The Bentley Arnage was the brand’s flagship luxury sedan from 1998 to 2009, built during a transformative era for Bentley as it transitioned from traditional British craftsmanship to modern engineering under Volkswagen ownership. With its imposing presence, hand-built interior, and either BMW or Bentley twin-turbo V8 power, the Arnage offered an unmatched combination of old-world elegance and brute-force performance. It remains a symbol of understated wealth and bespoke luxury, attracting collectors who appreciate its analog charm in an increasingly digital world.
Powertrains:
- Early models used a 4.4L twin-turbo BMW V8 (“Green Label”)
- From 1999 onward, Bentley reintroduced its own 6.75L twin-turbo V8 (“Red Label”)
Trims and Variants:
- Arnage R – classic luxury focus
- Arnage T – higher performance, sportier suspension
- Arnage RL – extended wheelbase (longer rear cabin)
- Final Series, Mulliner, Diamond Editions – limited, high-spec collector trims
Current Market Pricing
The Arnage has largely bottomed out in depreciation and is now gaining attention in the collector and luxury-classic markets.
| Variant / Model | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Base Arnage | $18,000 – $40,000 |
| Arnage T (Performance) | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Arnage RL (LWB) | $35,000 – $70,000 |
| Final Series / Mulliner | $60,000 – $100,000+ |
- Average Asking Price: ~$32,000 (U.S. market)
- Lowest Listings: ~$10,000–$15,000 (high-mileage, poor maintenance)
- Highest Recent Sales: ~$88,000+ (for clean, low-mileage RL or Final Series examples)
Ownership Costs & Maintenance
The Bentley Arnage is a deeply rewarding car to own—if properly maintained. Its complexity, rarity, and bespoke components demand both budget and care.
Common Maintenance Items:
- Suspension: Air springs, bushings, and shocks degrade with age.
- Engine: Turbo servicing, cooling systems, and valve guides are known weak points.
- Interior: Veneers, Connolly leather, and wool carpeting require specialist attention.
Estimated Ownership Costs:
- Annual maintenance: $1,500–$3,500
- Major repair bills: $5,000–$10,000+ (especially for drivetrain or electrical issues)
- Insurance: Can be reduced via collector car policies if used sparingly
- Parts sourcing: Some OEM parts for rare trims may become limited or costly
Market Demand & Collector Interest
Key Drivers of Demand:
- Classic British Presence: No other luxury sedan offers the same blend of modern performance and traditional British luxury.
- Low Production Volume: Particularly RL, Mulliner, and Final Series trims.
- Heritage Factor: Last of the big Bentleys before full VW-platform integration.
- Emerging Appreciation: As newer Bentleys trend toward tech and share platforms, the Arnage’s analog appeal and exclusivity gain value.
Buyer Profile:
- Older enthusiasts seeking craftsmanship over tech
- Collectors seeking undervalued flagship sedans
- Luxury car buyers attracted by presence and value
Value Trends & Future Projections
Historical Averages (U.S. Market)
| Year | Avg. Market Price |
|---|---|
| 2010 | ~$35,000 |
| 2015 | ~$28,000 |
| 2020 | ~$30,000 |
| 2024 | ~$32,000–$35,000 |
Forward Projections (Well-Maintained Examples)
| Year | Projected Range |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,000 – $60,000 |
| 2030 | $40,000 – $70,000 |
| 2035 | $45,000 – $80,000+ |
Most Promising for Appreciation:
- 2007–2009 Final Series
- Mulliner custom builds
- RL long wheelbase variants
- Low-mileage, well-documented Red Label examples
Risks & Considerations
Risks to Resale or Ownership:
- High repair costs if not proactively maintained
- Fewer Bentley specialists compared to mainstream brands
- Parts shortages may arise for rare trim-specific items
- Small buyer pool—selling can take time if priced incorrectly
Depreciation Floor: While values have stabilized, poorly maintained examples may never appreciate and remain money pits.
Recommendations
Buy If:
- You value traditional craftsmanship and classic British design.
- You want a V8-powered, analog-era luxury flagship with presence.
- You can commit to specialist maintenance and thoughtful ownership.
Avoid If:
- You need a daily driver or plan to use the car in extreme climates.
- You want a plug-and-play ownership experience.
- You’re looking for rapid appreciation or flipping potential.