The Bentley Azure was launched in 1995 and based on the platform of the Continental R coupé which had been launched in 1991. The Azure often surprised with its size and bulk, intended to both convey a sense of presence and allow for comfortable seating of four adult passengers. Power came from the company's stalwart 6.75 litre V8, featuring a single intercooled turbocharger producing in the region of 380bhp. The gearbox was a General Motors sourced four-speed automatic unit with the Azure capable of 0 to 60mph in an impressive 6.1 seconds. Owing to the limited space at Bentley's Crewe factory, the Azure was designed and manufactured by Pininfarina, significantly adding to the vehicle's production cost. From 1999, the Azure was also available in 'Mulliner Trim' which added special bespoke trim and additional equipment, thus allowing the buyer the option for further customisation during the build process. Pricing varied as equipment could be significantly different from one to the next depending on personal preferences.