Bentley Continental GT (2003-present)

The Bentley Continental GT is a luxurious and high-performance vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common issues. Here are some of the most frequently reported problems:

1. **Complicated Routine Maintenance**: The engine compartment is quite compact, making routine maintenance tasks more challenging and often requiring expert mechanics.
2. **Suspension Issues**: The air suspension system can show signs of wear and tear, leading to the front part of the vehicle sitting lower than the back or producing knocking noises.
3. **Brake Light Failure**: This is a common issue, but fortunately, replacing the brake light unit is relatively straightforward.
4. **Brake Hoses Replacement**: Bentley recommends replacing the brake hoses every five years, which is more frequent than many other vehicles.
5. **Power Window Failure**: Power windows may stop working intermittently, often accompanied by a hissing sound.
6. **Electrical Problems**: Electrical issues can cause faulty icons to appear on the dashboard, requiring professional attention.

Despite these issues, the Bentley Continental GT is generally well-regarded for its reliability and performance.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Bentley Continental GT has gone through several generations and offers a variety of trim levels. Here's a brief overview:

### Generations
1. **First Generation (2003-2011)**
- **Continental GT**: The original model with a 6.0-liter W12 engine.
- **Continental GT Speed**: Introduced in 2007, featuring a more powerful version of the W12 engine.
- **Continental GT Supersports**: Launched in 2009, this was the most powerful and fastest version of the first generation.

2. **Second Generation (2011-2018)**
- **Continental GT**: Updated design and improved performance.
- **Continental GT V8**: Introduced in 2012, featuring a 4.0-liter V8 engine.
- **Continental GT Speed**: Continued with enhancements in power and performance.
- **Continental GT V8 S**: A sportier version of the V8 model.
- **Continental GT Supersports**: The ultimate performance version of the second generation.

3. **Third Generation (2018-2024)**
- **Continental GT**: Completely redesigned with a new platform and advanced technology.
- **Continental GT V8**: Continued with the V8 engine option.
- **Continental GT W12**: Featuring the latest version of the W12 engine.
- **Continental GT Speed**: The high-performance variant.
- **Continental GT Mulliner**: The most luxurious and bespoke version.

4. **Fourth Generation (2024-Present)**
- **Continental GT**: Latest design and technological advancements.
- **Continental GT V8**: Continued with the V8 engine.
- **Continental GT W12**: Featuring the latest W12 engine.
- **Continental GT Speed**: High-performance variant.
- **Continental GT Mulliner**: The pinnacle of luxury and customization.

### Trim Levels
- **Base Model**: Offers a blend of luxury and performance.
- **V8**: Features a 4.0-liter V8 engine, providing a balance of power and efficiency.
- **W12**: Equipped with a 6.0-liter W12 engine for maximum performance.
- **Speed**: High-performance variant with enhanced power and sporty features.
- **Mulliner**: The most luxurious and customizable trim, offering bespoke options and exclusive features.

The Bentley Continental GT continues to evolve, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless luxury and performance - Specs ...](https://www.autoevolution.com/bentley/continental-gt/).
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Engines
The Bentley Continental GT has seen a variety of engines and power outputs across its different generations and models. Here's a detailed overview:

### First Generation (2003-2011)
- **6.0-liter W12**:
- **Continental GT**: 552 hp
- **Continental GT Speed**: 600 hp
- **Continental GT Supersports**: 621 hp

### Second Generation (2011-2018)
- **6.0-liter W12**:
- **Continental GT**: 567 hp
- **Continental GT Speed**: 616 hp
- **Continental GT Supersports**: 700 hp
- **4.0-liter V8**:
- **Continental GT V8**: 500 hp
- **Continental GT V8 S**: 521 hp

### Third Generation (2018-2024)
- **6.0-liter W12**:
- **Continental GT**: 626 hp
- **Continental GT Speed**: 650 hp
- **4.0-liter V8**:
- **Continental GT V8**: 542 hp
- **Continental GT V8 S**: 550 hp

### Fourth Generation (2024-Present)
- **6.0-liter W12**:
- **Continental GT**: 650 hp
- **Continental GT Speed**: 671 hp
- **4.0-liter V8**:
- **Continental GT V8**: 542 hp
- **Continental GT V8 S**: 550 hp

These engines have provided the Continental GT with a range of power outputs, ensuring a blend of luxury and performance across all its models.
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Performance
The Bentley Continental GT has impressive performance across its various versions. Here's a breakdown of the expected performance for each version:

### First Generation (2003-2011)
- **Continental GT**:
- **Power**: 552 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 4.8 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 198 mph

- **Continental GT Speed**:
- **Power**: 600 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 4.3 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 202 mph

- **Continental GT Supersports**:
- **Power**: 621 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.7 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 204 mph

### Second Generation (2011-2018)
- **Continental GT**:
- **Power**: 567 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 4.4 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 198 mph

- **Continental GT V8**:
- **Power**: 500 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 4.6 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 188 mph

- **Continental GT Speed**:
- **Power**: 616 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 4.0 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 206 mph

- **Continental GT Supersports**:
- **Power**: 700 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.4 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 209 mph

### Third Generation (2018-2024)
- **Continental GT**:
- **Power**: 626 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.6 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 207 mph

- **Continental GT V8**:
- **Power**: 542 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.9 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 198 mph

- **Continental GT Speed**:
- **Power**: 650 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 208 mph

### Fourth Generation (2024-Present)
- **Continental GT**:
- **Power**: 650 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.5 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 208 mph

- **Continental GT V8**:
- **Power**: 542 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.9 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 198 mph

- **Continental GT Speed**:
- **Power**: 671 hp
- **0-60 mph**: 3.1 seconds
- **Top Speed**: 208 mph

These performance figures highlight the Continental GT's blend of luxury and high performance across its different generations and models.
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Dimensions
The Bentley Continental GT has impressive dimensions that contribute to its luxurious and sporty appearance. Here are the key dimensions for the latest model:

- **Length**: 4,850 mm
- **Width**: 1,966 mm (without mirrors)
- **Width**: 2,187 mm (with mirrors)
- **Height**: 1,405 mm
- **Wheelbase**: 2,850 mm
- **Boot Space**: 358 liters

These dimensions provide a spacious and comfortable interior while maintaining a sleek and elegant exterior design.
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Spares/Specialists NI
For locating spares for your Bentley Continental GT in the UK and Ireland, you have several options:

1. **Charles Trent**: They offer a wide range of Bentley Continental GT parts, including engines, gearboxes, and interiors. You can check their inventory [here](https://www.trents.co.uk/car-parts/makes/other-makes/bentley/bentley-continental-gt).
2. **Breakeryard**: This site allows you to search for new, used, and second-hand parts for your Bentley Continental GT. You can find more information [here](https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/bentley/continental-gt).
3. **Flying Spares**: They are a leading supplier of new, reconditioned, and recycled Bentley parts. You can explore their offerings [here](https://www.flyingspares.com/shop/bentley-parts/continental-gt-gtc.html).

For garage services in Northern Ireland, you can visit:

1. **Bentley Belfast**: As the premier Bentley dealer in Northern Ireland, they provide exceptional care and support for Bentley vehicles. You can find more details [here](https://www.charleshurstgroup.co.uk/bentley/contact-us/bentley-belfast).
2. **Approved Garages**: They have a network of garages that are experts in Bentley repairs, including servicing, MOTs, and diagnostics. You can find a nearby garage [here](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/bentley/).

These options should help you maintain your Bentley Continental GT in top condition.
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Racing
The Bentley Continental GT has a notable racing history. Bentley introduced the Continental GT3, a racing version of the Continental GT, in 2013. This car was designed specifically for motorsport and has competed in various racing events, including the Blancpain GT Series and the Pirelli World Challenge.

The Continental GT3 has achieved significant success on the track, showcasing Bentley's commitment to performance and engineering excellence. It has won several races and championships, further solidifying Bentley's reputation in the world of motorsport.
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Valuation
The value of a 2003 Bentley Continental GT can vary based on its condition, mileage, and any additional features or modifications. As of now, the used price range for a 2003 Bentley Continental GT is between £7,350 and £22,530 used prices - Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/bentley/continental-gt/coupe-2003/used-prices/) review - Parkers](https://www.parkers.co.uk/bentley/continental-gt/coupe-2003/used-review/).
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