Bentley's Arabic Customers Get Two Special Continental Models

CREWE, England — Saying it is targeting "influential customers" in the Middle East, Bentley on Tuesday took the wraps off two special-edition Continental models. A mere 50 units of the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Arabia and the Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia will be built, according to Bentley.

Bentley said the Middle East market now represents 10 percent of Bentley retail sales globally and "has doubled its contribution to the worldwide percentage of sales over the last five years."

"We have created these exclusive new models for our Arabic customers in recognition of the growing importance of these influential customers," said Geoff Dowding, Bentley's regional director for Asia and the Middle East in a statement.

Subtlety is the key word here, at least with cosmetic touches. Both get "Arabia" badging on such places as the exterior front fender, tread plate and ashtray lid. Unique wheels are offered on both models. The Continental Flying Spur Arabia gets a 14-spoke diamond alloy wheel. The Continental Flying Spur Speed Arabia gets sportier 10-spoke, 20-inch wheels. Carbon-ceramic brakes are optional.

The Flying Spur Arabia gets the 552-horsepower 6.0-liter W12 engine linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Flying Spur Speed Arabia gets the more powerful 600-hp version of the W12. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

Inside Line says: You'll have to admire these two unusual Continental models from afar, since they are not meant for U.S. buyers. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent