The Bentley Continental GT is a grand tourer manufactured and marketed by British automaker Bentley Motors since 2003. It was the first car released by Bentley under Volkswagen AG management, after the company's acquisition in 1998, and the first Bentley to employ mass-production manufacturing techniques. After making its debut at the 2002 Paris Motor Show it went on general sale the following year.

This stunning two-door Bentley refined and redefined the grand tourer design. The Continental GT has continued to combine great performance with exquisite craftsmanship, with continual enhancements being made over the years in terms of both power and choice of finishes.

Early models included a choice of 6 body colours (Diamond Black, Burnt Oak, Cypress, Neptune, Spruce, and Umbrian Red), 8 hide colours (Beluga, Burnt Oak, Laurel, Nautic, Portland, Saffron, Savannah, Saddle), 5 veneer types (Burr Oak, Burr Walnut, Dark Stained Walnut, Madrona, Piano Black) and 4 carpet and seatbelt colours (Beluga, Burnt Oak, Laurel, Nautic). The dashboard clock was made by Swiss luxury watchmaker Breitling.

History has also been made with this modern classic with four-time world rally champion Juha Kankkunen breaking the world ice speed record in a Continental GT Convertible. Peter Blake, the pop art legend, also created a unique exterior for a Continental GT V8 S.

American musician Prince owned a 2006 Continental GT Coupe in Baby Blue. Upon his death, in April 2016, the car was placed on permanent display on the sound stage at his famous Paisley Park Studios in Chanhassen, Minnesota.

The Continental GT was offered in both coupe and convertible form and when it first came on the market back in 2003, a W12 model was available – a real benchmark for all that was to follow later. A convertible variant followed and then the Continental GT Speed, with even greater power and luxury.

The Second Generation was launched in 2010 after being unveiled at that year's Paris Motor Show, with a redesign that would soon feature a 4-litre V8 engine alongside the famous W12. Over the years, the engines also became more efficient thanks to innovations in technology.

A Third Generation appeared in 2018 after being launched at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Various models have been added since its birth in 2003 which cater for the different needs of the buyer and a growing worldwide customer base, including the Continental Supersports, the fastest road-going Bentley ever built with 700 bhp.

The Bentley Continental GT may still be a relatively young car but is already well-deserving of its classic status. The Continental GT and GT Convertible were designed for those who embrace the luxury of spontaneity. The Continental's fusion of everyday practicality, exquisite craftsmanship and exceptional performance remains unrivalled

If you are looking to buy a Bentley then take a look at our new Rolls-Royce & Bentley exclusive website for a great selection from dealers around the UK and overseas.

https://www.classicrollsroyce-bentley.com/home/

If you are a dealer with vehicles for sale then contact us to find out about our latest marketing and advertising packages that will enable your stock to gain maximum exposure.

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Rolls-Royce reported a record year for sales in 2022 with 6,021 cars sold, this being a rise of 7.8% from 2021. Despite a decline in the Chinese market, the second highest market worldwide for Rolls-Royce after the United States, the year saw an average sales price of $534,000.00.

The shortfall in China was due to coronavirus-related issues and lockdowns in the country but the US market remained in good shape, with 35% of sales worldwide coming from here. The Chinese drop in sales was, however, offset by significant growth in other markets.

The order book for 2023 is already looking healthy for all models, with Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Muller Otvos stating they had not seen any slowdown in orders yet, despite no longer selling to the Russian market as a result of the Ukraine situation.

The Cullinan was the biggest seller during the year making up almost half of the global sales, with the Ghost also contributing greatly to the record figures with a 30% share and the Phantom at 10%, the first time that Rolls-Royce has sold over 6,000 cars in a single year.

The customized and bespoke approach of the Rolls-Royce brand has resulted in customers demanding even more personal and imaginative orders. These commissions enable the customer to help design their own vehicle in all areas such as paint colour schemes, embroidered headliners, one-off wooden materials and even personalized drink cabinets and champagne chests.

With the opening of a Private Office in Dubai for invitation-only clients and to better serve their VIP and bespoke clients in the Middle East, this region has developed into the leader in highly customized and "high-end" bespoke vehicles. As a result, more of these Private Offices are expected to open around the world this year.

Despite a drop in sales, China still contributed 25% of the global sales figure. With the country reopening and with economic recovery, it is quite possible that China could ultimately become the largest market in the not-too-distant future.

The Spectre was also introduced in 2022, being officially unveiled in October. Even with a starting price of just over $400,000.00, more than 300 preorders were seen from the USA. This is Rolls-Royce's first venture into the electric car market, with its long-term plan to become fully electric by 2030.

With a large backlog of orders, the future looks strong for the company. A purchase today could mean a wait of 10 months to a year for a new customer, depending on the model and specific features.

2023 looks to be one of continued strength for Rolls-Royce, with a cautious level of optimism for another strong year.

For a great selection of classic or vintage Rolls-Royce models for sale, news and information then head to our new marque-specific website right here https://www.classicrollsroyce-bentley.com/home/

• • Historics Auctioneers announces exclusive 100-car sale at The London Classic Car Show on Saturday, 25^th February 2023

• • Early entry of a 550bhp 2016 AC Cobra 427-SC by Kirkham sets the adrenaline-fuelled tempo  

Historics Auctioneers is starting 2023 in style with an exclusive sale at The London Classic Car Show on Saturday, 25^th February 2023, celebrating the return of the showcase event to the capital after a three-year absence with a glittering array of must-see features and attractions.

As Official Auction Partner to this, the capital’s premier classic car event at Olympia, West London on 24-26^th February, Historics - known for its varied and eclectic auction consignments - will offer for sale 100 fine classic and collector cars at the heart of the venue that’s been steeped in motoring history for more than a century.

The addition of the London Classic Car Show to Historics’ yearly schedule will be reflected in a carefully-curated entry appealing to the breadth of classic car enthusiasts and collectors.

An early sale entry, a mighty and sparingly-used 2016 AC Cobra 427-SC by the famed USA specialist Kirkham Motorsports - featuring an FIA-correct hand-rolled alloy body, 7-litre powerhouse with 550bhp underfoot - sets the hair-raising tempo to what is sure to be an adrenalin-fuelled sale.

The official show partnership and auction mark a further step-up in Historics’ increasing profile, coming six months after adding Bicester Heritage to its auction roster that also includes Ascot Racecourse, Mercedes-Benz World Brooklands and Windsorview Lakes Berkshire.

Commenting for Historics, CEO Mark Perkins, remarked:  “We are delighted to sign the exclusive agreement with The London Classic Car Show.  Having established and grown to become the South of England’s premier classic car auction specialists, it’s a natural extension to now bring Historics’ unique auction flavour to London and to the legion of enthusiasts in the capital and beyond.”

Martin Clark, Content Director, Cars, at show organiser Brand Events, enthused: “It’s great to be back at Olympia and to welcome Historics as our new Official Auction Partner.

“A live, public auction never fails to create an electric atmosphere and I’m sure all those coming to London will be spellbound as the bidding starts – even more so if they are tempted to raise an arm! Either way, we are delighted that Historics will be part of our fantastic show and providing us all with even more amazing cars from former golden eras to savour… if not buy.” 

Entries are now invited....

With capacity limited to 100 Lots, Historics is encouraging early consignment to The London Classic Car Show Sale on 01753 639170, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  For further news on the sale, and to pre-register to bid, see www.historics.co.uk and follow Historics on social media.

In most of the northern hemisphere winter is fast approaching, so thoughts now start to turn to the all-important winter storage of our classic cars. Today, we take a look at some of the essential points to consider when storing your vehicle and also showcase one of the leading dedicated classic car storage facilities in central London, this being London Car Store, which is the only car storage facility actually located in central London.

Firstly, Cleaning Your Car fully inside and out, including a wash, polish and wax, is an essential starting point. Make sure there is no rubbish or forgotten food hidden away anywhere too. After cleaning, a short run for just 10 minutes will ensure all brake discs are dry.

Next, Wheels and Tyres need inspection so remove and clean all wheel nuts and ensure they are greased with a good anti-seize on the threads before putting them back on. For the tyres, clean out any debris and add an extra 10 psi, unless you can store the car using axle stands – but remember to check tyre pressure and reduce it should you wish to take the car out for a drive.

Moving on, Fuel Levels are essential so fill the fuel tank with premium-grade fuel to avoid any condensation and, if you need to, add some fuel stabiliser to help. Also, remember to fill your anti-freeze with liquid at the right concentration.

Parking can be overlooked, so be sure to park your vehicle with the bonnet facing out, to enable easy access to the battery in particular. Leave the handbrake off and the car in gear (or in "Park" if an automatic) as this will prevent brakes from seizing.

Battery Care is essential although there is no need to remove the battery during winter storage, but it should be maintained and charged. We recommend using a good battery conditioner & charger for this purpose. Keeping windscreen wipers slightly off the glass is also a good idea, to prevent the rubber from perishing.

Next, Preventing Moisture and allowing Air Circulation is essential so it's a good idea to leave the driver's window slightly open, just enough to allow a little finger through but no more, as this will allow a small air flow in the car. Using a dehumidifier is also an option but be sure it is not set too high, as this will draw all moisture from everything.

Finally, it is time to Cover Your Car, so prior to covering it might be useful to put a bung of some kind in the exhaust and cover air intakes. Your actual car cover should not be 100% waterproof so it's best to invest in a semi-tailored breathable cover of some kind. For added security and safety, ensure all garage windows are covered, no garage door remote is left in the car, and you have valid insurance even during these storage months.

During the winter months, keep an eye on your car at least every 30 days. Check the battery conditioner, look over the vehicle for any unwanted additions, look in the boot, under the bonnet, check tyre pressures. Keep an eye open for any oil leaks, make sure that no water or fuel is leaking into the engine oil, and get in and pump the brakes every week or so.

It's not recommended to start up the engine and keep it running for a while during storage but, if there is a nice day, take the car out for a short run, just to warm everything up. However, be sure to check everything has been connected (or disconnected where necessary) before going out and follow the storage steps again on return.

All sounds a lot to do, doesn't it? However, help is at hand if you don't want the hassle yourself. There are many excellent car storage providers out there and, if you are in or near central London, we can strongly recommend the services of London Car Store, a secure car and motorcycle storage facility right in the heart of the capital.

Just five minutes' walk from Marble Arch tube station and the Paddington mainline, they offer an underground storage location that has no public access and has a 24-hour monitored alarm system linked directly to the Metropolitan Police Service. On weekdays, the facility is also fully manned for the full duration of their business hours.

London Car Store will clean your car, complete a thorough check, and then cover it with static dust sheets (unless you wish to use your own cover). If you bring your car in with its battery conditioner they'll ensure it remains in perfect condition throughout, if you don't have one then they have industry-respected CTEK battery conditioners available for purchase.

During storage they will also check the oil, washer and tyre pressures at no extra cost – it's all part of the service – with a minimum storage period of just one month.

Give them a call if you have any questions or require information on 020 7262 8887 or check out their website at www.londoncarstore.com

This museum in Stuttgart has over 1,500 exhibits on show and is spread over nine levels, covering a floor space of 16,500 m². The history of Mercedes-Benz is in full view here from the very first patented car in the world to the most recent hydrogen vehicle.

Invented by Carl Benz in 1886, the museum celebrates all that the iconic brand stands for; the history, stories, technology and its place in popular culture. Over 160 vehicles of all types form the main centrepiece of the museum, ranging from some of the oldest vehicles ever made to legendary racing cars and vehicles of the future.

These vehicles, together with all of the other exhibits, form a permanent exhibition located in twelve different rooms that can be covered in group or private tours.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm, with the ticket office closing at 5 pm – the museum is closed on Mondays and opening hours may vary during holiday periods.

At just 12 Euros for a regular day ticket, the museum offers great value, with reduced tickets also available for 6 Euros and free entry for children up to and including the age of 12.

There are special events and exhibitions organised during the year, guided tours, and activities for kids, so you are guaranteed a great day out.

With so many vehicles on display, here we highlight just a small selection of the legends that you will see during your visit.

The 40 PS Mercedes Simplex is the oldest Mercedes still in existence and was the successor to the 35 PS Mercedes designed by Wilhelm Maybach, which was the world's first car of the modern age. It was given the "Simplex" name due to the ease with which it handled and had a top speed of 50 mph from its 4-cylinder engine.

The 75 PS Mercedes was the first series model and was built between 1907 and 1911, with a variety of different bodies. The one shown here is an open tourer (phaeton) that featured two rows of seats. Another 4-cylinder engine which was capable of reaching a top speed of 59 mph.

At the start of the 50s, we saw the release of the Mercedes-Benz 300 S, a top-of-the-range and very sporty model. Available as a coupe, convertible and roadster it had 6 cylinders and a top speed of 108 mph, with only 560 units produced.

In 1954, the 300 SL production sports car came out. This iconic vehicle soon became known as the Gullwing because of its very characteristic upward-opening doors. With a top speed of 162 mph, it became the dream car of the 1950s and was produced from 1954 to 1957.

And finally, moving into the mid-60s, we can see the Mercedes-Benz 230 SL, which was the world's first sports car with a sturdy passenger cell and crumple zones - and also its concaved removable hardtop. Due to this appearance, it soon became known as the Pagoda, a reference to Asian temples of the same name and their roof shape.19831 units were produced between 1963 and 1967 and the 230 SL was capable of reaching a speed of 124 mph.

The Mercedes-Benz Museum Stuttgart is well worth a visit and you can read all about it here on their official website: https://www.mercedes-benz.com/en/art-and-culture/museum/

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2022 will see the 60th birthday of possibly the most famous car in the world, the iconic Ferrari 250 GTO. With only 39 models built, the 250 GTO was destined for greatness, going on to win races with its high performance and admiration for its stunning looks. So, as we wish a happy 60th to such a classic in 2022, we thought it only right to mention a few other notable milestones from both 1952 and 1962.

In 1952, three classics were born that will celebrate 70 year anniversaries in 2022. Firstly, the Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, now with the option of a four-speed automatic gearbox as opposed to only manual. It was launched as a successor to the earlier Dawn and Bentley MkVI models.

The Bentley Continental R, with its sleek body designed by HJ Mulliner, also appeared in 1952. This very stylish classic was fitted with a manual gearbox in what was a real supercar of the day, but an automatic version was also available. High-speed cruising was the key feature of this beauty, with 100mph attainable even with four occupants.

Completing a trio of Platinum jubilee cars is the Austin A30. This model was initially manufactured as a four-door version in 1952, with two-door and Countryman estate versions following soon after. With a new A-series engine, this A30 was certainly a more visually appealing model than earlier Austin vehicles. This small family car was released as a competitor to the Morris Minor.

As we move into the 60s, 1962 saw the birth of another four classics that will reach their Diamond anniversary in 2022, beginning with the MGB Roadster. For many years the MGB was the best-selling sports car in the world, with production continuing right up until the early 1980s. The Roadster released in 1962 was bigger and more comfortable than the previous MGA, and also quicker. The MGB was only manufactured as a Roadster initially, with another three years passing before a closed GT coupe version became available.

The Triumph Spitfire is another that turns 60 in 2022. This small sports car was built to take on the MG Midget, and with its spacious interior and more powerful engine, it soon became a very popular model, still selling well into the early 80s.

How could we compile a list of 60-year-olds and not mention this one, the iconic AC Cobra? With a Ford V8 engine installed, the first AC Cobra was manufactured in January 1962, with later models having a slightly larger engine capacity. This Carol Shelby classic had amazing performance and would go on to write its own history on the road and race track.

Completing our 60th birthday honours list is the Alfa Romeo Giulia. This early 60s saloon sold over 800,000 models during a 10-year production life. With its smart looks and manual five-speed gearbox, the Giulia was a very agile mover, despite being aimed at the family market.

So there we have a shortlist of Platinum and Diamond anniversary classics to celebrate in 2022, although they still have a few years to go before reaching the century mark of 100 years! One final raise of the glass is in order for the Amilcar C4, which reaches this remarkable milestone in 2022, a car that first appeared was back in 1922 in the days of the cyclecar market!