I’ve always loved the BMW, especially the old 6 series and the later 8 series saloons. They always told a story of style, speed and good taste to me.
I never imaged ever owning a first-generation Bentley Continental GT, a luxury grand tourer introduced in 2003. Combining elegant British styling with a powerful 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged W12 engine, it offers impressive performance, comfort and prestige.
When I looked into the price of a baby Bentley the numbers actually surprised me compared to other luxury options.
Price: New vs Second-hand
When launched, the Continental GT cost approximately £110,000 new in the UK. Today, early examples with around 100,000 miles can typically be found for approximately £10,000–£20,000, depending on condition, specification and service history. This makes it an affordable way to experience a car that was once reserved for wealthy buyers.
However, the low purchase price does not mean cheap ownership. A neglected example can quickly become an expensive mistake.
Who Is the Car Aimed At?
The Continental GT appeals to both men and women who value luxury, performance and status. Its bold styling and powerful engine attract enthusiasts, professionals and business owners, while its comfortable interior makes it suitable for long journeys. Ultimately, its appeal depends on personal taste and budget rather than gender.
Production and Manufacturing
Bentley manufactures its cars in Crewe, Cheshire, England. The Continental GT helped transform the brand after its introduction in 2003. Bentley reported producing its 80,000th Continental GT in 2021, with production historically around 5,000 examples annually, although output varies. The original generation is no longer in production.
Annual Running Costs
Despite its second-hand price, the Continental GT does remain an expensive car to run. Its large engine consumes considerable fuel, and specialist parts and repairs can be costly. For eco warriors it doesn’t check any boxes, more gas guzzler than green goddess.
Estimated annual costs for someone driving around 5,000 miles include:
Fuel: £1,800–£2,500
Road tax: Approximately £790, depending on the vehicle and current rates
Insurance: £2,000–£3,000 or more depending on your no claims and driving history.
Servicing and repairs: £1,800–£4,000, allowing for routine maintenance and a repair reserve
Overall, budgeting around £5,000–£10,000 annually is sensible, excluding finance and depreciation. Major mechanical problems could push costs significantly higher. Smart buyers should obtain an insurance quote and arrange a specialist inspection before purchasing an older Bentley.
Is It a Good Investment?
The Continental GT offers an appealing combination of prestige, performance and relatively low purchase cost. However, it should not automatically be considered an investment. Repair bills, depreciation and running costs can easily outweigh any increase in resale value. Like other luxury purchases, initial investment is only the tip of the iceberg.
A well-maintained example with a complete service history and original components may retain its value better than a neglected car. Nevertheless, future appreciation is never guaranteed.
The Bentley Continental GT is an attractive option for buyers seeking luxury motoring at a fraction of its original price. An example costing £12,000–£18,000 can deliver an impressive driving experience, but ownership requires a realistic budget and a financial safety net.
I haven’t discounted my long term love affair with BMW. If it’s going to be a Bentley I’d buy one for the enjoyment, performance and prestige—not to make money. Choosing the best-maintained car I can afford, rather than the cheapest available would always be the way to go.
Only with careful selection and responsible budgeting, can any luxury purchase be a rewarding luxury purchase, but without sufficient funds for maintenance, i know a car like Bentley could quickly become a financial burden.