Picking the best model from one of the world’s most prestigious automakers comes down to a question of lifestyle.
There are a handful of names in the automotive world that conjure up images of prestige, exquisite craftsmanship, and a sublime driving experience. Bentley is one of those names. Fast British luxury cars have never gone out of style and Bentley has broadened its appeal. It now offers a variety of models, including multiple variations of the Bentayga SUV. The Flying Spur is taking over flagship duties from the Mulsanne, which is currently out of production. The Continental GT gets credit for breathing life back into the brand in 2003 and still looks good in anybody’s garage.
The automaker’s history begins with W.O. Bentley, an English engineer who made a living designing aircraft and automobile engines. He raced cars and motorcycles for fun and founded his namesake firm in 1919. His interest in racing led him and his cars to the 24 Hours of Le Mans where his team won in 1924, and from 1927 to 1930.
The Great Depression ran Bentley over financially and Rolls Royce bought the firm in 1931. In 1980, Vickers, a now-defunct British defense contractor, bought Rolls and Bentley. After years of declining sales and badge-sharing between the brands, Volkswagen came to the rescue in 1998 by buying Rolls and Bentley. VW outbid BMW, which was also vying and was already supplying engines to both brands. The rebirth began, and five years later, Bentley began turning out cars that turned heads.
Continental GT: The Turning Point
The Continental GT is a logical pick for the best used Bentley to buy based on the sales figures. It was released in 2003 and sold 107 units. In 2004, it sold nearly 7,000 units. Its sales numbers have since been challenged by some of the brand’s newer additions, but the Conti GT remains a force to be reckoned with, especially following its major update in 2018.
The present generation is available in four different configurations: a V8 coupe, V8 convertible, W12 coupe, and W12 convertible. Prices on new models range from the low to mid 200s.
Flying Spur: Fast & Luxurious
Buyers preferring a not-so sporty Bentley might consider a Flying Spur. The lineage of the model dates back to 1957 when it was conceived as a luxury ride that could hit 100 mph. The Spur is now in its third generation with models available with a V8 or a W12. Base prices range from just south of $200,000 to about $220,000. The W12 gets the Spur from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds.
Mulsanne: Enhanced Performance
In 2010, Bentley rolled out the Mulsanne. It was a car boasting upper-class comfort and a rocket under the hood. As a throwback to the company’s racing heritage, it’s named after a straightaway at Le Mans. In 2016, Bentley expanded the Mulsanne line by offering an extended wheelbase edition that was “designed for customers with a preference for being driven.”
If you’re looking for a limo ride that can compete at the local drag strip, a used Mulsanne would be the way to go.
The Mulsanne is propelled by a twin-turbocharged V8 producing over 500 hp, which translates into a limo that can go 0-60 in a bit over five seconds. Its top speed is rated at over 180 mph. The model was also offered in a “Speed” version from 2015 to 2020 that featured a sportier look and enhanced performance.
Bentayga: Bentley’s Debut SUV
In 2015, Bentley jumped into the SUV game by introducing the Bentayga. The first year it was only available with a gasoline-powered W12, which got it to 60 in four seconds. In 2016, a diesel version came online powered by a 4L, 32-valve plant that provided extended driving range and better fuel efficiency.
From 2017-2018, the firm sold a limited number of Bentayga Mulliner versions of the car, which upped the luxury by including massaging seats and an onboard champagne cooler complete with flutes.
If you want the distinctive look that helped turn around the franchise & don’t mind being mistaken for a hedge fund manager, get yourself a Continental GT.
In 2018, the line was expanded again with the Bentayga V8 packages that offered interior finishes made from carbon fiber and updated onboard technology.
Also that year, the Bentayga debuted a plug-in hybrid that combined a turbocharged V6 with an electric motor that gets the buggy from 0-60 in 5.2 seconds. In 2019, a “Speed” version of the Bentayga, packaged with the Mulliner Driving Specification, clocked a top speed of 190 mph.
Finding the Right Bentley
Assuming money isn’t an impediment, Bentley’s models are well segmented. If you’re looking for a limo ride that can compete at the local drag strip, a used Mulsanne would be the way to go. Values on used Mulsannes may go up as it moves out of production and sedan lovers move to the Flying Spur.
If you want the distinctive look that helped turn around the franchise and don’t mind being mistaken for a hedge fund manager or a professional athlete, get yourself a Continental GT. And if you want an SUV, pick a varietal off the Bentayga vine.
Known Mechanical Issues
Buying an expensive hand-built motor car doesn’t guarantee that things will never go wrong. Bentleys are sold through an exclusive dealer network, and the firm runs its own pre-owned network of contacts to match up buyers with “certified by Bentley” pre-owned cars. Despite all that, things do happen. The list of common complaints includes electric windows that emit a hissing sound prior to an eventual failure.
Air suspension systems are prone to knocking sounds and leaks that cause the front ends to drop. High-level brake lights have been known to fail, and of course, tire air pressure warning lights on the dash sometimes malfunction. If you’re considering a convertible, check out the hydraulic lines and actuators before the purchase.
Getting all that horsepower and torque to fit under the hood results in very tight engine compartments. When hoses, plugs, or pumps fail the engine may have to be removed to replace them. John Robison who runs J. E. Robison Service Company, based in Springfield, Mass., specializes in restoring and repairing Bentleys. He said, “Budget at least $10,000 to put your new purchase into shape, plus cosmetic repairs. Twenty thousand is high but not surprising. Then plan on $5,000 -$10,000 for annual upkeep cost.”
Photos: Bentley
