Are Rolls-Royce and Bentleys the Same Cars?
Rolls-Royce and Bentley are not the same cars but they are closely related. Both brands are renowned for their luxury vehicles and share a rich history. Despite their differences, they both have a unique identity and are distinct in the luxury car market. This article explores the history, brand positioning, models, and recent ownership changes of these iconic automotive brands.
History
Rolls-Royce was founded in 1904 and Bentley was established in 1919. Initially, both brands were independent enterprises, but their relationship changed in the 1930s. In 1931, Rolls-Royce acquired Bentley, leading to a period where both brands were produced under the same corporate umbrella. However, they remained distinct entities, each maintaining its own identity and characteristics.
Brand Positioning
Rolls-Royce is recognized as the pinnacle of luxury, emphasizing a more serene and opulent driving experience. On the other hand, Bentley combines luxury with performance, offering a sportier and more dynamic character. Both brands have a shared understanding of luxury but approach it with different philosophies.
Models
Despite sharing some platforms and components, especially in recent years, each brand has its distinct models, styling, and features. For example, the Rolls-Royce Phantom and the Bentley Mulsanne cater to similar high-end markets but offer different design philosophies and driving experiences. This differentiation ensures that both brands can maintain their unique identities in the luxury car market.
Ownership Changes
In more recent years, Rolls-Royce has been owned by BMW while Bentley is part of the Volkswagen Group (VAG). This ownership change has further differentiated the design and engineering of these brands. However, despite the different ownership, both Rolls-Royce and Bentley have retained their souls and are considered the ultimate expression of luxury cars.
From the 1960s to the late 1990s, Rolls-Royce owned Bentley, but they separated in 1998. The acquisitions by BMW and VAG have resulted in a more distinct brand identity for both Rolls-Royce and Bentley, although they remain closely related. While things went a little messy during the separation, both brands have continued to evolve and preserve their unique qualities.
Despite their proximity in terms of history and engineering, Rolls-Royce and Bentley are distinct brands with unique identities and offerings in the luxury car market. Their recent ownership by different automotive groups has led to further differentiation, ensuring that each retains its own essence and appeal to their loyal customer base.