They don't make 'em like this any more. It's a Bentley to the old-school formula of massive, hand-built body, the plushest tailor-made specification and antique V8 engine. At least, later examples got the antique engine - when it launched the Arnage, Bentley caused a hoo-hah by fitting a BMW-Cosworth 4.4-litre V8. Outraged owners demanded the reinstatement of the 6.8-litre Rolls V8 that dates back to the '60s, and they got it in the Red Label.

The Arnage is superlatively well-built. That means it does last very well (it's estimated that three-quarters of all Bentleys ever built are still in existence).

Provenance is all with the Arnage: who has looked after the car? What has the service record been like? Has it been cared for at regular intervals?

Condition is much more important than age: if the panels, paintwork, interior and engine bay are not 100% immaculate, expect to pay well below guide prices. A rough-looking Bentley is just not cricket.

Most Arnages have low mileages, but they can take very high mileages, especially those fitted with the venerable 6.8-litre V8. Gearchanges should be super-smooth, too. Tyres along with many other service items are extremely expensive, so remember to check that proper Bentley original equipment items have been fitted.

Bentley Arnage rivals
Rolls-Royce Phantom

Bentley Arnage road tests
Bentley Arnage T - February 1, 2002
Bentley Arnage Red Label Le Mans - July 1, 2001
Bentley Arnage - February 22, 2001
Bentley Arnage - November 1, 1999
Bentley Arnage - June 1, 1998