The recent line of special-edition Bentley Mulsanne models is about to gain a new addition with today's unveiling of the Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition. But before you start tying up this Mulsanne with those Birkin bags from Hermes, understand that we're talking about a totally different inspiration for the former.

That inspiration comes in the form of Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin, a legendary race car->ke148 driver from the 1920s and 1930s who was also identified as a style icon in his own right. He's like David Beckham in today's time, at least if Beckham raced cars for a living as opposed to kicking soccer balls.

In any case, the Birkin inspiration was intentional, in large part because the racer was considered a true and true Bentley->ke15 Boy and this lineup of Mulsanne models -- 22 models in total -- pays homage to the man with numerous unique styling details representing only the finest in British luxury.

The Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition is available in three colors -- Ghost White, Damson for a more vibrant touch, and a sophisticated contrast of Fountain Blue and Dark Sapphire -- each carrying a distinctively unique appeal in it of themselves. Door sill plaques have also been added, each carrying a distinctive number to represent which of the 22 models it is.

Inside, its a picture of luxury->ke505, one that can only be identified as a true Bentley. Striking 3D ‘Flying B’ logos have been stitched into the headrests and inlaid into the wood of the front fascia and rear picnic tables. Similarly, the seats and door panels were given intricate diamond quilting patterns and complemented by the indented leather headlining and ‘knurling’ details that were done on the cabin's metalwork.

One thing we know for certain: very few cars in the world come with the same level of intricate and extravagant handiwork that was done on the Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition.

And if those aren't enough, the 22-unit vehicle can also be bought with an Entertainment Specification package, which includes twin 8-inch LCD screens in the rear of the seat headrests, a DVD player, a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Naim for Bentley premium audio system and iPads integrated into the hand-crafted solid wood picnic tables.

Luxury meets functionality meets technology meets exclusivity. That, in a nutshell, is how you can put the Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition into proper context.

Click past the jump to read more about the Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition

2014 Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 505
  • Torque: 752
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Bentley Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition

The Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition is available in three colors, including this contrasting and sophisticated Fountain Blue and Dark Sapphire finish.

Only 22 models of the Mulsanne Birkin Limited Edition were made. Translation: they're going to be collectible pieces in the future!

3D ‘Flying B’ logos were stitched into the vehicle headrests, identifying the model as a true limited edition.

Clean and sophisticated interior, like all Mulsannes are.

Fine crafted luggages are also part of the vehicle, as if it didn't need any more reminders just how exclusive and ultimately expensive the cars are.

Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin

Celebrated as both a racing legend and an unassuming style icon in his time, Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin was a true Bentley Boy at heart.

His love for the British marquee was clearly evident then with his first ever model bought out of a love of fine motoring. In time, though, Birkin's involvement with Bentley evolved into important roles in the development of a handful of Bentley models, including the 1928 Blower.

Birkin's reputation as a true motoring connoisseur lives to this day and Bentley is honoring the man with these very limited edition model.

2014 Bentley Mulsanne

As the flagship luxury sedan in the Bentley lineup, the Mulsanne holds a back seat to no one. Filled with luxury to the brim, the Mulsanne features some of the finest items you can find in a vehicle, including: iPads, coolers, luxury leather and even cabin carpet. That’s no small feat.

On top of all that, the luxury sedan has quite the power, thanks to a 6.75-liter V-8 engine that packs 505 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque. With that much horses under its hood, the Mulsanne is capable of hitting 0 to 60 mph in just 6.1 seconds with a top speed of 184 mph.