Even in Malaysia with high import duties, the Bentley luxury car is scrapped after 20 years
Bentleys often experience extreme depreciation, sometimes losing a high percentage of their value 10 to 15 years after leaving the factory making them relatively affordable to purchase, yet incredibly expensive to maintain.
Bentleys are exceptionally expensive to maintain due to their bespoke, hand-crafted engineering, high-cost materials (specialised leather, wood, metal), and complex, high-performance German powertrains (yes, Bentley was sold to the VW Group decades ago and so uses VW group engines) that often require engine-out labor for minor repairs. Specialised labor, limited aftermarket parts, and mandatory premium dealership service further drive up costs.
Common issues like failed air suspension, multiple oil leaks, and complex electronics, combined with specialised labor, result in significant repair bills. Plus. Modern Bentleys feature intricate, interconnected electrical systems, advanced twin-turbo engines (like the very desirable W12 versions), and air suspension systems that are prone to ageing and malfunction.
So, why are Bentley cars being scrapped after just 18 to 22 years on the road (even Jaguar and Rolls Royce cars have used car value)? Well, many components are hand-assembled or bespoke, meaning they cannot be easily repaired or replaced with generic parts.
Did you know that Bentley models like the Continental GT use 6.0L W12 engines that are densely packed, requiring engine removal for simple tasks like replacing starter motors or turbos.
Then even simple tasks like an engine oil changes can cost up to more than RM1,500 and often requiring specialised technicians.
The beautiful (when new) Interiors feature genuine leather, real wood, and high quality polished metal that, while luxurious, require specialised care and are expensive to replace.
The 18 to 22 year old models suffer from complex, outdated electronics and high-cost, fragile parts (e.g., water-cooled alternators) that lead to expensive repairs over time.
Now, you know why owners rather scrap them for parts (maybe as low as RM10k) over trying to sell them (maybe RM40K if running) and why you see some units sitting in used car dealers rotting away as buyers choose to ignore them.
At its launch in 2005 this is what Bentley had to say about this ‘Flying Spur’.
The introduction of the Bentley Continental Flying Spur marks the next step in the revival of Britain’s most revered automotive marque. Following on from the hugely successful launch of its sister car, the Continental GT coupé, this stunning new car will change people’s perceptions of what performance, comfort and style from a four-door grand tourer means.
And the unveiling of the Continental Flying Spur is not the end of the story. Bentley remains committed to a thrilling future model programme, one that will reflect the core values of the company, ensuring its public perception is not diluted by over-production or unnecessary niche products.
“The purity of our brand is in clear focus now,” says Adrian Hallmark, member of the board, marketing. “We can behave as an independent company because the economics of our business plan are sound and we don’t have to compromise our products because of short-term financial decisions. We are that rare thing in the British automotive world – a car company that is expanding and we have done so by producing models that appeal to a demanding and growing customer group.
“Our aim is to restore Bentley to the position it once owned – the creator of definitive British Grand Tourers – and the Bentley Continental Flying Spur is our next step in the fulfilment of that ambition.”
