Conti GTC model updates

[yeti]

I’m starting to look for a companion to the Vantage and a GTC fits the bill. They are astonishing value, I know costs can be crippling but sometimes we just have to roll the dice and I’m not new to this game.

I’m Mk1 certainly for the budget; the question is were there some years when things were improved? I have heard of suspension lightening / steering changes either in 2007 or 2008. I am very keen on a particular 2007 car, but for no extra money I could wait and seek out the right 2008 car if that’s when the changes were.

Visually was there a difference of this under-the-skin update..?

[RevHappy]

The 2008 mid-cycle refresh brought several notable visual, mechanical, and technology changes to the first-generation Bentley Continental GTC.
Exterior StylingRevised Grille: The central front radiator grille was redesigned to be more upright and squared-off.
Larger Intakes: The lower bumper intakes were widened to improve engine cooling.
Headlight Bezels: New chrome bezels were added around the headlights for a cleaner look. Chassis & Mechanical Improvements
Weight Reduction: Subtle engineering tweaks shaved roughly 35 kilograms off the car's weight.
Steering Upgrades: A retuned Servotronic variable-assistance power steering system improved low-speed manoeuvrability and high-speed feel.
Suspension Revisions: The air suspension and aluminium components were updated for enhanced ride comfort.
Refined Trim: Minor revisions were made to the analog centre dash clock, driver information display, and Bluetooth software

[RevHappy]

Although a 2009 gen1 speed GTC with the updated styling and newer steering wheel makes a good case for itself, they have got to be in the late £20’s now or close to.

[Dan_H]

I think it was around 2007 that they changed the routing of the vacuum pipes, before the change it would mean the engine has to come out to fix the really brittle pipes they used, post the update I think they can be replaced by only removing or repositioning the steering rack. I can't remember when they made that change unfortunately.

[yeti]

Thanks all, so it has to be a late 2008 or 2009 onwards car to get the improvements. Bugger.

[costsmonkey]

yeti said:

Thanks all, so it has to be a late 2008 or 2009 onwards car to get the improvements. Bugger.

Don't despair, mine is a 2004 car and it is great to look at, great to drive, an amazing car for money and so far, touch wood, not expensive to maintain (although I was careful to buy one with a very good history)

I love it but also need to scratch the Aston itch, so may change it for an Aston at some point.

Good luck with your search.

Edited to add mine is a GT not a GTC

[yeti]

Fair point; it’s not going to be a 10/10 car or track day hero, just a very fast, luxurious cruiser.

I have a manual Vantage Roadster and I can’t think of anything that would be just as enjoyable to drive but provide an almost opposite experience.

And the price is right for me at the moment for a pre-2011 GTC.

You’ll love an Aston, but will find them compromised in many ways but peerless in their charm. TVRs for grown ups (ex TVR owner too).

[yeti]

RevHappy said:

Exterior StylingRevised Grille: The central front radiator grille was redesigned to be more upright and squared-off.
Larger Intakes: The lower bumper intakes were widened to improve engine cooling.
Headlight Bezels: New chrome bezels were added around the headlights for a cleaner look. Chassis & Mechanical Improvements

That’s exactly what I was looking for, thanks. I’ve got my eye in now for the updated model look.