The first Bentley under Volkswagen ownership, the Continental GT (2003-2011), redefined the brand by blending traditional luxury with modern engineering. Originally priced at around £110,000, these cars are now available for as little as £9,000, making them an unexpectedly accessible entry point into high-end motoring.
A New Era for Bentley
In 1998, Volkswagen Group acquired Bentley with a clear goal: to revive the marque and compete directly with Rolls-Royce and Maybach. This meant modernizing production while maintaining the brand’s prestige. The Continental GT was the first major step in that direction.
By leveraging shared platforms with Audi (A8) and Volkswagen (Phaeton), Bentley achieved significant cost savings without sacrificing core values. Critics questioned whether this approach would dilute the brand, but the result was a more attainable luxury car that expanded Bentley’s customer base.
Performance and Real-World Figures
The Continental GT featured a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine producing 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This translated into impressive performance for the time: real-world fuel economy of around 13.9 mpg (approximately 275 miles per tank) from a 2,385 kg vehicle.
These numbers remain striking, especially considering the current market value. For less than £10,000, buyers get a car that once represented the pinnacle of British luxury and engineering.
Design and Interior Quality
Initially considered bold, the Continental GT’s design has aged well. At 4.8 meters long and under 2.0 meters wide, it’s surprisingly practical for everyday use, fitting easily into most parking spaces.
The interior is where the car truly shines. Upholstered in leather from approximately ten cows, the cabin exudes quality and durability. While rear passenger space is limited, the overall feel remains upscale, even by modern standards. The infotainment system is dated, but the tactile experience of the materials more than compensates.
The Continental GT successfully bridged the gap between tradition and modernity for Bentley, and today, it offers an exceptional value proposition for buyers seeking a taste of automotive extravagance.
