Is there a Bently-chat? Was at the DMV a couple of weeks ago, and saw an 80's bently, with the upgraded bodywork. Looked like a late 90's model. Looking through some magazines (dupont), I can't believe how cheap some of these cars are. Seems most sell in the teens, or low teens. Seems like a lot of bang for the buck. Like anything else, I am sure its expensive if it breaks. How reliable are these things? Don't they have an american trans? Looks like a comfortable, cool ride, especially if you want to take the family for a ride! Thoughts? Here is one in the high 20's...http://www.dupontregistry.com/autos/Search/DRauSearchDetails.aspx?itemid=343409
From what I know, they are pretty solid and well built. But if something does break, bend over and grab your ankles.
They're pretty reliable. The things to look out for are brakes and suspension as these can be very expensive to get working properly. Engines and transmissions are pretty bulletproof. Body is not usually a problem, and doesn't require any specialist skills. Turbos are fun, the R handles has firmer suspension and handles better. Drove a Turbo R once, and it was like driving a ship. Column mounted shifter acted pretty much like a ships telegraph. Plant the throttle and there's a distant rumble from the engine room, the back of the craft sinks a little, then forward progress is attained.
I had a friend that used to work on one for a pretty high profile owner in South Florida. He said it was the most un-reliable of all his cars. He hated it.
Ken Ross knows these cars pretty well. You might want to pm him. Personally, I love the late 80's continental convertible and the mid-nineties Continental R. The later cars, which are more bulbous in shape, are, to my eyes, somewhat bulky looking, whereas the earlier ones look a little more narrow, and elegant. I'm not big on the bling, but they are gorgeous. Despite the fact that many of them can be had cheaply, I still think it's a rich man's car when it comes to repairs and maintenance. Of course, the great pre-war Bentleys are a completely different thing. The other car I like, though an unloved dog, is the Pininfarina Carmargue. Then again, I still have an Aston Lagonda on my short list of completely impractical big cars. Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
No offense to any owners but early 80s Bentleys and before were GORGEOUS, modern day designs are B-e-a-utiful but I think the 80s were a low point in Bentley's exterior design and styling Other than that I have no experience so I can't comment on reliability
