Twenty years ago in 2003, Finding Nemo topped the box office as the number-one film, and “In da Club” from 50 Cent was the most popular music single. Arnold Schwarzenegger was elected as governor of California, and the social network Myspace first launched. The luxurious Bentley Arnage was in its fifth model year, but you had to be exceptionally wealthy to be able to afford one.
The Pick of the Day is a 2003 Bentley Arnage listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Edina, Minnesota. (Click the link to view the listing)
“At the time, one of the most expensive sedans in the world!” the listing begins. “This 2003 Bentley Arnage is stunning. Fully serviced and ready for years of fun.”
Indeed, the Arnage T had a suggested retail price of $228,990. And that was 20 years ago! Adjusted for 2023 dollars, that comes out to a jaw-dropping $386,933. Let that sink in for a minute.
The Arnage had first launched in 1998 as a full-size luxury sedan (or saloon, in proper British terms) by Bentley Motors, with assembly taking place in Crewe, England. The model was co-developed with (and shared chassis elements with) the Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph. Production continued through 2009 with what Bentley called the “Final Series.” (The replacement model was the Bentley Mulsanne)
Power for this executive transporter comes from a BMW-sourced 6.75-liter V8 with Cosworth twin turbochargers. The only available transmission for the 2003 model year was a GM four-speed automatic. Showing just 60,565 miles on the odometer, this 20-year-old car qualifies as having low mileage by most industry standards. The seller says that the car has received a full inspection report, and a four-month, 4,000-mile warranty will be included for peace of mind.
At the top of the center-dash is an Alpine pop-up navigation system, which was advanced for its time. The cabin is full of amenities like generous glossy woodgrain trim, power convenience options, authentic saddle-colored leather upholstery, tray tables, and even color-keyed accents for the dash pad and steering wheel that bring in green hues to align with the exterior. The cabin is truly a treat, and now the chance is yours to enjoy it.
“Be the talk of the town with this Arnage!” the listing concludes.
The asking price is $28,995 or best offer for this luxo-sedan – which remains a status symbol even two decades later.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Source: www.classiccars.com