Bentley Continental GT: A Modern Classic's Secondhand Story

Daily Car

03/03/2026

The Bentley Continental GT, launched in 2003, marked a pivotal moment for the British marque. As the first model developed under Volkswagen Group ownership, it combined traditional Bentley luxury with modern engineering. Originally priced at £110,000, early examples can now be found on the used market for as little as £9,000, presenting a unique ownership proposition.

Powertrain and Performance

At the heart of the Continental GT is a 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine. This configuration, which essentially combines two V6 engines on a single crankshaft, produces 552 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite a substantial kerb weight of 2,385 kg, the powertrain enables the grand tourer to accelerate rapidly. This performance comes at a cost, with official fuel consumption figures around 13.9 miles per gallon, resulting in a real-world range of approximately 275 miles on a full tank.

Design and Practicality

Upon its release, the Continental GT's exterior design was considered bold by some. Today, its dimensions—4.8 meters in length and under 2.0 meters in width—are comparable to a large modern sedan, allowing it to fit in standard parking spaces. The interior showcases the brand's commitment to craftsmanship, featuring extensive use of high-quality leather and authentic wood or metal trims. While the front seats offer comfort, the rear seating is limited in space. A notable sign of its age is the infotainment system, which lacks the features and responsiveness of contemporary units.

Engineering and Platform

The vehicle's accessible launch price was made possible through platform sharing within the Volkswagen Group. The Continental GT is built on a chassis architecture also used for the Volkswagen Phaeton and Audi A8. This strategy provided Bentley with access to advanced all-wheel-drive systems and powertrain technology while benefiting from economies of scale. Despite the shared underpinnings, the car's performance figures, material quality, and overall character remain distinctly aligned with Bentley's heritage.

The Used Market Perspective

The low entry price for a first-generation Continental GT is a primary attraction for many enthusiasts. However, prospective buyers must consider the total cost of ownership. While the initial purchase may be affordable, maintenance and repair costs are consistent with those of a high-performance luxury vehicle. Parts, specialized labor, and significant fuel consumption contribute to running expenses that far exceed the initial investment. A thorough vehicle inspection and a comprehensive service history are critical when evaluating a potential purchase.

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