Bentley Spectre Convertible Pininfarina

Vehicle Overview

The Bentley Spectre Convertible is a rare and highly specialized model produced in an extremely limited run between 1995 and 1996. Only nine examples were built, all commissioned exclusively by the royal household of Brunei. Developed in complete secrecy, the Spectre Convertible represents a unique collaboration between Bentley Motors and Pininfarina Studi e Ricerche (PFSR) of Turin, Italy, a firm renowned for its bespoke automotive design and coachbuilding expertise. Designed and constructed entirely by Pininfarina, the Spectre Convertible was based on the Bentley Continental R platform but featured an extensive visual and technical transformation. The project followed the same design principles as its sister model, the Bentley Phoenix, also created for Brunei. In both, the aim was to reinterpret Bentley’s grand touring heritage through a contemporary and personalized lens, while maintaining the core identity of the marque. The Spectre Convertible was fitted with a fabric soft top that integrated smoothly into the bodywork when closed, preserving the car’s elegant silhouette. The exterior design introduced a more aerodynamic profile, characterized by a redesigned front fascia, streamlined grille, and a pair of rounded headlamps. The rear end was similarly refined, with darkened taillamps and a fluid, tapering rear deck. Each car was finished in a bespoke color scheme, including combinations such as Emerald Green with custom green hides, Sandringham Pearl with green interiors, and Diamond Graphite with black hides. Mechanically, the Spectre retained the turbocharged V8 engine derived from the Continental R, referred to internally as the “Sufacon” engine. The powertrain was delivered without catalytic converters, as specified by the client. In addition to engine tuning, the Spectre received upgraded brakes, revised suspension, and unique wheels. Notably, the Spectre and Phoenix models were the first Rolls-Royce/Bentley vehicles to incorporate electronic traction control. Some cars were also fitted with modified exhaust systems to deliver a more pronounced exhaust note. Marked by the “H” in the fifth position of their chassis numbers, these cars fall outside standard production numbering and were built entirely to private order. Each vehicle was uniquely configured in terms of trim, materials, and mechanical details, underscoring the exclusivity and personal nature of the commission.