A history lesson…
Bentley chose to give the Continental GT an overhaul in 2006 when it released the GTC version, although the press was first to see this model when it swanned onto the scene a year earlier at the Geneva Motor Show.
While the Bentley Continental GTC shares many technical elements with the standard Continental GT, its soft top status makes it feel airier and more relaxed than its coupe cousin.
In 2009 the GTC Speed was introduced, upping the top speed to 200mph and delivering 600bhp, which is 48 more than in the standard model.
A further convertible model was introduced to the Continental range in 2010, this time with the Supersport moniker and an extra 21bhp in tow, bringing the total available to 621bhp.
Bang for your buck
With the roof down, you could argue that the Bentley Continental GTC is the best looking car in its family, outdoing the bullish Continental GT and the saloon stylings of the Flying Spur. It is a car to be noticed in; more so when you are cruising along with your hair in the wind.
It takes a little under 25 seconds for the Continental GTC's roof to fold away or rise elegantly up to shield you from the elements. This is fairly fast, although not best in class, but you can hardly complain when you consider the workmanship and quality of the materials used in its construction.
The GTC is immaculate on the inside and out, with contemporary technology and classic good looks going hand in hand.
What you'll pay
You'll be hard pressed to find one of the sportier GTC iterations, but there are a few standard models knocking around for those who have the cash to splash.
£60,000 will net you an original 2006 model with a decent number of miles on the clock, although you can add £10,000 to that figure if you are after a pristine example.
Be aware that any modifications carried out to the Bentley Continental GTC after it rolled out of the factory should count against its used value, not add to it, so use this to your advantage when bargaining.
What to check
There is little to report in terms of reliability issues as the GTC is a very well built car. Watch out for wear and tear on the brakes, which can take a bit of a pummelling due to the sheer size, weight and speed of the car.
If the vehicle in question has a low mileage then it will probably have been used sparingly, which can cause battery issues. Also give the roof a good going over, because aesthetic or mechanical damage to it can be expensive to amend.
Parts
The Bentley Continental GTC offers a mixed bag in terms of parts pricing. Common components, like the starter motor, will set you back £159 thanks to their origins in the VW family, while Bentley's own headlamp units are rather expensive at £925 each.
How it drives
The Continental GTC has a four wheel drive system, but more of the power is put out via the rear wheels to give it a sporty feel without compromising its grip and power in the wet. The automatic gearbox works well on its own, but you can change gears using paddles if you want a racier experience.
