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Bentley Continental R: 1990s turbo GT, versions and what to check
The Bentley Continental R is a two-door turbo coupe that was introduced in 1991 as the first Bentley GT after a long hiatus. In this article, we look at the versions, engine, and what to check when buying a used Continental R.
Continental R in brief
The Continental R was a luxurious two-door coupe whose design stood out from the Bentley sedans of the time. It had a wide, low silhouette and was aimed at those who valued both comfort and power.
Today, it's one of the more accessible Bentley classics, but maintenance and repairs remain expensive. Buying one is usually the domain of a collector or enthusiast prepared for significant running costs.
Versions
The base version is the Continental R. Later came the Continental R Mulliner with more personalisation and luxury trim, and in 1996, the sportier Continental T with a shorter wheelbase and more powerful engine.
Later still came the Continental SC with a revised roof and other body changes. When shopping around, pay close attention to the exact version, as they differ and command different prices in the market.
Engine and transmission
The Continental R had a 6.75-litre turbo V8 engine based on the long-serving Rolls-Royce/Bentley unit. Its power is substantial, and its torque is enormous, so the car drives smoothly but quickly.
The transmission is a four-speed automatic. Check the exact power figures and version details against the specific car's documents.
What to check when buying a used Continental R
First, check the hydraulic system and suspension — these are the most expensive areas to repair on this car. Look out for leaks and deposits under the engine and underneath the car.
The engine and turbocharger are worth checking particularly carefully: look for smoke, oil leaks, and whether the engine runs smoothly when cold and hot. Inspect the gearbox and cooling system.
Check the leather and wood trim and electrical equipment — repairs can be expensive. Ask for a full service history and consult a Bentley classic car specialist.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Continental R
from 1991The main Continental version.
- 6.75-litre turbo V8
- Four-speed automatic gearbox
- Luxurious interior
Continental R Mulliner
later yearsA more individualised version.
- Often — more luxurious trim
- Additional Mulliner equipment
- Rare and sought-after
Continental T
from 1996A sportier, shorter-wheelbase version.
- More powerful engine
- Sportier driving
- Rarer version
Continental SC
from 1998Later coupé with revised roof.
- Redesigned roof
- Same basic technology
- Rarer version
Comparing versions
| Continental R | R Mulliner | Continental T | Continental SC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Luxurious GT | For enthusiasts of bespoke interiors | For sporty driving | For collectors of rare versions |
| Engine | 6.75-litre turbo V8 | 6.75-litre turbo V8 | 6.75-litre turbo V8, more powerful | 6.75-litre turbo V8 |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ | €€€ |
Most enthusiasts will find a well-maintained Continental R a great choice. Mulliner versions are rarer and more sought after, but their upkeep and parts are also pricier.
Pros
- Luxurious, spacious and smooth GT
- High-torque turbo V8
- Distinctive, striking design
- High collectability
Cons
- Very expensive maintenance and repairs
- Issues with hydraulic systems and turbochargers
- High fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
What engine does the Bentley Continental R have?
A 6.75-litre turbo V8 engine, renowned for its high torque and smooth ride.
How does the Continental T differ from the R?
The T is the sportier version with a shorter wheelbase and more powerful engine.
Is the Continental R expensive to maintain?
Yes. Repairs, hydraulics, and parts are costly, so it's important to buy a well-maintained car.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
