There is no doubt that the Bentley Continental is one of the most luxurious automobiles in the world. It comes in closed-coupe GT specification and in convertible form, which is probably the model we would choose, as it offers so much visual presence.
It goes without saying that we would also choose the powerful W12-engined model, although the V8 version introduced no too long ago is also a fine vehicle. But, at this level of capital outlay, if you have made the commitment, we feel that it makes sense to opt for the very best specification.
The W12 selection serves up a 467 kW main course, with a 3,7 second 0-100 km/h time and a top speed in the region of 333 k/h!
A vast number of colours and trim textures on offer
Bentley states that the standard palette offers a choice of 17 colours with up to 70 hues being available in what Bentley terms its “extended range”. There are also 15 different carpet options, 8 veneers for interior trim panels and 15 choice of interior trim hide.
Thus, one can see that creating a very individual looking Bentley Continental Convertible is not too difficult.
However, we should mention that Bentley South Africa cautions against choosing outlandish paint and upholstery combinations “just because it is possible”, as this could affect the car’s resale value. Talking of Bentley Continental resale values, AutoTrader current lists a total of 33 New and Used Bentley Continental models for sale.
Quite apart from colour and trim, there are a number of other boxes that can be ticked in the extensive options list.
Our top 6 options for a Continental Convertible
1. Wheels
Let’s start with the wheels, because wheel choice is perhaps the biggest single influence on a car’s overall presentation. Here we would go with the top 22-inch wheel which features what Bentley calls “5 Open Spokes.” Standard fitment is the 21-inch 5 Tri-Spoke wheel.
2. Roof texture
British Tweed is our choice, because it’s newly available, and so much care was taken by Bentley to achieve the correct interpretation of this famous finish. The overall effect is of a tan colour, but closer examination reveals a range of interwovencolours used to achieve the tweed effect.
3. Audio system
We would unhesitatingly choose the top of the range Naim 2 200 W audio system. It has 18 speakers and Active Bass transducers built into the front seats, and a choice of 8 sound modes. A Bang and Olufsen 1 500 W system is a slightly less expensive option.
4. Technical console finish
We love the new Technical Finish available for the console. This uses a technique common to the Swiss watch industry, known as Cotes de Geneve. It uses 0,6 mm aluminium machined to give a horizontal slat effect with a three-dimensional aspect.
5. Diamond upholstery pattern
Bentley refers to this upholstery pattern as “diamond within diamond quilting”, and it is part of the Mulliner Driving Specification package you can choose for your Continental, which also adds various other items. But we mention this here, as Bentley states that any owner can create a unique machine by choosing various options from the various trim packages available.
6. Technology Packs
There are two technology packages available for the Continental. The City Specification includes such items as hands-free boot opening, but we would choose the Touring Specification, which offers adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, a head up display, and night vision.