Bentley Continental GT Convertible (06 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 16 October 2008
With coupé and saloon versions of the Continental launched in 2003 and 2005 respectively, it was inevitable that Bentley would chop the top from the Continental to make a convertible. The GTC uses the same chassis as the GT coupé, but with the addition of the folding roof mechanism and extra bracing to replace the lost strength, it weighs more. Even at 2.5 tonnes though, the GTC provides near supercar performance thanks to its twin turbo 12-cylinder engine which it shares, together with the four-wheel drive system, with its siblings. From 2009 the weight became less of an issue for the high-performance Speed version - supposedly capable of 195mph with the roof down!
4.5 out of 5

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4 out of 5

Safety

Driver and passenger front airbags and side airbags are fitted as standard but unfortunately chopping off the Continental GT's roof means the GTC does without curtain airbags. But seatbelt pretensioners are present as are roll hoops that pop up if the car turns over and an electronic stability system as well as an electronic brake force distribution that apportions braking power to the wheel that needs it most. There is no firm data available to prove the Bentley's crash safety though because it hasn't been subjected to a Euro NCAP test.

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4 out of 5

Reliability

As products of the Volkswagen empire, all Bentley's must undergo the same strict quality control tests as their stablemates, Audi and Lamborghini, with the result that the GTC has a good reputation for quality. The only worry is over bodged aftermarket tuning kits which boost the W12's power but can burn out pistons.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

No problems reported.

Other

No problems reported.