Bentley’s Centenary Events
By Gillian Carmoodie, Auto Classics, February 2019
The year 2019 marks Bentley’s centenary, a milestone achievement that will be celebrated throughout 2019 with a series of special events, showcasing the marque's illustrious history with both upcoming and heritage models.
The first occasion to witness Bentley trumpet its 100th anniversary is the Paris-based Rétromobile, running from February 6th-10th. Kickstarting the marque’s proceedings is a showcase of EXP 2, the oldest remaining Bentley vehicle that also boasts provenance as the brand's first racing model, alongside the all-new Continental GT Convertible.
Bentley will then move celebrations to Florida for the 13th Annual Boca Concours d’Elegance on February 22nd-24th. This will be followed by an exhibition at Bonhams’ auction house for April 11th, and the exclusive Bentley race at Silverstone on April 13th.
To demonstrate the tarmac prowess offered by Britain’s premium luxury marque, the Bentley Drivers Club will then undertake its Centenary Extraordinary Drive from the North coast of Scotland to London, via Bentley's Crewe factory, throughout March 15th-31st.
Perhaps most appropriately, Bentley will be returning to the Le Mans 24 Hours – the scene of six victories for Bentley between 1924 and 2003 – on June 15th-16th before the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts Club Annual Rally & Concours on June 21 at the stately Burghley House, Stamford, UK.
Proceedings then return to France for the rather swanky Chantilly Arts & Elegance concours meeting on June 30th before a long-haul flight for the Rolls-Royce Owners Club National Meting in Detroit come July 22nd.
Naturally, Monterey Car Week will be hosting special displays at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 26th. Then comes the big one, as the Bentley Drivers Club is planning the largest ever gathering of Bentleys in one place at the Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance during September 6th-8th at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.
Get a look at the full list of celebrations below:
