As we’re sure you’re very aware, Bentley is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and has already put on numerous displays at various events around the globe as well as introducing a variety of new models and restored classics in honor of this special occasion. Yet their preparations for the upcoming Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance at Blenheim Palace will be the most impressive yet.
First off will be the rather special 1939 Bentley Corniche prototype, recreated by Bentley Mulliner. It will be making its global debut on the first day of Salon Privé, Thursday 5 September. This car is the only one of its type in existence and bridges the gap between the famous Bentley Embiricos of 1935 and the R-Type Continental of 1952—models which still inspire the modern-day Continental GT.
Another significant Bentley making its UK debut will be the EXP 100 GT, a new concept car exploring the future of the brand. It will be on display from Thursday till Saturday when it will join eleven other Bentleys including the 1939 Corniche and a 1929 4½ liter Team Blower to form ‘The Magnificent Dozen’ and celebrate 100 years of production.
There will also be a gala dinner hosted by the Bentley Drivers Club in Blenheim Palace, and the Salon Privé Bentley Masters event will see Bentley chairman and chief executive Adrian Hallmark, along with a team of adjudicators, judging a selection of 50 Bentleys from across all eras. The most visually spectacular treat will be saved for last when on Sunday over 1000 Bentleys will travel to Blenheim Palace from across the country, setting a world record in the process.
Images courtesy of Bentley
