Model Car Dark green Bentley Speed 8 number 7 (2003 24 Hours of Le Mans)
Scale 1/43
T. Kristensen / R. Capello / G. Smith
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Bentley Speed 8 - The British legend of the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans
This dark green number 7 Bentley Speed 8 is more than just a model car: it's a piece of automotive history that immortalizes one of the most significant moments in modern motorsport. Reproduced in 1:43 scale with remarkable accuracy, this model car captures the very essence of the machine that restored the British marque's reputation on the world's racetracks.
A true collector's item for racing car enthusiasts and lovers of prestigious model cars, this scale model demonstrates the technical excellence and craftsmanship that characterize the finest reproductions in the automotive world.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Bentley Speed 8
- Brand: Bentley
- Year: 2003
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Dark green
- Race number: 7
- Crew: T. Kristensen / R. Capello / G. Smith
- Protective case included: Yes
The Bentley Speed 8: triumphant return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans
Developed specifically for the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans , the Bentley Speed 8 marks the British marque's resounding return to motorsport after more than 70 years away from the endurance circuit. This revolutionary LMP1 prototype was designed by the Bentley EXP Speed 8 team with a clear objective: to reclaim the Sarthe and restore the Crewe marque's sporting reputation.
Powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine developing nearly 600 horsepower, the Speed 8 impresses with its wind-sculpted aerodynamic lines and iconic green livery reminiscent of the glorious Bentleys of the 1920s. Its carbon fiber monocoque chassis and innovative technical solutions make it a true weapon of war capable of going the distance on the legendary Le Mans circuit.
The 2003 victory was a remarkable achievement in modern endurance racing history, with Bentley managing to prevail against seasoned manufacturers like Audi after an epic 24-hour battle that will live on in the memories of motorsport fans.
Bentley: British excellence since 1919
Founded in 1919 by Walter Owen Bentley , the British brand quickly established itself as a symbol of excellence and performance in the automotive world. From the 1920s onwards, Bentleys dominated European circuits, notably at the 24 Hours of Le Mans where they won five consecutive races between 1924 and 1930, thus forging the legend of the "Bentley Boys".
At the time of the Speed 8's development in 2003, Bentley was undergoing a remarkable renaissance under the aegis of the Volkswagen Group, which had acquired the brand in 1998. This new era was characterized by a return to the brand's sporting roots, while retaining the luxury grand touring DNA for which Bentley is renowned worldwide. The Speed 8 project fits perfectly into this reclaiming strategy, combining historic heritage with cutting-edge technology.
This period also marked the renewal of the production range with iconic models such as the Continental GT, demonstrating that Bentley knew how to combine British tradition and modern innovation to attract a new generation of wealthy customers and lovers of fine mechanics.
The anecdote: when David defeats Goliath at Sarthe
The story of this Bentley Speed 8 number 7 is inseparable from one of the greatest feats of modern motorsport. At the 2003 24 Hours of Le Mans, Bentley went head-to-head with Audi, the undisputed master of endurance racing for several years with its formidable R8. The duel promises to be titanic between British tradition and German efficiency.
Led by the trio of Tom Kristensen, Rinaldo Capello and Guy Smith , the number 7 Speed 8 delivered a perfect race, alternating between leadership and waiting strategies depending on the circumstances. The emotion reached its peak in the final hours when Kristensen, already a five-time winner of Le Mans, took the lead for the final decisive stints.
The overall victory was a truly historic moment : not only did Bentley return to success after a 73-year absence, but it also achieved a resounding one-two finish with its two Speed 8s, demonstrating the technical superiority and reliability of its prototype. This remarkable performance immediately established the Speed 8 as a living legend in motorsport.
This victory resonates particularly with British enthusiasts, who finally find a national manufacturer capable of competing with the German giants on their home turf. It also marks the beginning of a new era for Bentley, confirming its definitive return to the world's elite of prestige and performance automobiles.
Complete your collection of exceptional model cars
This Bentley Speed 8 naturally finds its place in the finest collections of Le Mans 24 Hours model cars , alongside other endurance legends. It is also an ideal addition for Bentley model car enthusiasts who wish to enrich their collection with this emblematic model of the brand's sporting renaissance.
Racing car enthusiasts will particularly appreciate this faithful reproduction, which harmoniously interacts with other legendary prototypes of world endurance racing. This model car is also aimed at collectors of Audi model cars and Formula 1 models , creating coherent thematic sets around the motor sport of excellence.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or an enlightened amateur , this Bentley Speed 8 number 7 represents a lasting heritage investment that will last for generations. Its protective casing guarantees optimal preservation, while its increasing rarity makes it a model particularly sought after by connoisseurs around the world. It will also find its place in collections dedicated to automobiles from the 2000s and French cars for lovers of diverse chronological themes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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