Bentley Arnage Drophead

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What is it?

Bentley Arnage Drophead Coupe Concept

What's special about it?

"Special" isn't exactly the adjective that came to mind when we first saw this Bentley. Big? Yes. Expensive? Of course. But special? That might be pushing it. Although billed as an all-new design concept, one glance will tell you that it's nothing more than a refreshed version of the Azure convertible that bowed out of the lineup two years ago. Like the recently updated Arnage sedan, the Drophead concept wears a more modern face and subtle styling upgrades such as LED taillights and 19-inch chrome wheels.

Under the hood rests the same 6.75-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the Arnage. Good for 450 horsepower, Bentley claims that it can propel the big drop top to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds. Not bad for an 18-footer. The underlying suspension is Arnage spec as well, but the chassis underwent additional reinforcement to assure adequate stiffness with the top down.

Like all Bentleys, the Drophead's interior is swathed in the generous sheets of the finest leathers contrasted with plenty of hand-crafted Burr Oak trim. Interior dimensions were expanded in back affording rear passengers 20-percent more room than the Azure. A pop-up roll bar was also fitted for passenger protection in the event of a rollover.

What's Edmunds Take?

When Bentley first unveiled its Continental GT coupe, its bold styling and uncompromising performance were completely unexpected and overwhelmingly applauded. Unlike the GT, however, the Drophead concept breaks no new ground in either its styling or technology. Traditionalists may applaud the restraint, but if Bentley wants to capitalize on its recent brand resurgence it's going to need more daring concepts than this. — Ed Hellwig