Bentayga is more powerful and lighter, and therefore can accelerate to 100 km / h in 4.1 seconds and develop 301 km / h. The dynamics of the Cullinan is still unknown (it is expected about 5.5 s to 100 km / h), and maximum speed- 250 km / h.
Both vehicles have adaptive dampers and air suspension with variable ground clearance... The Bentley SUV was also equipped with active anti-roll bars.
The price of Rolls-Royce Cullinan starts at $ 325 thousand, and you can buy a Bentley Bentayga for $ 195 thousand. Of course, the price difference is significant, but in this segment it is not the most important factor.
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Even before the premiere, the Bentley Bentayga was dubbed the main competitor. 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 subjective. Some people liked the strict style of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, while others liked the neoclassical appearance of the Bentley Bentayga.
The interior of both SUVs is dominated by leather, wood and aluminum. Larger dimensions, of course, make Rolls-Royce more spacious inside, and its trunk volume is larger - 560 liters versus 430.
Both Bentley and Rolls-Royce have equipment like a virtual instrument panel, head-up display, 360-degree cameras and night vision systems.
Of course, premium SUVs received original accessories. For example, 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 powered by turbocharged 12-cylinder engines (although the Bentayga has a V8 and even a diesel) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 6.0-liter W12 Bentley develops 608 hp. with. and 900 Nm, and the 6.75-liter Rolls-Royce V12 - 570 liters. with. and 850 Nm.
The Bentayga is more powerful and lighter, and therefore can accelerate to 100 km / h in 4.1 seconds and develop 301 km / h. The dynamics of the Cullinan is still unknown (expected about 5.5 s to 100 km / h), and the maximum speed is 250 km / h.
Both vehicles have adaptive shock absorbers and variable ground clearance air suspension. The Bentley SUV was also equipped with active anti-roll bars.
The price of Rolls-Royce Cullinan starts at $ 325 thousand, and you can buy a Bentley Bentayga for $ 195 thousand. Of course, the price difference is significant, but in this segment it is not the most important factor.
If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl + Enter.
