Current Market
Bentley Motors is a British luxury automobile manufacturer known for producing high-end, handcrafted vehicles with a focus on performance, elegance, and craftsmanship. Bentley has a rich heritage dating back to its founding in 1919 and has become synonymous with luxury and prestige. The Bentley market has been traditionally strong, catering to a niche segment of high-net-worth individuals and luxury car enthusiasts. Key factors contributing to the brand's success include:
Luxury and Exclusivity: Bentley cars are renowned for their opulent interiors, premium materials, and bespoke customisation options, offering customers a sense of luxury and exclusivity.
Performance and Engineering: Bentley vehicles combine powerful performance with refined engineering, offering a smooth and exhilarating driving experience.
Expanding Model Lineup: Bentley has expanded its model lineup over the years, offering various options ranging from sedans like the Flying Spur to luxury SUVs like the Bentayga, appealing to a broader range of customers.
Electric and Hybrid Offerings: Bentley has shown a commitment to sustainability by introducing hybrid and electric options in its lineup, addressing the growing demand for eco-friendly luxury vehicles.
Global Appeal: Bentley has a strong global presence and is well-received in various international markets, including Europe, North America, China, and the Middle East.
Are Bentleys a good investment?
Classic cars are great investments, but some are better than others. This is because some classic cars have a very low supply and a high demand. If you invest in a classic car that has lower demand, there is a risk that the value of your car may not increase as much as you hoped it would over time.
Bentley is a highly sought-after investment in the automotive world. Renowned for its classic appeal, this prestigious British brand commands a premium price due to its limited production and immense popularity.
Setting itself apart from other cars, Bentley's manufacturing process is notably intricate and meticulous, with a strong emphasis on hand-craftsmanship. The company deliberately limits the production of specific models, resulting in a scarcity of classic Bentleys, which, in turn, drives prices to soar over time.
Financing options
There are several financing options available to help you acquire a new or pre-owned Bentley.
One such option is hire purchase, which allows you to make monthly payments towards the car and provides the opportunity to buy the vehicle outright at the end of a fixed-term contract.
Next there is Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) which allows you to keep, exchange or return the vehicle at the end of the agreement. This product is the most flexible form of car finance.
Once obtained, refinance is always an option. Refinance is a form of equity release that unlocks cash from your vehicle. The released funds can be used for whatever purpose you wish.
Things to consider:
1. Can you afford it?
One should always keep in mind that the expenses associated with owning a high-performance vehicle such as a Bentley go far beyond the upfront cost. It's essential to take into account the recurring costs of maintenance, including items like tires and brake pads. Additionally, fuel consumption should be considered. With Bentley, you are limited in terms of price. It is a very exclusive and premium brand meaning the offerings all have a premium price tag attached.
2. Maintenance/Insurance/Additional Costs
Certain Bentley parts and maintenance expenses can be undeniably high, regardless of the measurement used. Owning a high-performance car entails going through tires approximately every 6,000 miles. While independent specialists can help mitigate costs to some extent, they too are subject to the notably steep prices of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
When insuring a Bentley, the premiums may be comparatively lower, but the long-term costs can escalate due to the scarcity of parts and the specialised level of care required. It's crucial to consider the likelihood of engine or gearbox rebuilds and necessary bodywork for older models, particularly those susceptible to rust prior to 1997. Undertaking such repairs is inevitably costly.
3.What to look for
The expenses associated with Bentley parts and servicing are undeniably high, regardless of any measuring standard. High-performance cars often require replacement of their tires every 6,000 miles or so. While independent specialists can offer some cost-saving measures, they are still constrained by the notably steep prices of OEM parts. Insuring a Bentley is generally very expensive, however, if you can afford the incredibly high price tag, then the insurance shouldn't seem too much.
4. Other things worth knowing
Getting behind the wheel of a Bentley offers a one-of-a-kind experience that often captivates its drivers. However, as the models transitioned to water-cooled engines in later generations, they became noticeably more manageable and easier to handle. As a general rule, it is reasonable to assume that the older the model you choose, the more challenging and thrilling its handling characteristics become.
Best Buys
Bentley Continental GT - Popular for a reason
Opt for a Continental GT equipped with either the V8 or W12 engine, and you'll revel in a minimum of 542 hp, with the formidable W12 option boasting an astonishing 650 hp. Beyond the raw power, you'll experience the epitome of grand tourers, unparalleled in its class.
The Bentley Continental GT boasts unapologetic extravagance from every angle. As the first car following Volkswagen's acquisition, it bore the responsibility of elevating the brand's reputation, and it surpassed expectations with grace. Exuding elegance, spaciousness, and exquisite craftsmanship, this car glides gracefully with a twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12 engine, embodying the ultimate realisation of a visionary's dream.
Bentley Mulsanne - Pure luxury
The Mulsanne offers a true taste of opulent driving, boasting not only impressive engine specifications but also exquisite exterior styling. The initial production of Mulsanne models spanned from 1980 to 1992, followed by a decade-long hiatus until its return in 2010, ultimately concluding its run in 2020.
Designed as the epitome of an executive car, the Mulsanne caters to CEOs and those living a lavish lifestyle. It embodies all the luxurious features one could desire on wheels, delivering a wealth of amenities. With over 100 exterior colors to choose from, customers can tailor their Mulsanne to fulfill any luxury desire.
