ONE-OFF CARS

Bentley Continental R: A Classic Ready for Modern Redesign

Enter the 1991–2003 Bentley Continental R. This model is special because it was the first Bentley not to use a Rolls-Royce body since the 1962–65 S3 Continental, and it was the world’s most expensive production car until the McLaren F1 emerged in 1992. Powered by a turbocharged 6.75-liter V-8 and equipped with a GM-sourced four-speed transmission, the Continental R was a top-tier luxury cruiser of its time, offering 325 to 420 hp. With only 1,504 units produced, Niels van Roij Design respects the Continental R’s legacy by making refined updates rather than radical changes.

Modernizing the Bentley Continental R

This rebody approach focuses on streamlining surfaces and adding larger wheels for a sportier look, all while staying within the car’s original homologation and crash-testing boundaries. This means limited changes to body panels and no alterations to the existing lights, as creating new units would exceed the project’s budget.

The Power of Design

Niels van Roij Design demonstrates, skilled use of digital tools can significantly deviate from the original design. With modern headlights and accessories that can be retrofitted, a dedicated buyer could transform this contemporary Bentley Continental R design into a reality that Niels van Roij’s team could begin hand-hammering.

Coachbuilding: More Than Just Show-Stopping Exotica

Traditionally, coachbuilding hasn’t been limited to spectacular exotica. Discreet changes, tailored to the client’s wishes and needs, have been just as common as show-stopping one-offs. Even recently, Pininfarina’s 612 K—a Scaglietti with moderate changes aligned with its owner’s preferences—demonstrated that a “bespoke” car can sometimes be like a bespoke suit: featuring adjusted details for a perfect fit, rather than conspicuousness.

Bespoke Luxury: Adventum Coupé vs. Flashy spoilers

If the loud, flashy tuners of today are akin to one of Liberace’s customized suits, the Adventum Coupé resembles a traditional double-breasted blazer by a discreet tailor near Savile Row. It won’t draw stares on the streets, but those in the know will nod in restrained appreciation.