The history of the Bentley brand

Bentley is a brand with over a century of history, one that has always remained true to its vision of creating cars that captivate not only with their unrivaled elegance but also with the genuine emotions they evoke behind the wheel. What is the history of the Bentley brand? Since its founding in 1919, Bentley has pushed the boundaries of engineering, becoming a symbol of perfection and power on the road. The brand has made its mark both on the racetrack and among the most discerning luxury enthusiasts. But what makes Bentley not just a brand, but a legend? Let’s uncover the secrets behind this iconic symbol of automotive excellence.

The history of Bentley — how a British luxury icon was born

Bentley Motors was founded in 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley, also known as W.O. Bentley. His vision was to create a car that combined both performance and luxury. Earlier, during World War I, Bentley worked on aircraft engines. The famous Bentley BR1 rotary engine powered British Sopwith Camel fighter planes. After the war, he decided to transfer his knowledge and experience to the automotive market.

The first Bentley car, a 3-litre model with a four-cylinder engine, was unveiled at the London Motor Show in 1919. The car quickly gained recognition for its reliability and outstanding performance.

Le Mans racing successes — the 1920s

In the early 1920s, Bentley became a leader in endurance racing, claiming five victories in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans between 1924 and 1930. It was during this time that the famous group of “Bentley Boys” emerged—wealthy British motoring enthusiasts who became involved in racing, helping to propel the brand’s success.

A shared history that turned into a rivalry — Bentley vs. Rolls-Royce

In 1931, Bentley Motors found itself in serious financial trouble. That’s when Rolls-Royce entered the scene, one of the most prestigious car brands of the era. Rolls-Royce, best known for producing luxury limousines, saw potential in Bentley to complement its own lineup. This is how Bentley became part of the Rolls-Royce group, which at first seemed like a smart move for both brands.

Over the following years, Bentley was seen as the younger sibling of Rolls-Royce, and cars from both brands shared many features, especially in terms of design and technology. Bentley models were often based on the same platforms as Rolls-Royce vehicles, but were marketed as a more sporty and dynamic alternative.

The birth of a rivalry

For many years, Bentley and Rolls-Royce operated under the same umbrella. However, over time, both brands began to develop their own distinct identities. While Bentley and Rolls-Royce cars often looked similar on the outside, Bentley always prioritized superior performance and a sporty character, whereas Rolls-Royce focused on comfort and elegance.

The decisive moment in this relationship came in the 1990s, when Rolls-Royce and Bentley came under the control of new owners, leading to their formal separation. Volkswagen’s acquisition gave Bentley fresh momentum, enabling investments in modern technologies and a return to its roots as a brand of luxurious yet sporty cars. Today, Bentley and Rolls-Royce, despite their shared history, compete as representatives of two different visions of luxury.

Bentley today — luxury, innovation, and tradition

Bentley today is the epitome of absolute luxury, technological perfection, and extraordinary power. The brand, whose history spans over a century, consistently blends tradition with modernity. Bentley tailors its cars to meet the demands of contemporary clients who expect the highest quality, comfort, and advanced technology.

What makes Bentley cars stand out?

Bentley cars combine refined luxury with powerful performance. Every detail, from hand-finished interiors crafted from the finest materials to cutting-edge technology, is meticulously perfected. Bentley is synonymous with comfort, but also with speed—the brand’s engineers constantly strive to achieve the perfect balance between power and driving smoothness.

A distinctive feature of Bentley cars is their personalized approach to every customer. Each model can be configured according to individual preferences, with a wide selection of colors, finishes, and technological options to choose from.

The Future of Bentley — Luxury in the Age of Electrification

Bentley is constantly looking to the future, adapting its range to the evolving demands of the market and technology. The brand has announced that by 2030, its entire lineup will be fully electric, responding to the global drive for sustainability and emissions reduction. Hybrid models are already available, such as the Bentley Bentayga Hybrid, which combine luxury and performance with eco-friendly solutions.

Not every classic car enthusiast is pleased with the direction the brand is heading, especially when it comes to electrification. However, Bentley proves that it’s possible to maintain a luxurious character and sporty performance while adapting to modern environmental demands.