Bentley reveals strong third quarter figures

Bentley has released positive financial results for the third quarter of 2007.

Turnover increased to over ?1 billion (£700 million) between January and September this year - an improvement of 19.3 per cent on the same period of 2006.

Operating profit also saw an increase, up ?62 million (£43 million) year-on-year to ?107 million (£74 million).

The British manufacturer, which is presently owned by Volkswagen, sold over 7,800 cars by the end of the third quarter, a 19 per cent increase on the figures from the previous year.

Growth was lead by emerging markets, which saw a 72 per cent increase in sales.

Strong growth was also recorded in the UK and Europe, both of which saw a 30 per cent increase in sales, as well as America, which saw a ten per cent increase.

"Our continuing strong product-led performance in the third quarter means that Bentley is on track for a fourth consecutive year of growth in worldwide sales and profitability," said Stuart McCullough, head of sales and marketing at Bentley.

Demand for the manufacturer's cars has been spearhead by Continental GTC convertible, which is presently in its first full year on the market.

Sales of the flagship Arnage and Azure ranges both increased by around 75 per cent, largely based on the Azure convertible.