Speculative Continental GT/GTC questions....

[tomw2000]

All, I've had a 'Bentley itch' for a while. And I'd like to know a bit more about the different models, the differences and the pros and cons.

The wife's boss has an 08 plate GTC (maybe a speed) and if this became available (he changes cars often) it might be an option. I suspect the cost might just be out of reach (having looked at classified/approved used prices), so it might be an older one we'd go for.

But also, this purchase might never happen. If it did, it would be spring next year. But it's nice to dream and a good way to fill a grey afternoon.

The car would primarilly be a garage queen, for high days and holidays - with perhaps a trip over to France once or twice a year.

So I'd really appreciate any genuine answers from people who know and/or have owned and driven these cars.

1) what is 'mulliner' spec level? what does it add?
2) GT/GT speed - what's the difference? Is it just....more.... speed?
3) What differences in spec/technology came along in more recent cars? I.e. getting a low miles 05-06 car is alot cheaper initial outlay than buying an 08 or newer car. But would I be missing much tech/spec-wise?
4) are there any common issues with these vehicles?
5) although I thought I'd never say this; I suspect it'd be the GTC we'd go for. Any issues with the hoods?
6) I'm not that bothered re running costs. I suspect it's all horrific . But any good indie garages in the gratham/lincs/notts/derby area?
7) where does the flying spur fit in to the model line up
8) any spec 'must haves'?


That's it really. Thanks in advance.

[tomw2000]

hss111 said:

coming from some one who has owned 3 bentleys. arnage, flying spur and a gtc. what sort of budget do you have and what are you expecting to spend on running it over a year? reason i ask is running and owning a bentley is like no other car.

We've already a 911, Range Rover Sport and a Audi A6. I expect the the running costs for the Bentley to be 'obscene' in comparisson. But let's say, I'd not be phased by £3-4k per year for a service, a tyre or two and some warranty. And then I'd expect insurance, tax, fuel to be on top of that. I realise this will be a costly experience.

Initial cos t- I'd expect £90-100k+ for a nice 2008 car and say, 70k+ for an 2007 car.

I just want some pointers re ownership experience and how the models compare. I'm not worried too much re the high running costs - though I'd not be buying a brand new one.

[tomw2000]

hss111 said:

ok well first of all I would like to say.... the arnage is a totally different Bentley to the flying spur and gtc. the looks, the presence of the arnage and head turning capability the arnage is second to none. major service is 3 g from Bentley , lubrication is 1g and intermediate is 1.5k if I can remember correctly. flying spur and gtc are basically the same to me. the flying spur is just a bigger version of the gtc. gtc is a true celebrity car . perfect car for the summer. drop the hood and take it out for a cruise with the mrs or even the kids. sits 4 adults comfortably. every bentley i have had have all been solid cars. have had no problems with anything braking or going wrong fingers crossed. the main things about these cars is service, petrol and insurence costs which you have pointed out.

Thanks for the reply. Good to know they're solid bits of kit - I'd have expected nothing else to be honest

All other repies welcome and I'll let you know if/when we go for it. Main bottle neck would be construction of new garage (november). But if I'm going to get a GTC, I'd like to be able to get it in the middle of winter to get best price possible - and wont do that until I've a garage to put it in

[tomw2000]

Thanks for all the info guys, appreciate it.