Bentley Continental GTC V8

The third-generation Continental GTC V8 makes a strong case for being the driver's pick of the range. Where the W12 excels at effortless, near-silent propulsion, the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 — 542 bhp, 0–62 mph in 3.9 seconds, 198 mph flat out — brings a more tactile, vocal character without sacrificing any of the GTC's core competence. This 2020 example is finished in Onyx Metallic and carries one of the more thoroughly specified options lists you'll encounter: Mulliner Driving Specification, Continental Blackline Specification, Carbon Fibre Styling Specification, Centenary Specification, Bentley Dynamic Ride, and Touring Specification are all present, alongside 22-inch five-spoke alloys in black, Beluga leather with Hotspur contrast stitching, and red-painted brake calipers.

At 13,433 miles from new, it sits well within the expected usage profile for a car of this age and type. Full Bentley service history is in place, and paint protection film has been applied to the front end — a considered addition that speaks to how the car has been kept. UK-supplied from new, it presents with a coherent, darkened aesthetic that suits the Onyx exterior well.

With the fabric roof lowered, the V8's exhaust note — deeper and more expressive than the W12 — adds genuine theatre to the open-air experience. The three-chamber air suspension and Bentley Dynamic Ride system manage the balance between wafting cruiser and engaged GT with notable competence, and the AWD drivetrain provides year-round confidence. For those drawn to the GTC formula but wanting something slightly more alert in character, the V8 remains the more rewarding mechanical proposition.