Bentley Flying Spur buying guide
Stepping into the world of luxury motoring is a thrilling experience. Finding the perfect luxury saloon means looking for a vehicle that perfectly balances thrilling performance with unmatched comfort. If you want a car that makes every journey feel like a special occasion, you are in the right place.
We know that navigating the premium car market can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. There are so many options, specifications, and details to consider. That is exactly why we have put together this friendly guide. We want to share the joy of finding a car that simply takes your breath away.
The Bentley Flying Spur is a masterpiece of British engineering and craftsmanship. It offers an incredible mix of power, refinement, and elegance. Let us walk you through everything you need to know about getting behind the wheel of one of these spectacular machines.
Why Buy a Used Bentley Flying Spur?
Choosing a Used Bentley Flying Spur is a brilliant way to experience top-tier luxury without the initial depreciation hit of a brand-new model. You get to enjoy the same whisper-quiet cabin, phenomenal engine power, and hand-crafted details. It is the ultimate statement vehicle for a fraction of the original cost.
Imagine gliding down the motorway in supreme comfort, surrounded by premium leather and rich wood veneers. Whether you are driving across the country or simply commuting, this car transforms ordinary trips into extraordinary experiences. It is an investment in pure, unadulterated motoring joy.
Is the Bentley Flying Spur a good car? (Overview)
Absolutely. The Bentley Flying Spur is widely regarded as one of the finest luxury saloons available today. It seamlessly bridges the gap between a high-performance sports car and a chauffeur-driven limousine. The sheer presence of the vehicle on the road is enough to turn heads wherever you go.
If you love the classic saloon body style, this model represents the absolute pinnacle of that category. It is a car built for those who appreciate the finer things in life, offering an incredibly smooth ride, cutting-edge technology, and a cabin that feels more like a luxury lounge than a vehicle interior.
Generations / Trims Breakdown
First Generation (2005–2013)
Originally known as the Continental Flying Spur, this generation introduced the world to Bentley's modern four-door vision. It featured a monstrous W12 engine and standard all-wheel drive. It is a fantastic entry point into the brand, offering massive power and classic styling.
Second Generation (2013–2019)
Dropping the 'Continental' tag, the second generation brought sharper styling and a more refined ride. Bentley introduced a powerful yet slightly more economical V8 option alongside the W12. The interior received significant technology upgrades, making it much more modern and user-friendly.
Third Generation (2019–Present)
The current iteration is a technological marvel. It rides on a completely new platform, offering improved agility thanks to all-wheel steering. The design is bolder, featuring the iconic retractable Flying B mascot. This generation also introduced hybrid powertrains for improved efficiency.
Performance and Powertrain Specifications
When looking at a Bentley Flying Spur for sale, the engine choice is crucial. The legendary 6.0-litre W12 engine delivers relentless, surging acceleration that pushes you back into your seat. It is an engineering triumph that offers a deeply satisfying driving experience.
For those who prefer a slightly lighter, more agile feel, the 4.0-litre V8 is spectacular. It provides an engaging, sporty exhaust note and phenomenal pace. More recently, the V6 hybrid option has arrived, allowing for silent, zero-emission city driving without sacrificing the brand's trademark grand touring capabilities.
Customisation Features and Options
One of the greatest joys of buying this vehicle is the sheer variety of customisation. When browsing the market, you will notice that almost no two cars are exactly alike. Original owners had access to a seemingly endless palette of paint colours, leather hides, and interior veneers.
Look out for models featuring the Mulliner Driving Specification, which adds gorgeous diamond-quilted seats and sportier alloy wheels. The rotating dashboard display on newer models is another fantastic feature, allowing you to switch between a digital touchscreen, classic analogue dials, or a clean wood veneer.
Comparative Analysis with Rival Luxury Cars
The premium market is highly competitive. A key rival is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which is often praised for its cutting-edge technology. However, the Bentley offers a more bespoke, hand-crafted feel that the mass-produced Mercedes simply cannot match.
Another notable competitor is from Rolls-Royce. While a Rolls-Royce leans entirely into silent, cloud-like isolation, the Flying Spur offers a much more engaging driving experience. It is a luxury car that you will genuinely want to drive yourself, rather than sitting in the back.
What to Look for When Buying
Inspection Checklist
- Service History: Ensure the car has a comprehensive, on-time service record from a specialist.
- Air Suspension: Listen for knocking sounds and check that the car raises and lowers smoothly without warning lights.
- Interior Electronics: Test every single button, screen, and seat massage function, as luxury electronics can be pricey to fix.
- Tyres and Brakes: These are heavy, fast cars. Check that the brake discs and premium tyres have plenty of life left in them.
- Bodywork: Look closely for any signs of poor paint matching or uneven panel gaps indicating previous accident damage.
Summary of Ownership Costs and Considerations
It is important to be transparent about running costs. The Bentley Flying Spur price is just the beginning; these are complex, high-performance machines that require proper maintenance. Fuel consumption, particularly on the W12 models, will be high, and insurance premiums will reflect the vehicle's immense value.
However, if you budget correctly and perhaps explore finance options, running one of these magnificent cars is incredibly rewarding. Regular preventative maintenance by a qualified specialist is the secret to keeping your luxury saloon running perfectly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Bentley Flying Spur?
The latest third-generation model measures approximately 5.31 metres (5,316 mm) in length. This substantial size ensures incredible legroom for rear passengers and gives the car its commanding presence on the road. You will definitely want to measure your garage before bringing one home!
How much does a Bentley Flying Spur cost?
A brand-new model can easily exceed £200,000 depending on the level of customisation. However, you can find a high-quality used Bentley Flying Spur for sale starting from around £40,000 for older generations, going up to £150,000+ for nearly-new, highly specified third-generation models.
Is the Bentley Flying Spur reliable?
Yes, they are generally very reliable, especially when properly maintained. They share many underlying mechanical components with premium Audi and Porsche models, which benefits their overall durability. However, due to their complexity, any repairs that are required can be expensive.
How do you open the Bentley Flying Spur’s boot manually?
If the battery dies, you can open the boot (trunk) manually using the emergency key blade hidden inside your key fob. The physical keyhole is typically located discretely near the rear number plate or under the boot lid lip, depending on the specific model year of your car.
