The Bentley Continental is a symbol of opulent performance, blending handcrafted luxury with exhilarating power. Choosing the right year, however, is crucial to ensuring a rewarding ownership experience. This guide delves into the best and worst years for the Bentley Continental, helping you navigate the nuances of each model and make an informed decision, whether you're seeking a classic grand tourer or a modern powerhouse.
Bentley Continental: A Year-by-Year Overview
This table provides a summary of the Bentley Continental's evolution, highlighting key features, common issues, and overall recommendations for each generation and specific model year. It's a starting point for your research; further investigation into specific examples is always advised.
| Model Year/Generation | Key Features/Changes | Potential Issues/Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2003-2011 (Continental GT/GTC/Flying Spur - First Generation) | W12 engine, all-wheel drive, air suspension, luxurious interior. | Early models (2003-2006) can suffer from electronic gremlins, air suspension failures, and high maintenance costs. Check for proper service history and evidence of preventative maintenance on the air suspension and hydraulic systems. |
| 2007-2011 (Continental GT Speed) | Uprated W12 engine, sportier suspension, unique styling. | Similar issues to the standard GT but with increased performance demands, potentially leading to accelerated wear and tear. Ensure thorough inspection of the engine and drivetrain. |
| 2012-2018 (Continental GT/GTC/Flying Spur - Second Generation) | Revised styling, improved interior, updated infotainment, introduction of V8 engine. | More reliable than the first generation, but still requires meticulous maintenance. V8 models offer a more accessible entry point and potentially lower running costs. Pay attention to the condition of the leather and wood trim, as wear and tear can be costly to rectify. |
| 2014-2018 (Continental GT V8 S) | Higher-output V8 engine, sharpened handling. | Similar considerations to the standard V8, but with increased performance demands. Check for signs of aggressive driving. |
| 2016-2018 (Continental GT Speed) | Most powerful version of the second-generation, refined styling. | Highest performance of the second generation, requiring careful maintenance and inspection. Ensure proper cooling system function. |
| 2019-Present (Continental GT/GTC - Third Generation) | New platform, redesigned interior, advanced technology, improved performance. | Generally more reliable than previous generations. Early models may have software glitches that should be addressed by dealership updates. Consider extended warranty options for peace of mind. |
| 2020-Present (Flying Spur - Third Generation) | Redesigned Flying Spur based on the third-generation Continental GT platform. | Similar considerations to the third-generation Continental GT. Focus on ensuring all electronic features are functioning correctly. |
| 2022-Present (Continental GT Speed) | Enhanced performance and handling, distinctive styling. | Top-of-the-line performance; ensure proper maintenance and check for any signs of excessive wear. |
Detailed Explanations
2003-2011 (Continental GT/GTC/Flying Spur - First Generation): The inaugural Continental GT marked Bentley's return to the grand touring market under Volkswagen ownership. Powered by a potent W12 engine and featuring all-wheel drive, it offered a blend of luxury and performance. However, early models are known for electronic issues, air suspension problems, and substantial maintenance costs, demanding careful pre-purchase inspection and a comprehensive service history review.
2007-2011 (Continental GT Speed): This variant amplified the GT's performance with an uprated W12 engine and a sportier suspension setup, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. While offering a more engaging driving experience, the GT Speed shares the reliability concerns of the standard GT, but the increased performance may accelerate wear and tear, making a thorough inspection of the engine and drivetrain essential.
2012-2018 (Continental GT/GTC/Flying Spur - Second Generation): This generation introduced revised styling, an improved interior, and a modern infotainment system, along with the option of a V8 engine. Considered more reliable than its predecessor, it still necessitates meticulous maintenance. The V8 models present a more accessible entry point and potentially lower running costs, making them a compelling option for some buyers.
2014-2018 (Continental GT V8 S): The V8 S variant delivered a higher-output V8 engine and sharper handling characteristics, further enhancing the driving experience. Sharing similar maintenance considerations as the standard V8, it's crucial to check for signs of aggressive driving, given its performance-oriented nature.
2016-2018 (Continental GT Speed): Representing the pinnacle of performance within the second generation, the GT Speed boasted the most powerful iteration of the W12 engine and refined styling. Its high performance demands careful maintenance and thorough inspection, particularly focusing on ensuring proper cooling system function to prevent overheating.
2019-Present (Continental GT/GTC - Third Generation): This generation marked a significant leap forward, built on a new platform and featuring a redesigned interior, advanced technology, and improved performance. Generally considered more reliable than previous generations, early models might exhibit software glitches that should be addressed through dealership updates. An extended warranty can offer added peace of mind.
2020-Present (Flying Spur - Third Generation): The redesigned Flying Spur, based on the third-generation Continental GT platform, offers similar improvements in technology and refinement. Prospective buyers should focus on verifying the correct functioning of all electronic features to ensure a seamless and enjoyable ownership experience.
2022-Present (Continental GT Speed): This model represents the pinnacle of performance within the current generation, boasting enhanced handling and distinctive styling. Due to its top-tier performance, it's crucial to ensure proper maintenance is followed and to check for any signs of excessive wear, particularly in the drivetrain and suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Bentley Continental generation is the most reliable? The third-generation (2019-present) is generally considered the most reliable due to its new platform and updated technology. However, even these models benefit from regular maintenance.
Are V8 Continental models more reliable than W12 models? Potentially, yes. The V8 engines are generally less complex and stressed than the W12, potentially leading to lower maintenance costs and increased reliability, although this is not guaranteed.
What are the most common problems with early Continental GT models? Common issues include electronic gremlins, air suspension failures, hydraulic system issues, and high maintenance costs. A pre-purchase inspection is crucial.
How much does it cost to maintain a Bentley Continental? Maintenance costs can be substantial, ranging from several thousand dollars annually for routine servicing to significantly more for major repairs. Factor this into your budget.
Should I buy a Continental GT with high mileage? It depends on the service history and condition. A well-maintained high-mileage example might be a good value, but be prepared for potential maintenance costs.
Is an extended warranty worth it for a Bentley Continental? For older models or those with complex systems, an extended warranty can provide peace of mind and protect against unexpected repair costs.
What should I look for when buying a used Bentley Continental? Check for a comprehensive service history, evidence of regular maintenance, and the condition of the interior and exterior. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Bentley mechanic is highly recommended.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Bentley Continental involves careful consideration of your budget, desired performance, and tolerance for potential maintenance costs. While the early first-generation models offer an entry point into the brand, they come with inherent risks. Later second-generation models, particularly the V8 variants, offer a better balance of performance and reliability. The third-generation models represent the most technologically advanced and generally reliable option, though they come at a premium. Ultimately, thorough research, a pre-purchase inspection, and a realistic understanding of ownership costs are crucial for a satisfying Bentley Continental experience.