Photos by Randall Cordero
Driver's Notebook: Bespoke Bentley
August 3, 2004
All these
neighborhoods are beleaguered by slow-moving tour vans and rental cars, drivers
clutching maps, in search of movie stars’ houses. The general reaction to the
car was subdued—people noticed it, but did not appear compelled to take a closer
look. (By contrast, I drove a modified Ferrari 360 down Sunset Boulevard this
morning and literally saw jaws drop.) This seems to me to be the Bentley’s
primary draw—a beautiful car that provides a pleasurable driving experience
without attracting undue attention, exactly what the traditional Bentley owner
expects his car to be. ; function voidFunc() { } voidFunc();)
By the time I made my way back to Heritage Classics’
West Hollywood showroom, I was thoroughly charmed. And even the $128,000 price,
on the high side, especially for a right-hand drive model, seemed reasonable in
light of its recent $150,000 restoration and the fact that 1965 was the last
full year in which customers could order bespoke coachwork for sedans from
Crewe. (Click image to enlarge)
Heritage Classics
310.657.9699
www.heritageclassics.com
1965 Bentley Flying Spur
Engine: 6.2-liter V-8
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 123
inches
Curb weight: 4,500 lbs (approximately)
Price: $128,000
(Note:
Bentley traditionally quoted horsepower and torque ratings as “adequate.”)
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