Image of 1998 Bentley Brooklands, sourced from journal.classiccars.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The Bentley Brooklands of 1998 is a testament to the grandeur of British automotive craftsmanship. Born from the storied Crewe factory, this luxury saloon carries the legacy of Bentley Motors – a brand synonymous with opulence and performance. At a time when the automotive world was pivoting towards futuristic designs and cutting-edge technology, the Brooklands remained true to its roots, offering a driving experience steeped in tradition. A notable moment in its history is the transition phase of Bentley under Volkswagen AG ownership, which began in 1998, adding a layer of complexity to this model's tale.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1998 Bentley Brooklands exudes timeless elegance with its imposing grille and the classic flying 'B' mascot perched atop its bonnet. Its long, sweeping lines and broad shoulders convey a sense of power and presence on the road. Inside, occupants are cocooned in luxury, surrounded by sumptuous leather and rich wood veneers that speak to the vehicle's handcrafted nature. Technologically, it boasted advanced features for its era, such as electronically adjustable suspension and ABS brakes. The color palette included stately options like Peacock Blue and Brooklands Green, with the latter being particularly sought after. The most iconic body style remains the four-door saloon with its distinctive profile.

Historical Significance

The Brooklands was one of the final models to be entirely hand-built at Bentley's Crewe facility before modern production techniques were introduced. It represented a bridge between the old-world charm of Bentley's past and the future direction under new ownership. Its impact on automotive design may not have been revolutionary, but it solidified the notion that luxury and performance could coexist seamlessly.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stately exterior lay a potent 6.75-liter V8 engine that propelled the Brooklands from 0-60 mph in just over 8 seconds – impressive for a car of its size at that time. It had an electronically limited top speed of around 140 mph. The ride was famously smooth, gliding over imperfections with ease while providing enough feedback to make winding roads enjoyable. The sound of the V8 was a symphony of power that only added to the car's character, making every journey an occasion.

Ownership Experience

The Bentley Brooklands was often used as a daily driver by those who demanded luxury without compromise or as a distinguished member of a collector's portfolio. Maintenance requires a specialist's touch due to the intricate craftsmanship and bespoke parts, but reliability is commendable for such an exclusive vehicle.

Fun Facts

The Brooklands has graced many prestigious driveways, including royalty and celebrities alike. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own as one of the most luxurious cars available. Criticisms often centered around its fuel consumption – but for those who could afford a Brooklands, efficiency was rarely a concern.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors value the 1998 Bentley Brooklands for its rarity and representation of traditional Bentley values before more modern influences took hold. With an estimated production number in the low thousands for this year model, it maintains exclusivity on the market. Values can vary widely based on condition and provenance but expect well-maintained examples to fetch anywhere from $30,000 to over $60,000 depending on various factors.

Conclusion

The 1998 Bentley Brooklands stands as an enduring symbol of British luxury motoring at its most traditional. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era where craftsmanship reigned supreme – making it not just a car, but a piece of automotive history worth cherishing.

1998 Bentley Brooklands Gravel Shields. 9" long X 7" wide at top-FS 46Gravel Shields. 9" long X 7" wide at top. Some models also use the Auxiliary Gravel shields (see FS 49). Pair

1998 Bentley Brooklands Auxiliary Gravel Shields (fits some models). 5-3/4" long-FS 49Auxiliary Gravel Shields (fits some models). 5-3/4" long. Pair