BENTLEY CONTINENTAL Buying Guide & Reliability (1953-2018)

The Bentley Continental is a luxury grand tourer that has captivated automotive enthusiasts since its inception in 1953. With a production span that extends to 2018, this model has seen numerous iterations, reflecting the brand's commitment to elegance and performance.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL Overview

The Bentley Continental is a luxury grand tourer that has captivated automotive enthusiasts since its inception in 1953. With a production span that extends to 2018, this model has seen numerous iterations, reflecting the brand's commitment to elegance and performance. A total of 326 registration plates have been recorded for the Continental, showcasing its enduring appeal in the UK market.

Throughout its production years, the Bentley Continental has maintained a high MOT pass rate of 91.0%. This statistic highlights the vehicle's reliability and the quality of engineering that Bentley is renowned for. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common failures. The most frequent issues reported include tyre problems (21 instances), lighting (11), and suspension (11), indicating areas where owners may need to focus their maintenance efforts.

In terms of fuel type, all recorded Bentleys in this model are petrol-powered, aligning with the brand's performance-oriented ethos. The colour distribution of the Continental reveals a preference for classic shades, with black (89), blue (71), and silver (57) being the most popular choices among owners.

The year distribution of the Bentley Continental shows a significant number of vehicles from the 2000s, particularly in 2007 (37) and 2008 (32). This suggests a strong presence of this model in the luxury car market during that period. Additionally, the average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 2,204 miles, indicating that many owners use their Bentleys for leisurely drives rather than daily commutes.

As of the latest data, 231 of the registered vehicles are taxed, while 48 remain untaxed and 47 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for potential buyers and collectors alike.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and while every effort has been made to ensure the information is current, it is advisable to verify details independently.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The Bentley Continental, a luxury grand tourer, has a commendable reliability record, reflected in its impressive MOT pass rate of 91.0%. This statistic indicates that the majority of these vehicles successfully meet the required safety and environmental standards during their annual inspections.

With a total of 3,929 MOT tests conducted, the Bentley Continental demonstrates a solid performance in maintaining its roadworthiness. The model spans a wide range of years, from 1953 to 2018, with 326 registered vehicles currently on the road. This longevity speaks to the brand's commitment to quality and durability.

However, like any vehicle, the Bentley Continental is not without its common issues. The most frequent reasons for MOT failures include tyre problems, which accounted for 21 failures, followed by lighting and suspension issues, each contributing 11 failures. Other notable categories include miscellaneous failures (9) and exhaust and emissions concerns (5).

In terms of fuel type, all registered Bentleys in this model are petrol-powered, which is typical for luxury vehicles in this segment. The colour distribution shows a preference for classic shades, with black (89), blue (71), and silver (57) being the most popular choices among owners.

It is important to note that while the data presented here is based on the latest available statistics, individual vehicle performance may vary. Factors such as maintenance history, driving habits, and regional conditions can all influence reliability and MOT outcomes.

In summary, the Bentley Continental stands out for its reliability and strong MOT performance, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a luxury vehicle with a proven track record.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering the purchase of a used Bentley Continental, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With a total of 326 registration plates recorded, this luxury vehicle has a rich history spanning from 1953 to 2018, making it essential to check the specific model year and its associated features.

First, review the vehicle's MOT history. The Bentley Continental boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 91.0%, indicating that most vehicles in this range are well-maintained. However, it is crucial to investigate any common failures that may arise. The most frequent issues reported include tyres (21 failures), lighting (11 failures), and suspension (11 failures). Understanding these common pitfalls can help you negotiate repairs or avoid problematic models.

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for a Bentley Continental is approximately 2,204 miles, which is relatively low compared to standard vehicles. A lower mileage can often indicate less wear and tear, but always verify the odometer reading against service records.

Additionally, check the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the 326 registered Bentleys, 231 are currently taxed, while 48 are untaxed and 47 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). A taxed vehicle is generally a better option, as it indicates that the owner has maintained compliance with legal requirements.

Finally, pay attention to the vehicle's colour and condition. The most common colours for the Bentley Continental include black (89), blue (71), and silver (57). A well-maintained exterior can often reflect the overall care the vehicle has received.

Always remember to conduct a thorough inspection and consider obtaining a professional assessment before finalising your purchase. Data accuracy is subject to change, so verify all information with reliable sources.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The Bentley Continental, a luxury grand tourer, has been a staple in the automotive world since its inception in 1953. With a total of 326 registration plates recorded, this model has seen a wide range of years, from the early 1950s to 2018. The average annual mileage for these vehicles is approximately 2,204 miles, which is relatively low compared to standard vehicles, reflecting their use as luxury cars.

In terms of running costs, the Bentley Continental boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 91%. However, it is essential to be aware of common failures that may arise. The most frequent issues reported include tyre problems (21 instances), lighting failures (11), and suspension issues (11). Other categories such as exhaust and emissions also account for 5 failures, indicating areas where owners should remain vigilant.

Fuel type distribution shows that all recorded Bentleys are petrol-powered, aligning with the brand's performance-oriented ethos. The colour distribution of these vehicles reveals a preference for classic shades, with black being the most popular (89 units), followed by blue (71), silver (57), grey (38), and white (28).

Tax status data indicates that 231 of the vehicles are currently taxed, while 48 are untaxed and 47 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for potential buyers considering the ongoing costs associated with ownership.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the most current market conditions. Always verify details with reliable sources before making any decisions.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the Bentley Continental, you may also want to explore other luxury vehicles that offer similar prestige and performance. Here are a few alternative models to consider:

Aston Martin DB11: Known for its stunning design and powerful engine options, the DB11 is a strong contender in the luxury sports car segment. With a focus on performance and comfort, it provides a thrilling driving experience that rivals the Bentley Continental.

Rolls-Royce Wraith: The Wraith combines elegance with a powerful V12 engine, making it a perfect alternative for those who appreciate luxury and performance. Its bespoke interior and advanced technology make it a worthy competitor to the Continental.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe: This model offers a blend of luxury and cutting-edge technology. The S-Class Coupe is renowned for its comfort and advanced safety features, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-end driving experience.

Porsche Panamera: For those who desire a sporty feel without sacrificing luxury, the Panamera is an ideal option. It offers a range of powerful engines and a well-appointed interior, appealing to drivers who appreciate performance alongside comfort.

When considering these alternatives, it's important to note that the Bentley Continental has a high MOT pass rate of 91.0%, indicating its reliability. However, common failures in this model include issues with tyres, lighting, and suspension, which are worth considering when evaluating your options.

Ultimately, the choice of vehicle will depend on your personal preferences and requirements. Each of these alternatives offers unique features and benefits that may align with your expectations for a luxury vehicle.

Data accuracy is based on the latest available statistics and may vary. Always conduct thorough research and consider test driving multiple models to find the best fit for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What years were the Bentley Continental produced?

The Bentley Continental has been produced across a wide range of years, from 1953 to 2018. Notable production years include 1990, 2001, and 2015, among others.

How many Bentley Continental vehicles are currently registered in the UK?

As of now, there are 326 registered Bentley Continental vehicles in the UK.

What is the MOT pass rate for the Bentley Continental?

The MOT pass rate for the Bentley Continental stands at an impressive 91.0%, indicating a high level of reliability among these vehicles.

What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures during MOT tests for the Bentley Continental include issues with tyres (21 failures), lighting (11 failures), and suspension (11 failures). Other categories include exhaust and emissions (5 failures) and miscellaneous issues (9 failures).

What fuel type does the Bentley Continental use?

All registered Bentley Continental vehicles in the UK are petrol-powered.

What colours are most popular for the Bentley Continental?

The most popular colours for the Bentley Continental include black (89 vehicles), blue (71 vehicles), and silver (57 vehicles). Other colours such as grey and white also have a notable presence.

How many MOT tests have been conducted for the Bentley Continental?

A total of 3,929 MOT tests have been conducted for the Bentley Continental, reflecting its active presence on the roads.

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult official sources.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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