Gentleman`s Journal – January `21

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As the new year begins, we're excited to share our stories and insights in this monthly issue of our Gentleman's Journal. This month we'll shine some light on the current situation on classic car regulations, low emission zones, heritage and financial side of things the  throughout Europe. We're also announcing our exclusive Bentley Heritage Rally to Goodwood and showing our latest arrivals and partner news. 

In a vulnerable world full of doubts and precariousness, we're always searching for certainties. If there's one thing we have learnt, it's that we shouldn't blindly follow the media since this often brings more confusion than clarity. Instead, experts worldwide are sharing their insights more than ever. 

While recent studies show that the British classic car industry is good for almost €20 billion of revenue and an employment of over 100.000 people, France announced an extension of their low emission zones. Continue reading to find out more about the future of classic cars in our society.

It's almost hard to imagine but big events like Retromobile, Techno Classica and the events at the Goodwood estate unite classic car enthousiasts worldwide with up to 200.000 visitors. Our passion for cars hasn't faded. In contrary, the lack of events, car shows and social contact amongst enthousiasts makes us hungry for new chapters and adventures with our beloved classics.

Worldwide there are over 110 million classic cars and even more people passionate about them. We can't disavow that the world around us is changing but we're certain that our existence is guaranteed. As long as there's passion, there will be classic cars, rallies, events and economic value. Especially for the kind of real heritage we are collecting and driving.

Old and new instead of old vs new

In the past, there have always been references to old versus new. People were keen to discover the steps we have taken towards modern day technology. Whereas nowadays, we notice a trend of embracing the heritage that made us who we are.

Matching both the Covid-19 topic as our view on the replenishment between old and new, we're happy to announce that there is a covid-proof car show going on at our partner Bentley Antwerp. Discover their premium event 7 days a week and find the perfect match between classic cars, new cars and even some exclusive race cars. It feels great to share a passion, doesn't it? 

Belrose goes Goodwood – Bentley Heritage Rally

6 days of rallying, the full Goodwood Revival experience, exclusive Bentley Motors factory visit, Brooklands Motor Circuit & museum, premium catering and five star hotels. A true Bentley enthousiast doesn't need more to start dreaming about this bucket list experience, isn't it? Get in touch for more info on this unforgettable rally from 14 to 19 september or 15 to 20 september 2021, depending on your departure group.

New arrivals for sale at Belrose Classics

Bentley S1
This two-tone Bentley S1 is a true gentleman's driver. Get behind the wheel of this luxurious saloon and discover the grandeur of Great Britain during the booming fifties. 

Bentley Special Blue Train
Few cars embody the glamour, speed and power of the pre-war Bentley era better than the ‘Blue Train' Bentley Speed Six. In this car Bentley Boy Woolf Barnato raced and beat the famous Train Bleu…

This month's partner news is dedicated to Hillewaere Verzekeringen. They are not only the insurance partner of many car collectors and drivers but also a loyal fan, client and partner of Belrose Classics. Hillewaere owner, Roel Druyts, is a passionate Bentley Special rally driver who is always up for an adventure.

This month's partner news is dedicated to Hillewaere Verzekeringen. They are not only the insurance partner of many car collectors and drivers but also a loyal fan, client and partner of Belrose Classics. Hillewaere owner, Roel Druyts, is a passionate Bentley Special rally driver who is always up for an adventure.

Based on the taxation value, without alarm requirements, and at competitive prices with great terms & conditions. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy your car even more intensely.

Hillewaere Verzekeringen, your expert in ensuring your exclusive cars & oldtimers.

See you at Belrose Classics

The only thing left in this mailing is to thank you for reading this month's issue of our Gentleman's Journal. If you're feeling like seeing, feeling or even driving one of our Bentleys, feel free to get your appointment. Our showroom and workshop open and we're ready to share our passion for Bentley Specials, from the magnificent Speed 6 Blower to the sturdy “Peking To Paris” or our elegant Justine.

As better days are around the corner, we're looking forward to seeing you again soon at a rally or event. Make sure to bring your car in for maintenance and rally preparations because you'll want to drive it all summer long if the measures allow it.

See you at Belrose Classics!

Go top

South Africa & Namibia

Route:
Cape Point → Cederberg mountains → Namaqualand region → Orange River area → Windhoek

Overview:
The Cape Town to Namibia Classic was a perfect escape from reality. To watch the African wildlife from the cockpit of a vintage Bentley is an incredible feeling. And the fast & fluent dirt roads are the perfect match for the big wheels on the Bentley Specials.

Highlights:

  • African wildlife in full glory
  • Fish River Canyon
  • Klein Aus Vista
  • Reliable work
  • VIP experience
  • Premium hospitality

Morocco

Route:
Portugal → Spain → Morocco → Mauritania → Senegal → Dakar

Overview:
Some of our Belrose Bentley Specials participated in the Sahara Challenge. Against the elements in pure camaraderie.

Highlights:

  • Reliable work
  • VIP experience
  • Premium hospitality

Argentina, Peru, Chili & Bolivia

Overview:
In 2024, one of our clients participated in a stunning rally in South
America. The Belrose Bentley Special performed flawlessly in this
incredible scenery.

Highlights:

  • Reliable work
  • VIP experience
  • Premium hospitality

Dubai

Overview:
The Middle East is known for luxury and welfare. Our Bentley Specials blend
in perfectly in the city of Dubai and in the desert.

Highlights:

  • VIP experience
  • Premium hospitality

LA & New York

Overview:
We sold a car in Beverly Hills and New York.

Highlights:

  • VIP experience
  • Premium hospitality

Peking To Paris

Route:
Peking → Ürümqi → Almaty → Kyzylorda → Baku → Tbilsi → Istanbul → Sofia → Salzburg → Paris

Overview:
Beijing is the start of many great adventures. The Peking to Paris Rally
is known as the toughest rally in the world.

Highlights:

  • Our Belrose Bentley Boys &
    Belles get to enjoy a great cocktail at the end of every stage where
    other participants usually only get to hold tools and spare parts.

Vehicle Experience:
Both our Justine as our Speed 6 Models have a “P2P” version that is ready for the ultimate long distance rally. Our cars are developed to be the most reliable and comfortable cars for a trip like this one.

Cambodja, Laos & Vietnam

Overview:
A couple of years ago, we used the rally in Cambodja, Laos and
Vietnam to test the durability and comfort of our Bentley Specials. This
trip has proven to be the start of many great international adventures.

Highlights:

  • Zoute Grand Prix
  • Jeroen Bosch GP
  • Hesbaye Historic Festival
  • Bentley Boys Tour

Hong Kong

Overview:
We sold our first car in Hong Kong in 2024.

Highlights:

  • A vivid classic car market

Spain

Overview:
With a sales point in Marbella, we are often found at the Costa del Sol.
Besides our own homebase in Spain, we also participated in some rallies in
and around this region.

Highlights:

  • Tour Andalusia

Benelux

Overview:
Belgium is the home of the Belrose Bentley Specials. Here we have our
Headquarters, workshop and multiple classic cars driving around in local
rallies. Our neighbours in Luxemburg and The Netherlands also have a great
amount of Bentley Specials on the road.

Highlights:

  • Zoute Grand Prix
  • Jeroen Bosch GP
  • Hesbaye Historic Festival
  • Bentley Boys Tour

Bentley Boys Tour 2023

Route:
Knokke → Brooklands → South Downs National Park → Isle of Wight and Hayling Island → Goodwood Motor Circuit → Heritage Coast

Date:
September 6 – September 10, 2023

Overview:
A unique Bentley heritage rally across England, combining legendary automotive destinations with scenic countryside drives. Designed for classic Bentley enthusiasts, this experience blends historic circuits, exclusive access, and refined hospitality with unforgettable roadbook journeys.

Highlights:

  • Channel crossing and scenic drive from Belgium to England
  • Exclusive visit and photoshoot at Brooklands Museum
  • Roadbook rally through the rolling landscapes of South Downs National Park
  • Coastal driving experience across Isle of Wight and Hayling Island
  • VIP experience at Goodwood Motor Circuit including races, hospitality, and paddock access
  • Final scenic drive along the Heritage Coast with views of the iconic white cliffs.

Vehicle Experience:
Participants drive pre-1954 classic Bentley cars in teams of two, fully supported with roadbooks, logistics, and premium hospitality. The experience includes curated routes, luxury hotel stays, dining, and full event support, ensuring a seamless and exclusive rally experience.