Jay, that sausage analogy was probably the most relatable piece of motoring journalism I have ever heard. As a fry up connoisseur, and an ex- breakfast chef in a hotel, I always try the sausage first for that exact reason. Skimping on the sausage is a sign the rest of the meal will be shite. I don't have luxury cars so I can't comment on the carpets being like sausages.
SuperChickenLips. re your sausage comment. As an Aussie in London pre Cvid, and about to embark on a cruise, my Full English Breakfast, was delivered by a very beautiful bored Eastern Euro (probable)->maid, with a very elderly snag. Seven hours later in Rotterdam, as we boarded I was violently ill. The doc examined the 'results' and said, "that sausage has come back to bite you." From this day on, I opt for Continental breakie. .
Delighted that you've changed your mind about this car. This is my dream car. I have driven several and loved them all. Bentley kindly invited me to the press launch of the then new GT Speed and lent me a car for the day to drive around the mountains of southern Spain. I also got driven round the Monteblanco racing circuit in the Supersport version when that was launched. Finally, I drove a friend's GT around the Essex countryside four years ago. Obviously, I haven't driven as many luxury GTs as you, but frankly I don't feel the need. This is the one for me.
ANY age before electric cars and hybrids dominate the world will always automatically be a """golden age of motoring""". But real answer is, it was the late 1960's!
Love the ol' Conti GT my dad had one of these up until recently.. he said he never had any issues with it and described the power delivery "pulled like a freight train".
I love the sausage analogy. As a biker, I frequent many cafes (used to) and I have used this analogy myself for years thinking I was the only man ever to rate his breakfast by the quality of the sausage. Never in a million years would I thought I’d be saying this about a Bentley motor! But you’re 100% correct to use the sausage in this way. The best of British, and one of the best car reviewers out there. Nice one Jay, bangers away! (Ooh, a Bentley at a Banger Race??)
Git!! I was jealous as hell the first few words of your comment, then you came back to earth like the rest of us!! Brits do the best humour, while its still legal anyway
It's strange to think that the original Conti GT was released 18 years ago. It still looks brand new. For whatever reason I've always kind of liked these. Shame that loads of footballers bought them.
Don't let that put you off. They are epic cars for the money. WGAS who bought them back in the day... You just have be prepared for expensive bills for minor issues or be prepared to go DIY.
Anybody else noticed a pattern? he reviews a car that he says maybe he didn't like before; but now that he's driven it again he realizes he was mistaken and it's really excellent. Perhaps you should consider buying one.
I think this is very very important to note, as well as the potential for electrical problems that can effectively total the car, especially the early ones.
As you can tell from my username, I am a big fan of these cars. For the most part, this is the go to the pub car, and it makes that drive feel lovely. Great review.
We ought to just take a moment to appreciate just how hard James is working to provide some fantastic and frequent content of late - round of applause please from everyone....
Thanks for another great review. I’ve had mine 4 months now and love it. You’re right, it is its own thing, built for luxuriously eating up miles and getting to your destination still feeling fresh. I think it’s one of those cars where the colour really makes a difference: I really don’t like it in some colours, looks bloated. Love mine in Moroccan blue.
I absolutely adore my first gen conti GT - I would highly recommend the celtic tuning remap, it transforms the car and makes it properly quick. I've never owned a more comfortable car.
I just visited a car show at Chillington Hall, was full of pre-2000 Classics. Had a wonderful time and really reccomend it.... and then almost as I got home, I see one of these parked up on the pavement covered in actual black velvet and had gold wheels and trim (grill, window surrounds, the lot) Knocked my great day down by a few points .
I had a first gen Continental GT and I loved it, ironically I got it because I loved the one my neighbor had, he was an NBA player. LOL. Never been in a bad Bentley yet. Might get a Bentayga one of these days now they are no longer ugly anymore.
For me driving it was like driving a car on top of another car, such was the vagueness/floatiness/weightiness of the car. I literally never took it anywhere to enjoy a drive - sold it after 3 months in 2005 !
I've got a 2004 Continental GT. It's just a marvellous bit of kit, great performance, nice thing to be in.Tech is dated, but it's easily upgraded. There's nothing I can think of that would currently tempt me to replace it.
I remember trying to race one in 2008 from the lights. I thought it would be heavy and lazy... No it wasn't. Its like a rocket launcher attached to a hippo
I shoot the inventory for our local Bentley dealership, and I'm always amazed at how well these 1st gens drive, and indeed the interiors hold up pretty well, even compared to the latest generation. The only thing I hate about it: that front.
I have a 09 Speed in red. It's a fantastic car. The transmission is not sluggish. There are 'Normal' and 'Sport' modes. Hit the throttle and the low down torque grunt turns into a rocket going off. Been super reliable and regular service costs as much as an Audi.
i think the first decade of this century is proving to be a sweet spot in the many compromises involved in automobile reliability, styling and performance.
Great review Jay! Still like the look of the gen 1 car over the latest model, on the outside. The new model has too much grill and the lights look all wrong. These gen 1 cars are a bargain, as long as you are ready for the costs when something trival goes wrong, but if you're handy with the spanners and pick VW/Audi parts instead of Bentley, they are not that bad.
Yes its a spectacular car, yes like all cars it has some faults, but over all I love mine, its just a great place to be, inside a Bentley Continental gt. Oh and not ever a conti...
Smashing big motors as far as I’m concerned. Unfortunately, the car will use any excuse to get the engine out which makes every bill start with a 2 and end in a thousand from what I can see
I never liked the look of the first gen GT's, the most recent generation look so much better to the point that I'd genuinely buy one, especially the new Speed..
I can quite understand why you didn't like it at first. I've spent the last 2 years fixing and getting to know mine but am finally overjoyed with the experience. Actually I think the fact I had to fix so many issues has meant that she is probably the car I know and trust her more than any other car. It's been quite a journey but I think it makes for interesting viewing. I never understood why so many people don't like the rear view though, I think it's spectacular! Great video :)
Don’t love the looks to be honest, but this car is seriously legit. I don’t think they’ll ever gain value as they’re far too common but also they’re probably not going to depreciate that much more as well
@@Beemer760 Nah they really are not, especially here in the US market these kinds of cars are usually less expensive to insure than a Golf R for example ( I have a Merc, a Tesla, and an R on my insurance and the R is the most expensive).
As someone who has owned expensive cars all their life and had one of these when they first came out my advice to anyone who is looking to buy a car like this is if you can't afford it new, you probably can't afford it used and out of warranty. I still remember when I had my first S-Class and it was in getting serviced and someone had an SL600 with the V12 in there at the same time and it needed a new engine and the tech said it was going to be like $50,000 for a new one, yeah... I never own these cars out of warranty, never. I have never seen an invoice for any of my S-Classes that was under $700.
Recognising the road James was on got me really excited as I know those roads very well and drove them every day for nearly 4 years 👍🏻😁….great roads and brilliant for a capable driving machine 😊😊
It's a little ironic that only in your recent upload you said that you had lost faith in conventional journalists for changing their opinions on cars. I understand and agree with your point re footballers.
Dear James, If you ever have the chance to do so; Please try a Gen.I Supersports* (2 seater version) *Preferably one that has been fitted with Michelin PS4S or Michelin Supersport, rather than its' original run-flat P-Zero.
I've always had a soft spot for the facelifted first-gen Conti GT from 2010-2016. Bentley just sharpened the details a little bit but the result is a more cohesive, even more stunning-looking thing. I'd like the second facelift V8S or the GT Speed, please. Or the Supersport, I'm not picky.
Funny isn’t it, because I actually prefer the looks of the original over the the facelift or new version. Not long until it shakes the footballer reputation 🤞🏽 it’s really a very elegant vehicle
Having spent half a lifetime driving 5 and 6 litre V8s, I spent an hour driving a series one and never noticed the slightest turbo lag. That's because the initial grunt came from the 6 litre engine.
I've seen a RUclips video by a chap who bought a 'cheap' Conti GT and discovered that all the so-called VAG parts had been refashioned by Bentley so that you had to buy replacement bits at exorbitant prices through them, so together with the dipsomanic W12 engine, I'm not sure there is a cheap way to run a Bentley.
The Continental GT has a reputation for strength and reliability. Imagine buying a secondhand supercar. It's good to know the first year's repair bills will be smaller than the cost of buying the car itself.
FYI I am looking at one of these currently but sadly we are taxed heavily for bigger capacity engined cars hence a bit reluctant to buy though the pricing is more than reasonable now…:-p
Just in the process of buying a baby Bentley then, Audi TT vr3.2. Give a shout if you want to review it. Buying it as want something n/a as everything has gone over to turbocharged, hybrid or electric
First off, this is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, despite the Mk3's bastardization of the front fascia. Mk2 is the best-looking, where the hood is most proportionate to the rest of the car (this video features Mk1, before the full development of its stately Roman nose) and that mean, retro-inspired grill with those perfectly positioned headlights retains its pugnacious elegance. Our host here initially makes the same mistake I did when first acquiring my 2014 W12. This is not a comfy Bentley, and should not be driven as such. The suspension settings default to the second softest option out of four, which is still quite sporting. The car works best here. Go softer, and it swims a bit. Harder should be reserved for only the silkiest asphalt. Having discovered the true character of the car, I only opt for automatic when I am distracted, drinking coffee, or stuck in traffic. At all other times the experience of harnessing that gargantuan, 620HP W12 Twin-turbo is a privilege only a fool would take for granted. The paddles are great but the stick-shifter is truly magnificent. It feels as solid as shaking hands with a statue. Fair enough, the gearbox is not world-class, but downshifts are as near-instant as makes no difference, while upshifts benefit greatly from a well-timed lift off the throttle. The steering is not as crisp as supercars half its weight, but it rails through corners like an ice-cube sliding across a counter-top. You feel yourself hovering above the road like Marty McFly, while somehow registering the contours of the road like a sonogram. Should not be possible. Despite its gigantic proportions, this is a driver's car, albeit an anachronistic one. It is a very unique vehicle, not to be missed by those who feel drawn to its beauty. Simply keep in mind that this is not an enormously powerful luxury coupe, but instead an enormously luxurious supercar. It is Daniel Craig, not Sean Connery. Ultimately, this car delivers character like Shakespeare. There is a soul under all that beautiful bullhide, but you must be patient in its discovery. (Pro-tip: The wood steering wheel becomes unmanageably slick. Opt for leather or buy a nice pair of driving gloves.)
Had mine 3 months. 2015 V8S, huge spec, Ceramic brakes, sounds way better than this, has tauter suspension (though still comfy) and better looks. Just had it serviced. The active cruise had stopped working - £3.5K to sort out! Wheel bearing about £1K. Only done 34K miles. Still utterly love it though! I knew what I was in for. Have actually managed 30mpg on a steady motorway run.
I have a gt convertible. I didn’t like the looks much either but It has really grown on me and looks more classy as it ages. I have had a Aston vantage and almost twice bought a Maserati grantirismo. The Bentley although the least attractive of the 3 is hands down the best driver. Also Bentleys outdated infotainment is still 10 years ahead of Maserati or Aston It’s also all wheel drive. My only complaint like every other owner is keeping the batteries charged between drives
At least Jay has admitted that he got it wrong on his first review. The carpets like a sausage is one that i have never heard before. As for desirability of the car, all i can say, that even as good as it is for around £30k used, the exterior looks and cramped cabin are not for me. The strange mix of high quality leather (but not in beige!) and VW trim and switches remind me of the Jaguar X type with an upmarket interior, the combination just makes the end product look like they failed to go the extra mile to use better quality fittings.
Jay, that sausage analogy was probably the most relatable piece of motoring journalism I have ever heard. As a fry up connoisseur, and an ex- breakfast chef in a hotel, I always try the sausage first for that exact reason. Skimping on the sausage is a sign the rest of the meal will be shite. I don't have luxury cars so I can't comment on the carpets being like sausages.
SuperChickenLips. re your sausage comment. As an Aussie in London pre Cvid, and about to embark on a cruise, my Full English Breakfast, was delivered by a very beautiful bored Eastern Euro (probable)->maid, with a very elderly snag. Seven hours later in Rotterdam, as we boarded I was violently ill. The doc examined the 'results' and said, "that sausage has come back to bite you." From this day on, I opt for Continental breakie. .
I luiaghed purely for the sausage analogy
As an ex-Chef I 100% agree.
I judge a restaurant by their chicken sandwich, if they can't make that right they can't make anything right.
Excellent analogy
Delighted that you've changed your mind about this car. This is my dream car. I have driven several and loved them all. Bentley kindly invited me to the press launch of the then new GT Speed and lent me a car for the day to drive around the mountains of southern Spain. I also got driven round the Monteblanco racing circuit in the Supersport version when that was launched. Finally, I drove a friend's GT around the Essex countryside four years ago. Obviously, I haven't driven as many luxury GTs as you, but frankly I don't feel the need. This is the one for me.
Agreed is my dream car also
"Nobody likes a substandard sausage" That's what she said 😟
@@sambagogo777 It's a joke. Thankfully not an actual experience 🙂
Wa-Hey!
@@sambagogo777 Wa-haha-Hey!
Who knew we'd be looking back at the early to mid 2000 as the gold age of motoring 😂
Odd, I know. To me the golden age ended about 2010.
ANY age before electric cars and hybrids dominate the world will always automatically be a """golden age of motoring""". But real answer is, it was the late 1960's!
We will look back on right now as the golden age in 10-20 years.
@@Aron-ru5zk I doubt it. All is going to shit at the moment thanks to electric cars.
@@Gemini_0815 right now we have the peak of ICE technology, this is as far as ICE will ever go and it’s coming to an end in the next few years.
Love the ol' Conti GT my dad had one of these up until recently.. he said he never had any issues with it and described the power delivery "pulled like a freight train".
I love the sausage analogy. As a biker, I frequent many cafes (used to) and I have used this analogy myself for years thinking I was the only man ever to rate his breakfast by the quality of the sausage. Never in a million years would I thought I’d be saying this about a Bentley motor! But you’re 100% correct to use the sausage in this way. The best of British, and one of the best car reviewers out there. Nice one Jay, bangers away! (Ooh, a Bentley at a Banger Race??)
When you put your foot down it sounded like a spitfire waking up, lovely, 😁👍
I had a couple of first generation Continental GT diecasts made by Matchbox.
You got me in the first half 😂
Git!! I was jealous as hell the first few words of your comment, then you came back to earth like the rest of us!! Brits do the best humour, while its still legal anyway
But how was the carpeting???
@@guardrailbiter I didn’t get into one.
@@DaveDVideoMaker
Did you at least _try?_
The new one looks staggeringly good in person.
It's a bit over scaled but it's as elegant as a Bentley and as beautiful as a TVR
Hate the back of the new one. Way to KIA-ish.
@@rv9990 Really? I think it looks pretty well proportioned
@@MagnumTriumph It is. Just don't like the Chinese eyes looking brake lights. Liked the Gen 2 ones better.
It's strange to think that the original Conti GT was released 18 years ago. It still looks brand new.
For whatever reason I've always kind of liked these. Shame that loads of footballers bought them.
Don't let that put you off. They are epic cars for the money. WGAS who bought them back in the day... You just have be prepared for expensive bills for minor issues or be prepared to go DIY.
Anybody else noticed a pattern? he reviews a car that he says maybe he didn't like before; but now that he's driven it again he realizes he was mistaken and it's really excellent. Perhaps you should consider buying one.
He's coming of age :)
Ok well u didn't watch..it's an 09 Speed..if it was an 05 then I'd say yes you are 4 sure right..so it's a Clickbait which is unusual 4him
Well he’s driving a different version here open your ears boy
The fact that a number of minor mechanical fixes require the engine out, I could never buy one, but I've always been a fan.
I think this is very very important to note, as well as the potential for electrical problems that can effectively total the car, especially the early ones.
Owned a 2004 continental for 3 years, bought with 35k miles on, 600 quid service, nothing else except tyres, every mile is a smile
I think it looks great. Very distinctive and unique on its own. Unlike any German or Italian car of this price range. Perfect for what it represents.
As you can tell from my username, I am a big fan of these cars. For the most part, this is the go to the pub car, and it makes that drive feel lovely. Great review.
We ought to just take a moment to appreciate just how hard James is working to provide some fantastic and frequent content of late - round of applause please from everyone....
I look forward to the next episode of 'cars you thought were bad but are actually quite good'!
pretty much all cars he hate xD are great.
I agree with you about the gen 1 Conti, but do please try a Gen 1 Bentley Contiental Supersports and you will discover a brilliant driver's car.
Thanks for another great review. I’ve had mine 4 months now and love it. You’re right, it is its own thing, built for luxuriously eating up miles and getting to your destination still feeling fresh.
I think it’s one of those cars where the colour really makes a difference: I really don’t like it in some colours, looks bloated. Love mine in Moroccan blue.
Sounds like a good colour for it
This was a review I was waiting for! Thank you.
I absolutely adore my first gen conti GT - I would highly recommend the celtic tuning remap, it transforms the car and makes it properly quick. I've never owned a more comfortable car.
Engine temp - always 90, Air con - probably leaking!
I just visited a car show at Chillington Hall, was full of pre-2000 Classics.
Had a wonderful time and really reccomend it.... and then almost as I got home, I see one of these parked up on the pavement covered in actual black velvet and had gold wheels and trim (grill, window surrounds, the lot)
Knocked my great day down by a few points .
I had a first gen Continental GT and I loved it, ironically I got it because I loved the one my neighbor had, he was an NBA player. LOL. Never been in a bad Bentley yet. Might get a Bentayga one of these days now they are no longer ugly anymore.
If it’s got turbo lag, then I want one.
Why?
@@SirMrShanks turbo lag is great. Feeling when that boost kicks in
This is one of my favourite comments! 😂. My dad is the same, he loves the theatre of waiting for the turbo haha!
As a fun sports car? Sure I agree completely. But having turbo lag in a regular daily car, I HATE it lol
the second I heard that "sausage" comment--straight to the comments...
I won one in a raffle comp a couple of yrs ago..Gt speed black on black tuned to 700bhp I'd describe it as a beast in a tuxedo.
i've noticed, People tend to like expensive cars more once they've depreciated down to their income level
For me driving it was like driving a car on top of another car, such was the vagueness/floatiness/weightiness of the car. I literally never took it anywhere to enjoy a drive - sold it after 3 months in 2005 !
I drove one of this before,and I really like it. Acceleration felt like a jet taking off.
I've got a 2004 Continental GT. It's just a marvellous bit of kit, great performance, nice thing to be in.Tech is dated, but it's easily upgraded. There's nothing I can think of that would currently tempt me to replace it.
I'll never forget seeing one just Take off from the lights...Imense !!
I remember trying to race one in 2008 from the lights. I thought it would be heavy and lazy... No it wasn't. Its like a rocket launcher attached to a hippo
I shoot the inventory for our local Bentley dealership, and I'm always amazed at how well these 1st gens drive, and indeed the interiors hold up pretty well, even compared to the latest generation. The only thing I hate about it: that front.
I have a 09 Speed in red. It's a fantastic car. The transmission is not sluggish. There are 'Normal' and 'Sport' modes. Hit the throttle and the low down torque grunt turns into a rocket going off. Been super reliable and regular service costs as much as an Audi.
i think the first decade of this century is proving to be a sweet spot in the many compromises involved in automobile reliability, styling and performance.
Awesome to see a video on this, I've lusted after this realistic dream car for YEARS....!!
The sound of one at full noise flying over Mt Panorama is epic!
Intuitive,inspiring,imperious......both the car and narration🙏
Great review Jay! Still like the look of the gen 1 car over the latest model, on the outside. The new model has too much grill and the lights look all wrong. These gen 1 cars are a bargain, as long as you are ready for the costs when something trival goes wrong, but if you're handy with the spanners and pick VW/Audi parts instead of Bentley, they are not that bad.
Yes its a spectacular car, yes like all cars it has some faults, but over all I love mine, its just a great place to be, inside a Bentley Continental gt. Oh and not ever a conti...
Smashing big motors as far as I’m concerned. Unfortunately, the car will use any excuse to get the engine out which makes every bill start with a 2 and end in a thousand from what I can see
I never liked the look of the first gen GT's, the most recent generation look so much better to the point that I'd genuinely buy one, especially the new Speed..
I can quite understand why you didn't like it at first. I've spent the last 2 years fixing and getting to know mine but am finally overjoyed with the experience. Actually I think the fact I had to fix so many issues has meant that she is probably the car I know and trust her more than any other car. It's been quite a journey but I think it makes for interesting viewing.
I never understood why so many people don't like the rear view though, I think it's spectacular! Great video :)
10:18 there are Bentleys that have failure on the start/stop button, so its handy you can put the key in there and start it hehehe
10:19 Obviously I have no idea about Bentleys... In the Clio 197 it would re-charge the key fob battery.
These cars are getting better and better looking by the day , they’re going to get snapped up and put in garages.
Don’t love the looks to be honest, but this car is seriously legit. I don’t think they’ll ever gain value as they’re far too common but also they’re probably not going to depreciate that much more as well
yes they will because they are so expensive to tax, fuel,, insure and maintain they're best left in museums
@@Beemer760 Nah they really are not, especially here in the US market these kinds of cars are usually less expensive to insure than a Golf R for example ( I have a Merc, a Tesla, and an R on my insurance and the R is the most expensive).
@@Beemer760 maybe , just depends on your own personal circumstances and priorities.
As someone who has owned expensive cars all their life and had one of these when they first came out my advice to anyone who is looking to buy a car like this is if you can't afford it new, you probably can't afford it used and out of warranty. I still remember when I had my first S-Class and it was in getting serviced and someone had an SL600 with the V12 in there at the same time and it needed a new engine and the tech said it was going to be like $50,000 for a new one, yeah... I never own these cars out of warranty, never. I have never seen an invoice for any of my S-Classes that was under $700.
Recognising the road James was on got me really excited as I know those roads very well and drove them every day for nearly 4 years 👍🏻😁….great roads and brilliant for a capable driving machine 😊😊
It's a little ironic that only in your recent upload you said that you had lost faith in conventional journalists for changing their opinions on cars. I understand and agree with your point re footballers.
My favourite is the first gen Speed. Still a great looking car 😎
Dear James,
If you ever have the chance to do so;
Please try a Gen.I Supersports* (2 seater version)
*Preferably one that has been fitted with Michelin PS4S or Michelin Supersport, rather than its' original run-flat P-Zero.
You don't even have to get over the older infotainment - upgrades to a modern system can be had.
That reg is amazing 😂
I always had you pegged as a sausage guy!
Love your vids jay nice one
Quality! Tips on choosing a good car and an English breakfast! 😁
I've always had a soft spot for the facelifted first-gen Conti GT from 2010-2016. Bentley just sharpened the details a little bit but the result is a more cohesive, even more stunning-looking thing. I'd like the second facelift V8S or the GT Speed, please. Or the Supersport, I'm not picky.
"Nobody likes a substandard sausage" 😂
But cool review. I've always liked the look of the continental gt.. its just waaayyy too big.
Love the reg number!!
Funny isn’t it, because I actually prefer the looks of the original over the the facelift or new version.
Not long until it shakes the footballer reputation 🤞🏽 it’s really a very elegant vehicle
you should see if you can get a normal old contental to review, seeing that are around 50% of the price of the GTs
Serious grunt could be tempting for sure, just keep it in comfy and auto.
Nice car - and nice shirt 🤙🏻
Do I hear a misfire during full acceleration??
Glad you reviewed one!
I dont think so, might be an oddity of the fact the exhaust cam only picks up one side
@@JayEmmOnCars Thanks for the reply
Good point Mate!
You should be on top gear with that presentation nice one 👏🏻
Having spent half a lifetime driving 5 and 6 litre V8s, I spent an hour driving a series one and never noticed the slightest turbo lag. That's because the initial grunt came from the 6 litre engine.
Had the pleasure of been a passenger in the first gen when they came out. Blistering performance and luxury. Extremely thirsty car though.
No one like a substandard sausage!! 🤣🤣
..or substandard carpet.
Full English assessment - perfect - exactly the same judgement … bacon next… lol
In the real world, this is probably one of the fastest cars for the money.
I guess it's the old adage.... never judge a book by its cover. Enjoyed the video, Often thought about buying one of those, now maybe I will.
Check the black pudding first (if you opt for it, which you should).
The GT's grown into its own skin. It was a footballer's car as you said. Now it's the new one.
Great car, love these w12 continental
I was struck by the quietness inside - making the video sound quality very good.
this is a future classic.... even with its flaws
James, I have the 4 door version, meant to be a more Bentley experience. Let me know if you want to review it.
That number plate is appalling 😂
My thought exactly
Atrocious.
it appeals to my inner child - hats off
What's it supposed to even say
@@visionist7 poverty ( i think )
I'm taking the California,Jay.
Love the number plate Povity 😂
I tell you I cannot work out how to use paddle gear shifts up down what ever i crunch gears like I'm eating cornflakes. i don't use them at all
I've seen a RUclips video by a chap who bought a 'cheap' Conti GT and discovered that all the so-called VAG parts had been refashioned by Bentley so that you had to buy replacement bits at exorbitant prices through them, so together with the dipsomanic W12 engine, I'm not sure there is a cheap way to run a Bentley.
The Continental GT has a reputation for strength and reliability.
Imagine buying a secondhand supercar.
It's good to know the first year's repair bills will be smaller than the cost of buying the car itself.
Always been one of my favorite cars
03:20 Look at all that dust!!
Thanks J!
FYI I am looking at one of these currently but sadly we are taxed heavily for bigger capacity engined cars hence a bit reluctant to buy though the pricing is more than reasonable now…:-p
I really like the w12 engine on this thing
Hello Jay, I like to hear your opinion on the VW phaeton.
Most British thing ever uttered by a British motor journalist. "Nobody likes a sub standard sausage". You beat James May.
Just in the process of buying a baby Bentley then, Audi TT vr3.2. Give a shout if you want to review it. Buying it as want something n/a as everything has gone over to turbocharged, hybrid or electric
First off, this is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, despite the Mk3's bastardization of the front fascia. Mk2 is the best-looking, where the hood is most proportionate to the rest of the car (this video features Mk1, before the full development of its stately Roman nose) and that mean, retro-inspired grill with those perfectly positioned headlights retains its pugnacious elegance. Our host here initially makes the same mistake I did when first acquiring my 2014 W12. This is not a comfy Bentley, and should not be driven as such. The suspension settings default to the second softest option out of four, which is still quite sporting. The car works best here. Go softer, and it swims a bit. Harder should be reserved for only the silkiest asphalt. Having discovered the true character of the car, I only opt for automatic when I am distracted, drinking coffee, or stuck in traffic. At all other times the experience of harnessing that gargantuan, 620HP W12 Twin-turbo is a privilege only a fool would take for granted. The paddles are great but the stick-shifter is truly magnificent. It feels as solid as shaking hands with a statue. Fair enough, the gearbox is not world-class, but downshifts are as near-instant as makes no difference, while upshifts benefit greatly from a well-timed lift off the throttle. The steering is not as crisp as supercars half its weight, but it rails through corners like an ice-cube sliding across a counter-top. You feel yourself hovering above the road like Marty McFly, while somehow registering the contours of the road like a sonogram. Should not be possible. Despite its gigantic proportions, this is a driver's car, albeit an anachronistic one. It is a very unique vehicle, not to be missed by those who feel drawn to its beauty. Simply keep in mind that this is not an enormously powerful luxury coupe, but instead an enormously luxurious supercar. It is Daniel Craig, not Sean Connery. Ultimately, this car delivers character like Shakespeare. There is a soul under all that beautiful bullhide, but you must be patient in its discovery. (Pro-tip: The wood steering wheel becomes unmanageably slick. Opt for leather or buy a nice pair of driving gloves.)
Had mine 3 months. 2015 V8S, huge spec, Ceramic brakes, sounds way better than this, has tauter suspension (though still comfy) and better looks. Just had it serviced. The active cruise had stopped working - £3.5K to sort out! Wheel bearing about £1K. Only done 34K miles. Still utterly love it though! I knew what I was in for. Have actually managed 30mpg on a steady motorway run.
A grand for a wheel bearing? My wallet just let out a cry in sympathy pain.
@@FRU.No.1 Not as much as the fix for the active cruise. Which, 2 weeks later, has stopped working again. Oh dear.......
Reg plate 'POV ITY' ;-)
Not that I'll ever have the money to buy one. But I do like the styling.
I love the looks
James, your look screams Bentley bloke. 😂
He does actually match the car.
I have a gt convertible. I didn’t like the looks much either but It has really grown on me and looks more classy as it ages. I have had a Aston vantage and almost twice bought a Maserati grantirismo. The Bentley although the least attractive of the 3 is hands down the best driver. Also Bentleys outdated infotainment is still 10 years ahead of Maserati or Aston
It’s also all wheel drive. My only complaint like every other owner is keeping the batteries charged between drives
This is one of my dreamcars to drive.
Why didn't you get one of these instead of the Maserati?
At least Jay has admitted that he got it wrong on his first review.
The carpets like a sausage is one that i have never heard before.
As for desirability of the car, all i can say, that even as good as it is
for around £30k used, the exterior looks and cramped cabin are
not for me.
The strange mix of high quality leather (but not in beige!) and VW
trim and switches remind me of the Jaguar X type with an upmarket
interior, the combination just makes the end product look like they
failed to go the extra mile to use better quality fittings.
Saw the thumbnail text and thought he came to his senses about the lotus Emira.
"I always try the sausage first" - Yes we've heard that about you......
Is that vanity plate trying to say ‘poverty’? 😆