Paradise in Motion
The Bentley Bacalar is not merely a car, it’s an event. Born from the Mulliner coachbuilding tradition, this hand-built grand tourer is for those who believe exclusivity should be measured in the smallest figures possible. Just twelve exist, each tailored to its owner’s desires, no matter how crazy, with all examples powered by Bentley’s mighty 6.0-litre W12, which delivers effortless, turbine-smooth power. Many suggested the Bacalar was merely a facelifted, ultra-rare convertible Continental GT when it was first unveiled in 2020, but it feels different in almost every way. More intimate, more purposeful, and stripped of excess while being swathed in peerless craftsmanship. It’s the kind of machine that reminds you what Bentley once stood for: grand touring elevated to art. Examples are, as we mentioned, incredibly scarce, making this vibrant red with a beige and red interior heading to RM Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi sale a true must-have for an exclusive car lover!
Catch me if you can
By now, we’ve all likely heard the stories of a 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged hyper saloon car that would breeze passed even the fastest of British police cruisers, leaving a trail of bank notes and stolen goods in its wake. The Opel Omega, or Lotus Carlton as the UK's police force would know it, has its name deeply etched into super saloon car history. Producing 377 horsepower and a staggering 568 Nm of torque, this understated rocket ship could easily keep pace with even the fastest of Porsche 911s of the time. With iconic 1990s machines showing no sign of slowing in price and popularity, the time to invest in one of Opel’s greatest creations is most certainly now!
Super Speedster
For those wanting a little extra out of their Porsche 356 in the late 1950s, US importer Max Hoffmann had the answers to their desires. He saw a need for a lightweight and more open-top version of the Porsche 356, prompting an idea for the spartan 356 Speedster. The new model quickly became a myth and lifestyle statement, with cool rebels in the USA of the 1950s ordering, loving, driving and racing the 356 Speedster on weekends all over the country. From legends like James Dean to Steve McQueen, the Speedster was the café racer to own in this golden era, with its desirability never dwindling even nearly 70 years later. This example, finished in Ivory with a minimal black leather interior, has remained with the same owner for an impressive 27 years, with the engine and gearbox being original.
Baby Blue Bulletproof Benz
Built during an era when cost-cutting was a foreign concept at Mercedes-Benz, the W140 was more than just a flagship saloon built for hauling CEOs, it was a rolling fortress. Offering double-glazed windows, soft-close doors, and a presence that commanded absolute respect, the V12 flagship S600 became an instant symbol of success, wealth, and power. This was particularly the case with the metallic blue example we present to you, first registered to the Embassy of Oman and in service incredibly until 2022. Being a limosine intended for state use, this S600 boasts high-strength armoured steel roof, door and floor panels, as well as multi-layered safety glass and lined tyres designed to withstand bullets and spike stripes. Even the S600’s fuel tank received splinter protection, making it virtually impenetrable to the outside world, just what you need for the daily commute!
Half a Veyron, Double the Space
Even 24 years on, we’re still scratching our heads over who at Volkswagen thought of injecting their lovable family wagon with a 4.0-litre, eight-cylinder engine, good for over 275 horsepower, paired with an all-wheel drive system and a manual gearbox. The truth is, though, we are so pleased they made it happen. This estate is perhaps the ultimate factory sleeper, slipping firmly under the radar of even the most eagle-eyed car spotters. Once you do spot it, though, you’ll know hiding under its bonnet is half of a Bugatti Veyron's heart, an accolade that has given this car true cult status all over the world. With a mere 11,000 examples of the W8 produced, finding one in Deep Blue Pearl, the very same paint used on the iconic R32, in such great condition is a true rarity!
